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Harbour EnergyHarbour Energy

Net zero technologies market assessment

Research and innovation

Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre

Harbour Energy, a leading independent oil and gas producer, recognised the urgent need to align its operations with the UK’s net zero targets. As part of its commitment to decarbonisation, the company sought to explore the feasibility of integrating Direct Air Capture (DAC) technologies into its existing infrastructure.

Challenge

This effort aimed to assess the viability of removing CO2 directly from the atmosphere while leveraging synergies with Harbour Energy’s carbon transportation and storage expertise. The company’s primary goals were to understand the economic, technical and operational implications of DAC deployment, as well as its potential contribution to the UK’s CO? removal targets.

Solution

Harbour Energy commissioned the Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre (NZIIC) to conduct a comprehensive assessment of DAC deployment feasibility across multiple countries.

This included detailed evaluations of political, economic, social, technological and environmental (PESTE) factors influencing DAC viability. The study utilised advanced modelling techniques to estimate the levelised cost of direct air capture (LCOD) and carbon efficiency, considering both conventional and renewable energy scenarios.

Potential countries were assessed for DAC readiness, based on factors such as CO2 storage capacity, availability of clean energy, and supportive policy frameworks. Several key locations were identified, each offering distinct advantages, including access to abundant clean energy or well-established infrastructure.

Impact

The project has generated valuable insights into global readiness for DAC deployment and highlighted strategic opportunities for Harbour Energy. The study identified leading countries for DAC implementation, driven by strong regulatory frameworks, high CO2 storage potential, and advanced energy infrastructure.

Harbour Energy is now exploring pilot projects in the identified regions and engaging with local stakeholders to support the advancement and deployment of DAC technologies.