Publications

The energy-water nexus and the role of carbon capture and sequestration

Malczynski, Leonard A.; Kobos, Peter H.; Castillo, Cesar R.

There is growing evidence of human induced climate change. Various legislation has been introduced to cap carbon emissions. Fossil powered electric generation is responsible for over 30% of the U.S. emissions. Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS) technology is water and energy intensive. The project's objectives are: (1) Explore water consumption implications associated with full deployment of a Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) future; (2) Identify vulnerable areas in which water resources may be too limited to enable full deployment of CCS technology; and (3) Implement project with the cooperation of the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) and DOE Office of Policy and International Affairs. Thermoelectric consumption projected to increase by 3.7 BGD due to CCS by 2035, a doubling over 2004. This increase is equivalent to projected growth in consumption by all other sectors. Demand is not equally distributed across the U.S. 18.5% of this future demand is located in watershed prone to surface and groundwater stress. 30% of current and future demand is located in watersheds prone to drought stress.