Cost-Efficient Small-Scale CO₂ Transport Solutions and Integration with National CCS Hubs: A Case Study of CO₂ Transport in South- West Norway

Decarbonizing small- and medium-scale CO₂ emitters presents a significant opportunity to reduce emissions in Norway. Yet, current transport solutions, such as Northern Lights, have predominantly targeted large-scale point sources (>0.3 Mtpa). Consequently, smaller (<0.05 Mtpa) and medium emitters (0.05–0.3 Mtpa) remain largely untapped in terms of CO2 Capture and Storage (CCS). The main challenge lies in developing cost-effective transport solutions for these low-volume, shortdistance flows while integrating them into existing large-scale CCS infrastructure without disrupting ongoing operations. Therefore, this study explores potential CO2 sources and consumers in South-West Norway and examines the integration of small-scale CO2 transport systems with a national-level CO2 hub. A novel small electric CO2 ship (700 m3) with automated loading/unloading is suggested for low-volume logistics. We also propose an innovative "tie-in" concept that allows a local CO2 hub to be connected to the main subsea CO2 pipeline from the planned large-scale Gismarvik CO2 Hub. The techno-economic analysis of the logistics study highlights that the small CO2 carrier proves to be the right size for local volumes, saving capital expenditure. The tie-in solution is found to be economical due to the simplified local CO2 injection facility, which can be integrated into large-scale infrastructure, while reducing its potential traffic congestion. Although shared infrastructure can further improve economic feasibility, multi-party coordination and contracting will be a challenge. In such cases, the point-to-point approach of the small carrier and the tie-in can de-risk complex contractual and operational interfaces. This localized infrastructure design offers a scalable pathway for dispersed emitters to realize the CCS value chain.