Why is this research needed?

This project focuses on aiding the safe storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) in old oil and gas reservoirs to help combat climate change. These reservoirs, which were once used for extracting oil and gas, are attractive for storing CO2 because they already have the necessary infrastructure and geological knowledge. However, there are concerns about old, decommissioned wells (known as legacy wells) in these areas, which can potentially compromise containment if their integrity fails, undermining the storage effort and causing environmental impacts. Current methods for assessing the risk posed to containment from these wells have limitations. They often rely on uncertain well data and complex models that are resource-intensive and difficult to use widely. This project aims to develop a simpler, more practical tool to evaluate the risk of CO2 leakage from legacy wells. By making the model less complex but still effective, it will be easier to use and provide more accurate risk assessments. This tool will help ensure the long-term security of CO2 storage sites, support environmental sustainability, and contribute to achieving emission reduction goals. The project aligns with the UKCCSRC’s research priorities on carbon storage and aims to improve decision-making related to the management of legacy wells in these storage projects.

What is this research investigating?

1. Improve risk assessments and inform decision-making related to legacy wells in GCS projects.
2. Develop a simplistic modelling tool to evaluate CO2 leakage risks from legacy wells within or near storage complexes.
3. Simplify the risk evaluation process by reducing dependency on complex numerical models and quantify uncertainties associated with CO2 leakage risks more effectively.
4. Ensure the developed tool is user-friendly and computationally efficient for widespread application.

What does the research hope to achieve?

This project will benefit the CCS research and deployment community involved in risk management and evaluation of legacy wells in the UK and abroad.