Carbon TerraVault, a subsidiary of California Resources Corporation (CRC), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Cement Company of California to support the Lebec Net Zero project—California’s first carbon-neutral cement facility.
Under the agreement, Carbon TerraVault will develop transportation and sequestration solutions for up to 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually from National Cement’s Lebec plant in Kern County.
Captured emissions will be transported and permanently stored in Carbon TerraVault’s underground reservoirs, contributing to California’s industrial decarbonization goals.
The Lebec Net Zero project will integrate carbon capture technology, use locally sourced biomass fuel, and produce limestone calcined clay cement (LC3).
This initiative aligns with Kern County’s carbon management strategy, creating economic growth, jobs, and tax revenue.
Relevant: Carbon TerraVault Secures CO2 Storage Permits From EPA In California
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has selected the project for funding under the Industrial Demonstrations Program, committing up to $500 million in matching funds.
Operations are expected to begin in 2031, pending regulatory approvals.
Francisco Leon, President and CEO of Carbon TerraVault, emphasized the partnership’s importance: “Achieving carbon neutrality in the cement industry requires bold action, and this partnership is a critical step.”
Eric Holard, CEO of National Cement, added, “We are making a significant investment because we believe in creating a cleaner future and bringing innovation to domestic manufacturing.”
With this MoU, Carbon TerraVault’s total carbon capture and sequestration projects now approach 9 million metric tons per year, reinforcing its leadership in industrial decarbonization.
Read more: Carbon TerraVault And Net Power Partner For 1 GW Natural Gas California Project With Carbon Capture
