CCS, or CCUS, involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial processes and safely storing them underground.
In Louisiana, we are known for our robust chemical industry, and CCS is proving to be a key strategy to help reach our industry’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. By adopting CCS, industries in Louisiana are taking vital steps to align their operations with broader climate goals and minimize their environmental footprint. Since the 1970s, more than 200 mt of CO2 have been safely captured and stored underground, demonstrating the role CCS can play in cutting GHG emissions nationwide.
Louisiana is particularly well-suited for large-scale CCS operations thanks to our geography and infrastructure. We have the potential to safely store millions of metric tons of CO2 annually. Already, Louisiana has over 5,000 miles of pipelines capable of transporting captured CO2 to storage sites, ensuring safe and efficient handling of emissions.
Economic and employment benefits
The chemical industry is vital to Louisiana’s economy and is ready to embrace CCS technology. As the state’s largest direct job provider, the chemical sector directly employs nearly 30,000 people and supports over 260,000 jobs across Louisiana. With CCS, the industry not only remains competitive but also demonstrates its commitment to environmental responsibility. It is estimated that as CCS expands, 5,000 new direct jobs will be created, along with additional jobs to support infrastructure development and operations. This boost in employment will have a lasting impact on the state’s workforce and contribute to long-term economic growth.
Path to net-zero: CCS transforming Louisiana
The CCS process
Financial advantages and tax incentives
In addition to creating jobs, CCS offers financial benefits for Louisiana’s industries. 61 facilities in the state are eligible for the federal 45Q carbon capture tax credit. Nearly half of these facilities are considered strong candidates for CO2 capture, with the potential to collectively sequester over 23 million mt of CO2 each year, a huge step toward lowering Louisiana’s GHG emissions.
Louisiana’s sustainability goals
CCS plays a key role in Louisiana’s broader sustainability initiatives. It’s highlighted in the state’s Climate Action Plan as a crucial element in the push to reduce emissions and meet net-zero targets. The chemical industry’s investment in CCS is part of the broader effort to minimize its environmental footprint while continuing to drive economic progress in the state. This proactive approach not only protects Louisiana’s natural resources but also enhances the quality of life for its residents.
Looking ahead: A cleaner, greener future
Thanks to its strong industrial base, ideal geological features and commitment to sustainability, Louisiana is poised to lead the way in carbon capture technology. The potential economic advantages are substantial, with billions of dollars in investments, thousands of new jobs and significant cost savings through tax incentives. More importantly, CCS offers a viable path to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the state and our communities.
As the chemical industry continues to innovate and integrate new technologies into our current practices, CCS will remain a key fixture in efforts aimed at reducing emissions. Louisiana’s progress in this area will ensure the state maintains its role as a leader in environmental stewardship while continuing to support economic growth.
For more information, visit lca.org or email info@lca.org.
