Energy giants Shell, Equinor, and TotalEnergies have announced a significant $713.66 million (7.5 billion Norwegian crowns) investment to expand the Northern Lights carbon storage project in western Norway. This expansion follows a new 15-year commercial agreement with Stockholm Exergi, which will see 900,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) transported and stored annually at the facility.

Aiming to Triple CO₂ Storage Capacity

The expansion will more than triple the site’s annual CO₂ injection capacity, increasing it from the current 1.5 million tonnes per year to at least 5 million tonnes—roughly 10% of Norway’s annual emissions.

"Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a crucial technology for reducing emissions, and this investment underscores our commitment to tackling climate change," Shell stated.

Northern Lights: A Pioneering CCS Project

Northern Lights is part of Norway’s Longship initiative, one of the world’s most advanced CCS projects. Its first phase, completed in September 2023, can store 1.5 million tonnes of CO₂ annually, with first deliveries expected later this year.

The second phase, now backed by the new investment, will add another 3.5 million tonnes of annual storage capacity, bringing the total to 5 million tonnes per year. It is slated for completion in the second half of 2028.

Infrastructure Expansion and EU Support

To accommodate the increased capacity, Northern Lights will build:

  • Additional onshore storage tanks
  • Pumps and a new jetty
  • New injection wells
  • Additional CO₂ transport vessels

The project has also secured funding from the European Commission, which has contributed €131 million ($141.34 million) as part of its climate initiatives.

With this investment, Norway continues to solidify its position as a leader in CCS technology, helping industries transition toward a low-carbon future.