Air Liquide SA (Paris) and Saras S.p.A. signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at exploring the solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of Saras’ Sarroch petroleum refinery in Italy, one of the most important refineries in Europe. As part of this agreement, the two companies will assess the technical and economical feasibility to realize new solutions for the capture and storage of CO2 emissions related to the Sarroch refinery processes. This initiative is in line with the respective Sustainable Development Objectives of both the companies.
The Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two companies provides for a first-phase study aimed at assessing different carbon capture solutions, among which Air Liquide’s proven and patented solution Cryocap, and their applicability. In a second phase, the two partners plan to conduct a more extensive feasibility study that will also include CO2 transport and storage solutions.
A carbon capture and storage (CCS) solution at the Sarroch site would enable a reduction in the carbon footprint of the refinery and of the process of electricity supply to the surrounding community. The Sarroch site is equipped with an IGCC plant (Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle), an integrated combined-cycle plant that uses heavy products of the refinery to produce electricity intended to supply both industrial customers and domestic use in Sardinia.
As part of this MoU, Air Liquide will also explore the possibility of reducing the carbon footprint of its existing oxygen and nitrogen production capacity on the site, using renewable electricity in the context of long-term energy purchase agreements.