The expansion of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in Europe continues to gain momentum. Burckhardt Compression announced it has secured a strategic order to supply compression systems for the first industrial-scale liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO₂) conveyor, which will support operations at the Northern Lights project in Norway.
The contract represents a significant step forward for the carbon capture industry, as it reflects the transition from pilot projects to commercial infrastructures capable of handling large volumes of captured industrial emissions.
Maritime CO₂ transport promotes decarbonization.
As European industries seek to reduce their emissions, the transport of liquefied CO₂ is emerging as a crucial solution to connect industrial facilities with permanent storage centers.
The new vessels, specifically designed to transport LCO₂, enable the safe and efficient movement of carbon dioxide between different countries and regions. This capability is particularly relevant in areas where constructing dedicated pipeline networks is not technically or economically feasible.
Likewise, the development of larger capacity vessels favors the creation of a standardized infrastructure that facilitates the connection of multiple industrial emitters with shared storage centers.
Compressors for low-carbon value chains
The technological solution selected for the project incorporates K-Laby compressors from Burckhardt Compression, equipment recognized for its operational flexibility, energy efficiency and resistance in marine applications.
The company has leveraged decades of experience in liquefied gas systems to adapt this technology to the new needs of the low-carbon economy. Thanks to these features, the compressors play a vital role in the safe and reliable handling of CO₂ during transport operations.
Andreas Brautsch, President of the Systems Division at Burckhardt Compression, highlighted that industrial CO₂ transport is being reinforced as a fundamental element for the commercial viability of CCS projects and for the development of infrastructure capable of supporting long-term climate goals.
Northern Lights expands its CO₂ storage
Northern Lights has become one of the most important initiatives for emissions management in Europe. The project operates as the first cross-border service for the transport and permanent storage of CO₂, allowing different industries to access decarbonization solutions without needing to develop their own infrastructure.
The captured carbon is transported to a terminal located in Øygarden, on the Norwegian coast, from where it is subsequently injected into geological formations located under the North Sea for permanent storage.
After starting commercial operations in 2025, Northern Lights is currently working on expanding its transport and storage capabilities to respond to the growing interest from industrial sectors seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.
A further step towards the consolidation of CCS in Europe
The incorporation of new CO₂ transporters at an industrial scale represents an important step forward in strengthening carbon capture and storage as a decarbonization tool.
With this order, Burckhardt Compression strengthens its involvement in the development of low-emission infrastructure and contributes to the growth of a logistics network capable of facilitating the safe transport of captured carbon between industrial emitters and permanent storage sites. The initiative also reinforces the role of specialized shipping as a key pillar for expanding the commercial deployment of CCS technologies in Europe.
Source: Globenewswire
Photo: Shutterstock
