Advancing CCUS for Carbon Neutrality: Execution of Subsurface Characterization at Ecopetrol

CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage) technologies are pivotal to achieving carbon neutrality in the pursuit of low-emission hydrogen production and sustainable growth within Ecopetrol’s Energy Transition strategy. In Colombia, CCUS offers not only the highest potential for CO2 abatement but also significant opportunities to generate value through enhanced oil recovery (EOR) projects. This paper outlines the primary goals and progress in implementing a subsurface characterization strategy across Ecopetrol’s assets, organized into four clusters at the national level. To reduce uncertainty, prefeasibility studies have been conducted, focusing on the evaluation of prioritized technologies: (1) CO2-EOR and associated storage, (2) Storage in depressurized fields and (3) Dedicated geological storage.

Cluster “Valle Medio del Magdalena” studies focus on quantifying the enhanced recovery potential through carbonated water injection (CWI), water-alternating-gas injection (WAG-CO2) and continuous CO2 injection, as well as identifying potential sites with pore space for dedicated geological storage. Closed-cycle processes have been proposed to ensure emissions reduction, in which the CO2 recycled is stored. In Cluster “Putumayo”, efforts are directed towards enhanced recovery; Cluster “Caribe” focuses on geological storage in depleted gas fields; Cluster “Llanos” prioritises WAG-CO2 processes for enhanced recovery; and Cluster “Piedemonte” emphasises CO2 injection to optimise emissions reduction and gas-enhanced recovery. The feasibility phase is now underway, with significant advancements in designing pilots to validate recovery efficiency, CO2 entrapment capacity and secure approval for future expansions. The immediate goal is to initiate the first CO2 injection as a pilot trial by the end of 2025. The ultimate objective is to unlock an EOR-CO2 potential equivalent to 344 million barrels of oil and a CO2 storage capacity of 280 million tons. This ambitious endeavour could mark a significant step toward sustainable energy solutions, positioning Ecopetrol as a leader in the transition to a low-carbon future