Two technical studies commissioned by the NSTA evaluate new CO₂ pipelines and the reuse of offshore infrastructure to transport CO₂.
The North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) he published two studies aimed at solving the main technical challenges of carbon dioxide transport via marine pipelines. The documents aim to support the growth of the carbon storage industry in the UK.
The reports were prepared by Penspen and DNV both are analyzing options for developing CO₂ transport networks for carbon capture and storage projects.
The first study examines newly constructed systems, the second assesses the possibility of adapting existing hydrocarbon pipelines to transport carbon dioxide.
CO₂ pipelines for new offshore infrastructure
Penspen’s report studies the capabilities needed to build systems of marine CO₂ pipelines on a large scale. Technical aspects evaluated include contaminant management, fracture control, long-distance subsea connections, flow measurement and modeling.
According to the study, there are no major barriers related to equipment availability; however, the industry still has little experience in operating complete systems offshore transport of CO₂ on a large scale.
For this reason, developers rely heavily on experience gained in oil and gas pipelines, this experience must be complemented with models, tests, and processes specific to the behavior of carbon dioxide.
Furthermore, Penspen believes it is necessary to define more precisely the integration and validation requirements for CCS systems. Technical, commercial, and regulatory interfaces must also be coordinated.
Addressing these issues will allow for the establishment of best practices for the design of CO₂ transport infrastructure in the United Kingdom.
DNV evaluates the reuse of marine gas pipelines
The second study was developed by DNV and focuses on the reuse of offshore hydrocarbon pipelines the document presents a methodology for assessing whether an existing pipeline can be used to transport CO₂. It also includes two case studies that demonstrate how to apply the technical criteria.
DNV concludes that reusing marine infrastructure can be technically feasible and more economical than building new facilities.
However, each asset must be analyzed individually, operators must review its condition, materials, capacity, and the conditions planned for the new service.
One of the most important factors is ductile fracture propagation, this phenomenon can affect pipelines transporting dense-phase CO₂ and must be considered during integrity assessment.
According to the report, some pipelines could operate with dense-phase carbon dioxide, while others could be used for gas-phase transport. When neither alternative is suitable, a new pipeline will need to be installed.
Reuse can reduce costs and timeframes
According to NSTA, these studies provide a technical basis for license holders, future operators, and supply chain companies. Ernie Lamza, NSTA’s technology manager, noted that the documents will help developers evaluate both pipeline reuse and the installation of new infrastructure.
Penspen, for his part, highlighted that the United Kingdom can leverage decades of experience in oil and gas engineering to expand its capacity to carbon capture and storage.
Similarly, DNV believes that the conversion of marine pipelines can reduce capital expenditures and shorten the timelines of CCUS projects.
Reuse would also allow for the utilization of existing assets in the North Sea, however, its application will depend on integrity studies and a proper assessment of the risks associated with CO₂ transport.
UK expands its carbon storage strategy
The reports are part of a series of initiatives developed by the NSTA to strengthen the UK’s carbon storage sector. The agency published new guidelines on July 16, 2026, for the safe, efficient, and transparent implementation of storage projects. In September 2025, it also presented its initial management expectations for the sector.
In addition, the UK launched its second round of carbon storage licenses in December 2025, bids received as of March 2026 are still under evaluation. This process could expand the area available for geological storage projects and increase the demand for infrastructure to transport CO₂ from industrial facilities to offshore storage facilities.
Studies by Penspen and DNV provide technical criteria for deciding when to build new pipelines and when to reuse existing assets. This analysis will be crucial for developing safe transport networks compatible with the growth of the British CCS industry.
Fountain: World Pipelines
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