Supporting CO2 utilization and storage pathways through physical modeling of CO2 pipeline topologies: The case of Germany

Pipelines are widely regarded as the most efficient means of CO2 transport for higher amounts in liquid phase; however, they are currently non-existent. Policy-makers and companies need to develop large-scale infrastructure for transport to re-use or storage locations under substantial uncertainty. This paper presents an integrated method for designing CO2 pipeline networks by combining energy system scenarios with physical network simulation. Using Germany as a case study projected to 2045, we derive spatially highly resolved CO2 balances to develop a dense-phase CO2 pipeline topology that follows existing gas pipeline corridors. The proof-of-concept study includes existing sites for cement and lime production, waste incineration, carbon users, four coastal CO2 hubs, and border crossing points. We then apply the multiphysical network simulator MYNTS to assess the technical feasibility of this network including CO2 impurities. We determine suitable pipeline diameters and pump locations while accounting for elevations. The main goal is to test whether a dense phase CO2 pipeline system following existing gas corridors can be technically feasible and at what approximate scale and cost in the German 2045 scenario. The results indicate that a system of about 6000 km pipeline length and a mixed normed diameter of DN700 on main corridors and of DN500/DN400 on branches presents a feasible solution to connect most sites. Investment costs for the designed pipeline system are calculated to be about 17 billion Euros. The method provides a framework for infrastructure planning and is transferable to other countries and to European scope.