Reexamining CO₂ Storage Capacity and Utilization of the Utsira Formation

In this work we provide estimates of CO₂ storage capacity of the Utsira Formation using the recently provided datasets from the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate, taking CO₂ density variation into account. We also investigate strategies on how to realize as much as possible of this potential in large-scale injection scenarios. We base our study on the assumption that the limiting factor for CO₂ storage at Utsira is the efficient use of available trapping mechanisms, with pressure buildup being of secondary concern. We consider the trapping mechanisms considered most important for the medium-to-long term (structural, residual and dissolution trapping), using a combination of modeling tools based on the Matlab Reservoir Simulation Toolbox (MRST).