Fugro, a Global geotechnical and environmental services provider announced it has started its first Carbon Capture and Storage project in India. The company strategically partnered with Eco Carbon Engineering Solutions Limited, Visakha Pharma City Limited, and the Environmental Geotechnology Laboratory at IIT Bombay for this project, which will cause carbon emissions at a pharmaceutical plant located in Pharmaceutical Estate in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, to sharply decrease.

Carbon Footprint Reduction in Visakhapatnam

This is a pharmaceutical plant project focused on reducing the carbon footprint in its activities through the capture of CO2 emissions and safe underground storage. CCS technology controls climate change by capturing carbon emissions from industries and storing or repurposing them for various uses. By using advanced solutions, Fugro and its partners are making a significant contribution to India’s sustainability goals.

Fugro’s Role in Ensuring Project Success

Fugro has the requisite skills in geotechnical mapping and geoconsulting to see the project of CCS to its emergence. The company would undertake preliminary feasibility studies on the area for appropriateness in carbon capture and storage. The research will start with a desktop study, followed by lab tests to assess CO2 injection’s safety and feasibility. Fugro’s geoconsulting team in India, in collaboration with IIT Bombay’s research expertise, will lead the technical aspects of the project.

Soumendra Ganguly, Fugro’s Country Manager for India, said, “We see the value that capturing and storing CO2 holds for the future and we look forward to supporting more clients in their CCS journey, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable Earth.”

This partnership aligns with Fugro’s global commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing sustainable industrial practices. Through its “Towards Full Potential” strategy, Fugro offers innovative carbon capture, storage, and utilization solutions to help industries go low-carbon.

Also read: Fugro to Lead Ground Investigation for Innovative CO2 Transport Pipeline in Belgium

Addressing Climate Change with Local Solutions

By combining local expertise with Fugro’s global experience, this project represents a significant step in the fight against climate change. The collaboration combines each partner’s strengths to tackle regional challenges and ensure the project meets top safety and effectiveness standards.

The Czech Republic has updated its energy plan. It is aiming to phase out coal by 2033 which aligns line with EU emission targets. By 2030, nuclear power will account for 44% of electricity, rising to 68% by 2040.

Renewables will grow alongside nuclear, with natural gas used as a transitional source. This strategy reflects the country’s commitment to reducing carbon dependence and transitioning to a carbon-free future, similar to Ukraine’s goal for 2050, primarily using nuclear energy.

The plan emphasizes both emission reduction and energy stability during the green transition.

Also read: President Prabowo Optimistic Indonesia Will Achieve Net Zero Before 2050

Shift Toward Nuclear and Renewable Energy

The new plan also specifies a greater dependence on nuclear and renewable energy sources. The Czech Republic will have a new nuclear reactor operational at the Dukovany power plant by 2040.
Renewable energy will play a role slightly later. The country aims to generate 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The amount represents a increase from the current 18%.

Shift to Renewables

As per the current conditions, coal-based power plants are facing economic constraints due to emission allowance prices that are too high. Most are likely to close by 2030, although some will go earlier due to economic reasons. This will definitely increase renewable energy imports and their production.

Investments for Emission Reductions

To reach EU standards, the climate and energy plan proposes for investments of up to 2.8 trillion CZK by 2030. These investments will concentrate on lowering emissions in industries including transportation, agriculture, and industry, switching from coal to renewable energy sources, and increasing energy efficiency.

Changes to the Green Deal and Petrol Prices

The plan initially proposed a 2 CZK increase in petrol prices due to new emission allowances, but this has been temporarily withdrawn. The government has stated it will reopen discussions with the European Commission on the Green Deal. The aim is to clarify the operation of the new emission allowance system or relax emission limits for car manufacturers.

Focus on Green Future

The Czech Republic’s climate and energy plan is a significant step toward a greener, more sustainable future. It will ensure that the national and EU climate goals are met while addressing the needs of the economy and industries during the transition.

This transition is significant because it will make the country step away from coal and invest highly in renewable energy. The approval of the plan by the government underlines its commitment to a low-carbon future and to achieving long-term environmental goals.