The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a U.S. state-owned electric utility, will partner with Canada’s TC Energy (TSE: TRP) to conduct a feasibility study worth $1.25 million to assess the potential implementation of carbon capture technology at some of its power plants.
The primary objective is to explore the potential for reducing emissions from TVA’s natural gas facilities situated in Ackerman, Mississippi, and Drakesboro, Kentucky, according to an announcement made by TVA Thursday.
The feasibility study, which covers cost implications, technical challenges, and operational impacts associated with integrating carbon capture technology, is part of TVA’s broader commitment to decarbonize its power grid and reach net zero by 2050.
The insights gained from it will be used to shape future decisions regarding TVA’s energy assets.
“TVA is a clean energy leader, and we are focused on reducing carbon emissions in an efficient and cost-effective manner,” Dr. Joe Hoagland, Vice President of TVA Innovation Research, said in a comment.
Omar Khayum, Vice President of Energy Origination and Development at TC Energy, highlighted the significance of this public-private partnership, emphasizing the companies’ shared commitment to transitioning toward a reliable and sustainable low-carbon future.
“We are excited to work with TVA to evaluate solutions that will lower the carbon intensity of reliable, baseload natural gas power facilities,” he said.
Relevant: Natural Gas Could Be Three Times Worse Than Coal Thanks To Methane Leaks – Bloomberg
The process of carbon capture involves diverting emissions from natural gas power facilities to a CO2 scrubber located adjacent to the plant, where through a chemical reaction CO2 is absorbed and then the exhaust is released into the atmosphere.
Subsequently, the captured CO2 is transferred to another vessel and subjected to heat treatment that liberates the CO2, which is then compressed and securely stored deep within the earth.
Read more: Research: Carbon Capture Crucial To The Future Of Natural Gas
