Roadmaps for CO₂ transport and domestic storage systems

As part of the ACHIEVE consortium, this project develops roadmaps and scenarios for CO₂ transport and storage systems for achieving Switzerland’s net-zero target. The SWEET-funded ACHIEVE consortium, led by Empa, brings together research and industry partners to develop scalable solutions for hard-to-abate sectors and define actionable pathways toward climate neutrality.

The project addresses key uncertainties around the feasibility of domestic CO₂ storage in Switzerland, including capacity, cost, location, and governance. It develops a national roadmap for CO₂ storage infrastructure based on regulatory analysis, international experience, and stakeholder exchange with industry partners. This includes exploring organisational and financial models as well as outlining the steps required to scale storage infrastructure towards multi-megaton capacity by mid-century.

In parallel, it develops scenarios for an adaptive CO₂ transport network based on interviews with emitters and infrastructure operators. A dynamic database of Swiss point-source emitters is established to capture capture plans, logistical constraints, and potential synergies. This enables identification of regional clusters and coordination opportunities, and supports flexible transport solutions that can evolve over time, including medium-term options such as truck and rail.

Finally, integrated system scenarios combine CO₂ capture, transport, and storage perspectives to assess feasibility, costs, governance requirements, and timing. These scenarios also consider interactions with other mitigation options such as biomass use and material efficiency measures, providing a comprehensive view of possible transition pathways.