Regional Modeling of Large-Scale Hydrologic Impact of CO₂ Storage
Project # ESD06-046

Primary Performing Organization
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL)

This project will investigate the impact of large scale CO₂ injection and storage on regional multilayered groundwater systems. If large scale CO₂ capture and storage technologies (CCS) are implemented, there needs to be an understanding of the increase and extent of water pressure in the storage formation and in the shallower aquifers which are separated from the storage formation by aquitards of much smaller hydraulic conductivities.

Emphasis will be placed on understanding the change in groundwater table levels, the effect on discharge and recharge zones in groundwater systems, and the impact of the changes on the properties and characteristics of Underground Sources of Drinking Water (USDW).

Specific project objectives include:

• Understanding and evaluating the large scale regional impact of carbon dioxide (CO₂) injection and storage, and the resulting potential changes in groundwater table levels.
• Determining the effect on discharge and recharge zones in the groundwater system.
• Identifying the impact of these changes on the properties and characteristics of USDWs.

Existing data shows that the impacts of large-scale injection and water displacement on regional multi-layered groundwater systems have not yet been assessed. Confidence must be built in this technology if it is to be implemented on a large scale.

Contact:
Project Manager: William O’Dowd, William.ODowd@netl.doe.gov

Related Papers and Publications:

• Coming Soon!