Norne Thorning Storage, a Fidelis New Energy company, has been granted an exploration licence for the Thorning structure by the Danish Minister of Climate, Energy and Utilities.
The company will soon initiate exploration work programme to assess the structure’s suitability for safe and permanent CO₂ storage, potentially enabling storage before 2030.
Norne will operate the Thorning exploration licence in partnership with Nordsøfonden, representing the Danish state.
If data confirms the structure’s suitability, Norne and Nordsøfonden will have the exclusive right to apply for a CO₂ storage licence, pending approval from the Danish Energy Agency (DEA).
Environmental permits and safety requirements must be met before establishing any storage facility.
Norne Climate Impact president Lars Bo Christiansen said: “The exploration work programme has been carefully designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the deep geological structures and their ability to safely and permanently store CO₂.
“Ross, Norne’s Exclusive Subsurface and Wells Partner and their long experience with the subsoil of Denmark has been instrumental in planning the work programme, which includes extensive seismic sensors aerial surveys with minimal environmental impacts, extensive 3D seismic surveys, and exploration and appraisal wells.”
The award of the Thorning exploration licence marks a significant milestone for Norne, which has been sponsored by Fidelis New Energy since 2021 and designated as an EU Project of Common Interest by the European Commission in 2023.
This development aligns with the decarbonisation goals of both Denmark and the EU, offering industries a solution to reduce CO₂ emissions.
Exploring and potentially developing geological CO₂ storage is crucial for Denmark’s carbon reduction targets for 2030 and beyond.
Norne’s discussions with Danish and EU industry players have led to a concept that reduces costs and environmental impact by utilising facilities for both Danish and EU emitters.
The company facilitates multiple CO₂ delivery modes to Thorning, with a receiving terminal at the Port of Aalborg enabling CO₂ reception from Danish, Baltic and European emitters.
Fidelis New Energy co-founder and president Bengt Järlsjö said: “We look forward to working alongside the DEA and collaborating with Nordsøfonden to explore the CO₂ storage potential of the Danish subsoil, with the hope of establishing Thorning as a safe site for CO₂ storage.
“This license award highlights Denmark’s leadership in decarbonisation once again, aiding both Danish and European industries in their pursuit of significant carbon emission reductions. Since 2021, we have engaged actively with the Danish Government, local authorities, Port of Aalborg, and industry partners throughout Denmark and Europe.
