As part of its R&D work on CO2 capture, IFP has developed a first-generation flue gas scrubbing technology using chemical solvents. IFP has continued its research work to optimize the process and cut its operating costs. The improvements made should generate savings in terms of the energy needed to regenerate the solvent.
The ammonia content of the flue gases should also be significantly reduced, making it possible to comply with standards governing atmospheric emissions. This cooperation with ENEL will enable IFP to test and demonstrate these performance improvements.
Enel has made the strategic decision to be directly involved in the demonstration of Carbon dioxide Capture and Storage technologies (CCS), as a way to guarantee the future use of coal for power generation in a carbon-constrained world. Within this framework, the company has committed to build a slip-stream pilot plant of 10.000 Nm3/h, to be installed at Brindisi power station.
This agreement will enable ENEL to strengthen its foothold in the field of CO2 capture and storage and, in particular, play an important part in the industrial roll-out plan recommended by the European ZEP (Zero emission fossil fuel power plants) technology platform.
Following a preliminary assessment, the two partners may also consider testing second-generation processes currently being developed by IFP.
IFP and ENEL aim to use this cooperation agreement to contribute to the implementation of a first-generation of capture processes which make it possible, in the short term, to meet the needs of manufacturers seeking to cut their CO2 emissions.
