Stockholm Norvik Port could become central logistics node for captured CO2 in East Sweden, study finds

By establishing a logistics node for captured carbon dioxide at Stockholm Norvik Port, it is possible to create an efficient and sustainable transport chain for carbon dioxide from several potential emitters in East Sweden.

This was revealed in the final report of the feasibility study of the Norvik Infrastructure CCS East Sweden (NICE project).

As informed, the report found that conditions are favorable from a logistical, technical and operational point of view to successfully establish a central logistics node for carbon dioxide in East Sweden at Stockholm Norvik Port.

The port’s infrastructure is efficient and there are good development opportunities in terms of infrastructure, quays and areas in and around the harbour. Regardless of which operation generates the emissions, the carbon dioxide can be transported to the new node for intermediate storage before being transported by large ships to its final destination.

“It is extremely pleasing that Stockholm Norvik Port has the potential to be an important part of the solution to achieve national, regional and the City of Stockholm’s own climate goals. We are now continuing to work on the goal of establishing a hub for an efficient logistics chain and enabling CCS on a large scale in East Mid-Sweden,” Jens Holm, Chairman of the Board of Ports of Stockholm, commented.

Achieving key climate targets, such as Sweden’s goal of net zero emissions by 2045, requires negative emissions. Negative emissions can be achieved by, for example, cogeneration plants burning biogenic feedstock capturing the carbon dioxide and storing it in the bedrock. The CCS sites that are leading the way and are considered to have the greatest near-term potential are located in the North Sea. Therefore, a functioning and efficient logistics chain is required to enable large-scale CCS in East Mid-Sweden.

The NICE project is led by Ports of Stockholm and the feasibility study was conducted in collaboration with Stockholm Exergi, Mälarenergi, Söderenergi, Vattenfall, Heidelberg Materials, Nordkalk and Plagazi. The logistics infrastructure will not only be open to participants in the NICE project, but also to other third-party carbon emitters.

Further work will focus on the detailed design of the node in close dialogue with suppliers and project participants. Further work aims to facilitate investment decisions for all stakeholders in the value chain.

Ports of Stockholm works actively, long-term and strategically for sustainable port operations and shipping. Environmental work is an integral part of the day-to-day operations and follows the City of Stockholm’s goal for a climate-positive Stockholm by 2030 and a fossil-free Stockholm by 2040.

At a round table debate organized by Danish Shipping and Bellona in March 2024, it was concluded that ports and the maritime sector are expected to play a significant role in scaling up carbon capture and storage (CCS) in Europe and meeting the energy transition targets.

As part of the EU Carbon Management Strategy, 280 million tons of CO2 must be captured if the EU is to meet the ambitious target of a 90% reduction of GHG emissions by 2040. Ports, and the maritime sector will be an integral part of transporting CO2 in CCS processes.