European-Built CO2 Carrier Launched for Project Greensand

In a significant milestone for the Project Greensand carbon capture and storage initiative, the first European-built CO2 carrier, Carbon Destroyer 1, was launched and named at the Royal Niestern Sander shipyard in the Netherlands. This launch marks a key partnership between Royal Wagenborg and INEOS Energy.

INEOs chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe expressed, “The launch of Carbon Destroyer 1 signifies a crucial step for carbon capture and storage in Europe. It demonstrates the commercial viability of carbon storage as a more effective way to decarbonize Europe without compromising its industrial sector.”

Lady Catherine Ratcliffe, as the vessel’s Godmother, conducted the traditional naming ceremony.

Wagenborg CEO Egbert Vuursteen commented, “This launch is a pivotal moment for Wagenborg, combining our maritime expertise with a sustainable vision. As the first European-built offshore CO2 carrier, this vessel places us at the forefront of Europe’s energy transition.”

Key Features of Carbon Destroyer 1

The Carbon Destroyer 1 is based on Wagenborg’s EasyMax design, specifically modified for handling CO2 under pressure and at low temperatures. It is slated to become fully operational by the end of 2025 or early 2026, coinciding with the commencement of permanent commercial-scale CO2 storage operations for Project Greensand.

INEOS Energy Europe CEO Mads Weng Gade stated, “Carbon Destroyer 1 will transport captured CO2 from various European sources, establishing a virtual pipeline between capture points and deep-sea storage beneath the North Sea. The deployment of this dedicated offshore CO2 carrier is essential for widespread CCS implementation across the continent.”

CO2 Transport and Storage Infrastructure

The CO2 carrier will operate between the Port of Esbjerg in Denmark and the Nini West offshore platform. Construction is currently underway at the Port of Esbjerg for a new CO2 terminal, serving as the onshore hub for receiving, storing, and loading liquefied CO2 onto the vessel.

Once operational, the terminal will feature six large storage tanks and necessary infrastructure to facilitate continuous and scalable CO2 transport to the offshore storage site. Initial CO2 shipments, primarily from Danish biogas facilities, will be transported to the terminal by trucks, stored temporarily, and then transferred to Carbon Destroyer 1 for delivery to the Nini Field.

At the Nini Field, the CO2 will be injected over 1,800 meters beneath the seabed into certified depleted oil reservoirs for safe, long-term storage.