Western Michigan University (WMU) has received a $5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The grant is part of a $44.5 million effort to advance carbon capture, transport, and storage (CCUS). WMU will lead a project to accelerate commercial-scale CCUS deployment in Michigan.
Michigan Basin Recognized as Top Region for CCUS Potential
The Michigan Basin has been identified as a promising region for CCUS development in the U.S. It has an estimated storage capacity of at least 70 gigatons of CO2 across five key reservoirs. Dr. Autumn Haagsma, assistant director of the Michigan Geological Survey at WMU, emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. She highlighted the unique role universities can play in leading these efforts.
WMU to Lead Multidisciplinary Partnership for CCUS Roadmap
As one of nine industry and university leaders selected for the DOE grant, WMU will spearhead a multidisciplinary partnership to create a technical assistance program and roadmap for equitable and environmentally responsible CCUS development in Michigan. The project will be led by the Michigan Geological Survey team at WMU and supported by a diverse group of researchers and industry collaborators, including:
- Battelle (3D modeling and subsurface impact analysis)
- Carbon Solutions (transportation route analysis)
- Miami University of Ohio (risk evaluation, e.g., induced seismicity)
- Michigan Technological University (CO2 storage analysis)
- National Tribal Energy Association (tribal community engagement)
- Rock Locker (subsurface synergistic opportunities and competitive use analysis)
- University of Michigan (CO2 utilization opportunities and life cycle analysis)
Student Opportunities in CCUS Research and Innovation
The DOE-funded project will provide WMU students with hands-on research opportunities and access to networking with leading companies and innovators in the CCUS field. Paid summer internships related to the project will also be available starting in summer 2025.
Project Deliverables and Impact
- A carbon capture and utilization directory of companies and organizations ready to engage in CCUS projects
- A county-by-county map of potential CCUS locations across Michigan
Over the three-year grant period, the WMU-led partnership aims to produce valuable resources to facilitate CCUS development in Michigan, including:
By providing these tools and advancing basin-scale carbon transport and storage, the project will contribute to the DOE’s goal of enabling significant reductions in carbon dioxide emissions throughout the U.S. economy.
Read more: DOE Invests $54 Million in CO2 Capture Technologies
