K.U.M. Umwelt- und Meerestechnik Kiel has been chosen by INEOS Energy DK to deploy and operate NAMMU ocean bottom seismometers (OBS) for pre-injection baseline seismicity surveys under the carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiative, Project Greensand Future.
The NAMMU OBS systems will provide critical passive seismic recordings for the Siri-Fairway region in the central North Sea, enabling the safe and permanent storage of up to 400,000 tonnes of CO2 annually within a geological reservoir. This project represents the first phase of an ambitious plan to scale storage capacity to 8 million tonnes per year, incorporating both biogenic and fossil CO2 as volumes increase.
Greensand Future establishes a full industrial CCS value chain on a scalable platform, supporting the gradual expansion of storage capabilities. This innovative framework is applicable to other onshore and offshore storage projects, advancing global CCS deployment efforts.
Baseline seismicity surveys
Renowned for reliability, NAMMU OBS systems feature a 99% recovery success rate and autonomous operation for up to 36 months. In addition to deploying the OBS network, K.U.M. will conduct comprehensive data analysis, producing seismicity bulletins and catalogues in line with international standards. This underscores K.U.M.’s position as a leader in marine seismic monitoring for offshore CCS projects in Europe.
Following its groundbreaking pilot, the INEOS-led Project Greensand reached a Final Investment Decision (FID) in December 2024, marking the transition to its first commercial phase. Storage operations are expected to commence in late 2025 or early 2026, backed by over US$150 million in investments across the Greensand value chain.
Deployment of the OBS network is scheduled for early 2025, with Greensand Future poised to become the EU’s first operational CO2 storage site aimed at mitigating climate change. By showcasing the feasibility of large-scale capture and storage projects, Greensand inspires confidence among European industry leaders and emitters, supporting Denmark and the EU in meeting climate targets.
