Carbon capture and storage potential in the Guajira Basin, Colombia using the costmap–simccs software

Title : Carbon capture and storage potential in the Guajira Basin, Colombia using the costmap–simccs software

Abstract:

Clean energy transition alternatives, such as Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), are technologies implemented to mitigate atmospheric CO₂ concentrations and stabilize the increase of greenhouse gases resulting from anthropogenic activities. This project aims to capture CO₂ emissions from point sources located in the Colombian Caribbean region through the implementation of the SimCCS–CostMAP software developed by Carbon Solutions LLC. This software integrates the three components of source–transport–injection and performs a transport cost–benefit assessment, considering both onshore and offshore transportation alternatives through the calculation of pipeline route networks, associated infrastructure, and the geographical characteristics of the territory. The captured and transported CO₂ will be injected and stored in sedimentary formations of the Guajira Basin.
Based on the reviewed literature for the Lower Guajira sub-basin—defined as the study area due to its stratigraphic significance and gas production potential—and according to its petroleum system, the most suitable sedimentary formations for reservoir storage are the Uitpa and Jimol formations. These formations are characterized by lithologies including calcareous sandstones, limestones, claystones, siltstones, and conglomeratic layers. The Jimol Formation in the offshore sector of the basin exhibits porosities (?) of approximately 17% and permeabilities (K) of 102.5 mD, which are consistent with the requirements for CO₂ storage reservoirs. Regarding formation thickness, ANH–UIS report an average value of 480 m based on available well data.
The main emission sources in the Colombian Caribbean are associated with the mining, cement, oil refining, and power generation sectors. Within this group, power generation—particularly thermoelectric plants—accounts for the largest number of industrial facilities. However, two of the three highest CO₂-emitting industries correspond to Cerrejon Mining and the Cartagena Refinery, with reported emissions in 2024 of 2.96 and 2.07 Mt CO₂-eq, respectively, according to the open-source Climate TRACE database.
To define the most cost-efficient and logistically optimal CO₂ transport routes using the SimCCS–CostMAP software, geographic, socioeconomic, and regulatory data layers were obtained from open-access sources such as INVEMAR, IGAC, and RUNAP, among others. This information enables the development of a CostMAP model for a CCS pilot project in the Caribbean region, capturing industrial emissions and injecting them into geological reservoirs. Furthermore, considering that national carbon taxes currently cover only 27% of the country’s emissions and that the cost per tonne of CO₂ equivalent is approximately USD 5, the implementation of a carbon injection project would represent a significant opportunity for participation in Colombia’s carbon market.

Biography:

Lorena Franco is a geologist graduated from EAFIT University. Her current work focuses on the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the evaluation of clean energy transition alternatives, particularly carbon capture and storage. She has participated in student chapters affiliated with EAFIT University, including AAGGP and SEG, and is currently a member of the Northern Andes Hydrology Research Group. Her undergraduate thesis entitled “Variations in Magma Volumes during the Meso–Cenozoic Based on the Detrital Zircon Record of Eastern Colombia,” enhanced her research interests in Colombian sedimentary basins, regional geology, and tectonic evolution.