Subsurface Sources of CO2 in the United States

Sponsored by the US Dept. of Energy, these groundbreaking studies were released in 2014 and examine discovered and undiscovered sources of CO₂ for EOR.  This study compiles information about subsurface CO₂ accumulations in the continental United States and estimates the recoverable resource.  Twenty-one CO₂ fields in the contiguous United States were examined, including two in or germane to the Appalachian market: Indian Creek and Jackson Dome fields.  Following on to Volume 1, Volume II explores the genesis and tectonic setting of subsurface CO₂ systems.  The work was framed around an exploration for leads where undiscovered CO₂ reservoirs may occur.  Twenty-six leads in five geographic areas were identified.  Volume 1 concluded that the subsurface CO₂ reservoirs were an important factor to consider in scenario models and forecasts of domestic energy supply and CO₂ capture deployments.  Volume II indicates that it is also important to consider undiscovered sources of CO₂.  In assembling these volumes, full technical and economic analyses were performed (assessment gas-in-place, technically recoverable and economically recoverable resources).  These analyses required development of an extensive database and modeling support system.

Map Credit:  Compiled and drawn by T. Heidrick