Transboundary Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) networks in the European context: the “Northern Lights” case study

Abstract

This thesis focusses on CCS as part of the portfolio of mitigation options available against climate change. Considering the underdevelopment of CCS projects with respect to the targets set in international and European law, the thesis analyses regulation of offshore CCS networks – utilising the “Northern Lights” project as case study - as a potential break-through for the achievement of emission reduction targets in hard-to-abate sectors. The thesis aims at clarifying, through the thorough analysis of primary and secondary sources, how CCS networks such as Northern Lights are regulated within international law of the sea - through UNCLOS, the London Convention and Protocol and OSPAR - and European law, with Directive 2009/31/EC and its Norwegian implementation. Within this framework, the research identifies challenges of existing law and possibilities for the future regulation of CCS networks in Europe.