Feasibility of Commercial CO₂ Storage in Ghana: Prospects, challenges, and economic impacts

By Christopher Nkansah, MSc

As the world pivots toward net-zero carbon emissions, carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) technologies have become pivotal solutions in combating climate change. Ghana, a burgeoning industrial economy in sub-Saharan Africa, stands at a crossroads in harnessing the potential of CCUS to reduce carbon emissions and footprints while fueling industrial growth. This article explores the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of CCS implementation in Ghana, supported by empirical data and analysis.

Ghana’s economic growth and industrial expansion have led to increasing energy demands and a corresponding rise in greenhouse gas emissions. As global climate change policies tighten, the development of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology emerges as a strategic tool for reducing emissions while ensuring sustainable energy production. Among these strategies, the commercial storage of carbon dioxide (CO₂) presents a significant opportunity for Ghana to balance industrial growth with environmental responsibility.

Carbon capture and storage is increasingly recognized as essential for meeting the global climate targets set out in the Paris Agreement. By capturing CO₂ emissions from industrial sources and storing them underground, CCS can significantly reduce atmospheric carbon levels. Globally, over 40 million metric tons of CO₂ are stored annually, with countries like Norway and the United States leading the way.

The Prospects of CO₂ Storage in Ghana

Ghana’s unique geological formations present a significant opportunity for commercial CO₂ storage. The country is endowed with sedimentary basins, including the Tano Basin and the Voltaian Basin contain porous rock formations ideal for long term isolation and storage of CO₂. ₂. Preliminary studies by the Ghana Geological Survey Authority indicate these basins could store over 500 million metric tons of CO₂, making them viable long-term solutions. According to a 2021 study by the Petroleum Commission of Ghana, the estimated storage capacity of these basins exceeds 2 gigatons (Gt) of CO₂. Such capacity is sufficient to accommodate decades of emissions from industrial sectors, including power generation, cement production, and oil refining.

Furthermore, Ghana’s participation in international carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement offers potential economic incentives. By developing CCS projects, Ghana could earn carbon credits, attract foreign investments, and gain access to advanced technologies. This is a very refreshing opportunity to capitalize and expand energy infrastructure base of the country.

Ghana’s Emissions Profile and Technical Prospects

Ghana emits approximately 18 million metric tons of CO₂ annually, primarily from energy production, manufacturing, and transportation. While this is modest compared to global emitters, the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) aim to cut emissions by 15–45% by 2030. CCS could provide a viable transformative solution to meet these ambitious goals.

The technical feasibility of CO₂ storage hinges on the availability of infrastructure for CO₂ capture, transportation, and injection. While CCS technologies are well-established globally, adapting them to Ghana’s infrastructure requires careful consideration. Pilot projects, such as injecting CO₂ into depleted oil and gas reservoirs, could serve as proof of concept while demonstrating economic viability. It is noteworthy to emphasize that, Ghana’s oil and gas sector offers existing pipelines and expertise that could be leveraged for CCS projects, reducing upfront investment requirements.

Challenges in Implementation of CCS in Ghana

Despite its potential, commercial CO₂ storage faces significant hurdles in Ghana. The upfront capital investment for CCS projects remains substantially prohibitive. According to a World Bank report (2022), the cost of capturing and storing one ton of CO₂ ranges from $50 to $100. For Ghana, financing such projects requires substantial international collaboration and public-private partnerships.

Technical expertise is another critical barrier. Ghana’s academic and professional training institutions must expand their focus on CCS-specific skills. Without a robust pipeline of qualified professionals, the country risks delay in project implementation.

Additionally, potential public resistance due to perceived environmental risks and regulatory frameworks for CCS are still in their infancy. Ghana must develop comprehensive policies that address site selection, monitoring, and liability for stored CO₂. Lessons can be drawn from countries like Norway and Canada, which have successfully implemented commercial CCS projects. Addressing these challenges will require stakeholder engagement and capacity-building initiatives. Ghana could collaborate with international stakeholders to share knowledge, access technology, and secure funding. Partnerships with leading CCS nations like Norway could accelerate the learning curve and foster innovation.

Economic Impact and Funding Models

The cost of CCS implementation ranges from $50 to $100 per ton of CO₂ stored. For Ghana, funding mechanisms such as carbon credits, international climate finance, and public-private partnerships could mitigate the financial burden. The World Bank’s Climate Investment Funds could also play a pivotal role in initial capital investment.

 CCS projects have the potential to generate significant employment opportunities, from construction and engineering to operations and maintenance. It is estimated that deploying CCS across Ghana’s industrial sector could create over 25,000 direct and indirect jobs annually. By positioning itself as a regional hub for CCS, Ghana could attract foreign investment and generate revenue from carbon storage services. This would diversify the economy, reducing reliance on volatile oil revenues. As Ghana advances its CCS agenda, pilot projects could pave the way for full-scale deployment. The integration of CCS into national energy and industrial policies will be crucial for sustained success.

Conclusion

The feasibility of commercial CO₂ storage in Ghana lies at the intersection of environmental necessity and economic opportunity. While challenges exist, the country’s geological potential, industrial needs, and climate commitments provide a strong foundation for CCS adoption. By embracing this technology, Ghana can lead the way in Africa’s journey toward a sustainable and low-carbon future.

In sum, CCS represents not only a pathway for Ghana to achieve its climate goals but also an economic catalyst for industrial transformation. Strategic planning, regulatory readiness, and international cooperation will be essential in realizing the full potential of this game-changing technology.

Author: Christopher Nkansah, MSc

Greenhouses Gas Engineer

Illinois Commerce Commission