OCTOBER 20239Utilization (CCU), offering a transformative solution to the challenges of renewable energy intermittency. By capturing excess CO2 from the atmosphere and converting it into renewable fuels such as hydrogen or methane, CCU provides a mechanism for storing energy for future use. This strategic approach mitigates carbon emissions and effectively addresses the variability of renewable energy sources. Moreover, the ascendancy of electrochemical and catalytic processes within the realm of CCU has brought forth efficient means of converting CO2 into valuable products. CO2 can be transformed into various functional molecules using electro catalysis, a process in which electric currents drive chemical processes, including renewable fuels like methane and even higher-value outputs like ethylene and syngas.Addressing Technological Limitations & Efficiency ImprovementsWhile CCU holds immense potential, it also faces challenges such as high energy consumption, cost, and scalability. Researchers and engineers are actively working to address these limitations by developing more efficient and cost-effective capture materials, optimizing reaction conditions, and exploring novel reactor designs. These challenges will likely be overcome as technology evolves, making CCU a more practical solution.Several real-world CCU projects are already underway, demonstrating the feasibility and potential of this technology. From large-scale pilot plants capturing CO2 emissions and converting them into building materials to innovative startups producing renewable fuels through electrochemical processes, these projects showcase the diverse applications of CCU across industries. Also, as reported by NITI Aayog on `Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) Policy Framework and its Deployment Mechanism in India' in 2022, India has updated its NDC targets for achieving 50 percent of its total installed capacity from non-fossil-based energy sources, 45 percent reduction in emission intensity by 2030 and taking steps towards achieving Net Zero by 2070, the role of Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) becomes important as reduction strategy to achieve decarbonization from the hard-to abate sectors.At the end, we can examine that CCU is a crucial cornerstone of sustainable technology for combating climate change. CCU mitigates carbon footprints and fosters circular, sustainable economies by capturing and converting carbon dioxide emissions into valuable outputs. As technology advances enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness, CCU gains prominence, holding a pivotal position in crafting an eco-friendly and enduring future for upcoming generations.
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