Norwegian–Polish carbon capture and storage network: Bilateral collaboration for European climate action

Climate change demands urgent reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, especially from industries that are difficult to decarbonize. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) offers a critical solution by capturing CO${}_2$ at its source and storing it underground, supporting the European Union’s goal of climate neutrality by 2050. This study examines the emerging bilateral CCS network between Norway and Poland, designed to leverage complementary strengths and accelerate technology deployment through transnational collaboration. Norway brings decades of operational expertise demonstrated through landmark projects like Sleipner and Snøhvit, as well as forward-looking initiatives such as the open-access Northern Lights project. Its mature regulatory environment and robust infrastructure further enhance Norway’s position. Poland, with its coal-dependent economy and over 15.5 Gt of potential underground storage capacity, seeks to decarbonize major emitters while transitioning to a sustainable energy future. Our analysis identifies critical synergies arising from shared efforts in research and development, academic training, industrial implementation, regulatory harmonization, and public engagement. By highlighting the reciprocal benefits of such a partnership, the study emphasizes the indispensable role of bilateral cooperation in harnessing CCS’s capabilities to meet the EU’s ambitious climate objectives. This case study not only highlights mutual benefits but also proposes a scalable model for multilateral CCS networks, offering a blueprint for Europe and beyond to achieve ambitious climate targets and secure a low-carbon future.