Pioneering the Future: SLB OneSubsea's Role in CO2 Storage for Northern Lights
In a groundbreaking move to tackle climate change, SLB OneSubsea has been entrusted with a critical engineering, procurement, and construction contract by energy giant Equinor. This initiative centers around developing a cutting-edge CO2 subsea injection system for the burgeoning Northern Lights phase two project, located offshore Norway.
Expansion in the Name of Sustainability
The Northern Lights project stands as a beacon of innovation, showcasing the world’s first open-source, full-scale CO2 capture, transport, and storage value chain. With phase two underway, the project aims to exponentially increase its storage capacity, from a modest 1.5 million to a formidable 5 million tonnes of CO2 annually. This pivotal phase highlights the partnership’s dedication to enhancing European efforts towards achieving net-zero emissions.
Equipping for Tomorrow
The collaboration follows the impressive delivery of two subsea injection systems during the project’s inaugural phase in 2023. Given the project’s ambitious scope, Northern Lights plans to utilize two new satellite subsea CO2 injection systems, complete with the necessary tie-in equipment. “The use of standardized components in subsea standardization minimizes risks and scales economies, which elevates both traditional and groundbreaking subsea projects,” commented Mads Hjelmeland, CEO of SLB OneSubsea.
Milestones and Moving Forward
May 2025 marked a milestone as Northern Lights secured all necessary permits, paving the way to commence CO2 injection and storage in the Aurora CCS license in the North Sea. With the first phase fully operational and set to receive CO2 from industrial clients, the project’s operations are slated to begin impacting the global energy landscape later in the year. According to Gas Compression Magazine, this progression aligns with SLB OneSubsea’s strategy to expand subsea frontiers, further establishing itself as a key player in sustainable energy solutions.
A Step Towards a Greener Tomorrow
The Northern Lights project not only exemplifies how collaboration and innovation can drive climate action but also envisions a sustainable future where CO2 emissions are significantly reduced. This strategic venture underscores the potential of standardized subsea solutions in reshaping energy storage and offers a blueprint for future initiatives aimed at combating climate change on a global scale.
