Chevron U.S.A. Inc., through its Chevron New Energies division, is launching a carbon capture and storage project aimed at reducing the carbon intensity of its operations in San Joaquin Valley, California, a press release announced on May 18.

Chevron aims to reduce its carbon intensity by installing CO2 post-combustion capture equipment, capturing the CO2 and then safely storing it thousands of feet underground. This initiative would begin at Chevron’s Kern River Eastridge cogeneration plant in Kern County, California.

“At Chevron, we believe the future of energy is lower carbon," Chevron New Energies vice president of carbon capture, utilization and storage Chris Powers commented in the release. "Reducing the carbon intensity of the energy people rely on day-in and day-out is well-aligned with the ambitions of the Paris Agreement."

The company has applied to obtain a Conditional Use Permit with the Planning and Natural Resources Department of Kern County and will continue to work with appropriate regulators throughout the process.

In addition to the Eastridge cogeneration project, Chevron is currently evaluating and deploying multiple carbon capture technology demonstrations to mature more efficient and cost-effective capture solutions, potentially enabling future projects for Chevron and other industries.

Chevron is also actively exploring additional opportunities to lower the carbon intensity of its San Joaquin Valley operations, including the blending of hydrogen with natural gas in combustion, and the potential use of other emerging lower carbon technologies, such as geothermal.

“As Chevron advances to a lower carbon future, we’re identifying ways to advance our operations as well, so we can continue to provide local jobs, support the local economy, and generate local government revenue that supports critical community services,” said Molly Laegeler, vice president, San Joaquin Valley at Chevron, added. “We are excited about this Chevron New Energies project and fostering continued collaboration with local regulators throughout this process, not only to position the region to benefit from these lower carbon solutions, but that we continue to protect people and the environment."