Richtlijn 2009/31 - Geologische opslag van kooldioxide

Geological CO₂ storage sites must be environmentally safe. They cannot interfere with any bodies of water (because of potential negative effects of CO₂ placed into water-columns) or present any health risks. Determining the suitability of these sites includes a rigorous process of data collection, computer static and dynamic modelling to make a 3D model of the candidate storage complex, sensitivity characterisation by applying various simulations on the 3D model and risk assessments using information gathered from the previous steps.

Permits are required to use geological storage sites. Permit applications, submitted to the competent authority of the EU country at hand, must include information such as the expected security of the storage site, the quantity of CO₂ to be injected, the measures to prevent significant irregularities and a proposed monitoring plan. The Commission may issue a non-binding opinion on the draft storage permit to ensure consistency in the implementation of the requirements of the directive across the EU, therefore enhancing public confidence in CCS. Once issued, the competent authority reviews the permit 5 years after issue and every 10 years after that.

No other waste or matter may be added to the CO₂ storage sites for the purpose of waste disposal. CO₂ monitoring results by site operators must be communicated to the competent authority once every year. Meanwhile, the monitoring plan must be updated by the site operator every 5 years and approved by the competent authority. In case of leakage, immediate action must be taken by the site operator (or by the competent authority if the site operator fails to do so) in line with the corrective measures plan approved by the competent authority as part of the storage permit.

Storage sites are closed if there is a substantiated request and conditions stated in the permit have been met by the site operator or if the competent authority decides to close the site after the withdrawal of the permit. Once closed, the operator remains responsible for the site until the conditions for transfer of responsibility are met (mainly the condition that the CO₂ will be completely and permanently stored).