Supply chain optimization framework for CO₂ capture, utilization, and storage in Germany

In this study, the carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS) supply chain network with real geographic locations of sources and sinks, and different CO₂-based products for Germany is proposed here for the first time, because not yet investigated in the literature. The CCUS network is a large-scale comprehensive model which is used to meet the mandated target of CO₂ emission reduction at different levels with a maximum profit. The novel CCUS infrastructure includes various stationary sources, capture processes, transportation modes, and sequestration and utilization sites. The results suggest that it is possible to reduce current CO₂ emissions by 40-80% in Germany with the total annual costs ranging from 519.34 to 1372.03 billion euro while generating 681.55 to 1880.98 billion euro of revenue annually as a result of producing CO₂-based chemical products including methanol, dimethyl ether, formic acid, acetic acid, urea, and polypropylene carbonate. Overall, the optimal CCUS systems achieve economic profits of 999.62-1568.17 euro per ton of CO₂ captured and utilized. The CCUS model may be critical in aiding decision-makers to ascertain investment strategies for designing CCUS infrastructures.