Direct Air Capture (DAC) leader Climeworks has signed an agreement to jointly explore the possibility of developing the technology in Saudi Arabia with local research organization King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC).
The MOU between the two parties was signed during the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) Forum and is another confirmation of the kingdom’s interest in exploring carbon removal and DAC in particular.
Given the carbon storage potential of the country, as well as the potential for renewable energy, the region could turn into one of clusters of DAC development in the next decades.
Christoph Gebald, co-founder and co-CEO of Climeworks said: “Saudi Arabia is an ideal location for Direct Air Capture technology, thanks to its abundant low-carbon energy resources, underground CO2 storage potential, and forward-thinking policies that support innovative climate solutions.”
KAPSARC’s Vice President of Knowledge & Analysis, Axel Pierru stressed on how important the initiative is by saying: “This collaboration marks a significant step in exploring innovative carbon removal solutions tailored to Saudi Arabia’s unique context and large geological CO2 storage capacity. Our research shows the key role that the development of DAC in the Kingdom will potentially play in achieving a net-zero energy system, both domestically and globally.”
The first goal of the partnership will be to set up a full-scale DAC facility, using the experience Climeworks has accumulated from its pilot plants in Iceland.
KAPSARC and Aramco exploring direct air capture possibilities
The Climeworks MOU is one of several directions Saudi Arabia is exploring when it comes to DAC.
KAPSARC is an active supporter of the Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) Mission race aimed at students, while oil giant Aramco has signed agreements with Spiritus and Siemens Energy for the development of pilot plants with a view to scale.
Aramco Ventures has also made a capital investment in Spiritus for an undisclosed amount.
Read more: Morgan Stanley Makes 40,000 Ton Carbon Removal Purchase From Climeworks
