The Netherlands’ Porthos carbon capture and storage (CCS) project has reached a key technical milestone with four former North Sea gas production wells successfully converted for CO2 injection, bringing the project closer to beginning operations later this year.
Located on the P18-A offshore platform about 20 km off the Dutch coast, these wells were originally used for natural gas extraction but have now been retrofitted to safely receive and store captured carbon dioxide in depleted reservoirs beneath the seabed. The conversion is part of broader efforts to repurpose existing energy infrastructure to support low-carbon solutions.
With platform modifications nearing completion, Porthos aims to commence CO2 injection in the autumn of 2026, creating one of the first operational large-scale offshore CCS systems in the European Union.
Once fully operational, the Porthos infrastructure will transport captured CO₂ from industrial emitters in the Port of Rotterdam’s manufacturing and energy hub and inject it into depleted offshore gas reservoirs at depths of roughly 3,000 meters. The project is expected to store up to 2.5 million tonnes of CO2 per year, directly supporting the Netherlands’ goal to reduce industrial emissions and helping the country meet its climate targets under the EU Fit for 55 framework.
The development of Porthos also reflects years of preparation, including the laying of offshore pipelines, installation of onshore compression facilities, and regulatory approvals. The project has received financial support through innovative instruments like a dedicated carbon capture and storage bond issued by the Port of Rotterdam, which helped unlock investment for final construction and commissioning.
Industry observers see the readiness of the wells as a critical step toward scaling CCS deployment in Europe, demonstrating how existing oil and gas assets can be repurposed to cut industrial emissions and accelerate the energy transition.
Photo source: Porthos CO2 Transport and Storage C.V.
