Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition

Abstract submission deadline

30 October 2024

Manuscript submission deadline

31 December 2024

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Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Climate change poses a threat to human well-being. Globally, energy production and consumption are estimated to account for more than two-thirds of greenhouse gas emissions. In aid of reducing the impact of climate change, the global energy system is undergoing a significant transition from a fossil fuel- to a green energy-based system. However, increased water and energy consumption may coincide with renewable energy development and carbon mitigation efforts. With global population growth and intensifying urban sprawl continuing to stretch the demand for energy and water resources, supplying affordable, secure, and sustainable water and energy resources is as integral to human survival as carbon mitigation. The carbon–energy–water (CEW) nexus is an interdisciplinary framework within which we can better understand the synergies and trade-offs between promoting carbon mitigation and alleviating potential water and energy security crises. We must consider the CEW nexus when formulating, at the global level, policies and strategies to promote sustainable energy transition.

This topic addresses the broader research field of the CEW nexus in global climate change mitigation efforts, with a particular focus on its role in the global energy transition. Papers of both a theoretical and an applicative nature are welcome.

Research topics may include, but should not be limited to, the following:

• CEW nexus framework and modeling;
• Global carbon mitigation efforts;
• Renewable energy transition;
• CCUS;
• Land use and land cover change;
• Remote sensing and GIS applications;
• Energy securities;
• Water securities;
• Energy storage technologies;
• Cleaner energy production methods;
• Life-cycle assessment on the CEW nexus;
• Environmental impacts of energy transition;
• Policies regarding the CEW nexus and global energy transition.

Prof. Dr. Michael Zhengmeng Hou
Dr. Faisal Mehmood
Dr. Yachen Xie
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Energies energies	3.2	5.5	2008	16.1 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Environments environments	3.7	5.9	2014	23.7 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Land land	3.9	3.7	2012	14.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Remote Sensing remotesensing	5.0	7.9	2009	23 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Water water	3.4	5.5	2009	16.5 Days	CHF 2600	Submit

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Published Papers (13 papers)

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All Energies Environments Land Remote Sensing Water

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14 pages, 2646 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of a Fishery Complementary Photovoltaic Power Plant on the Near-Surface Meteorology and Water Quality of Coastal Aquaculture Ponds

by Fawen Song, Zhiqiang Lu, Zhouhua Guo, Yi Wang and Li Ma

Water 2024, 16(4), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16040526 - 07 Feb 2024

Viewed by 665

Abstract

To date, most studies focus on the ecological and environmental effects of land-based photovoltaic (PV) power plants, while there is a dearth of studies examining the impacts of water-based PV power plants. The effects of a fishery complementary PV power plant, a kind [...] Read more.

To date, most studies focus on the ecological and environmental effects of land-based photovoltaic (PV) power plants, while there is a dearth of studies examining the impacts of water-based PV power plants. The effects of a fishery complementary PV power plant, a kind of water-based PV technology, on the near-surface meteorology and aquaculture water environment were investigated in coastal aquaculture ponds in southeast China. The results showed that PV prevented 89~93% of the solar radiation on the surface of the pond, resulting in an average reduction in water temperature of 1.5 °C and a substantial decrease in light intensity of 94%. Furthermore, it weakened the wind speed by 41~50% and elevated the surface air temperature by an average of 0.6 °C. In addition, PV power results in an impressive decrease in chlorophyll-α of 72~94% and a notable increase in dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations of 8~24%. PV power also reduced the concentration of labile phosphate, active silicate, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and total organic carbon. However, the PV power did not have a substantial influence on the concentrations of nitrate and ammonium. Our results highlight that fishery complementary PV power plants may be able to improve water quality and benefit shade-loving species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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21 pages, 3402 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Land–Water–Energy Coupling System and Low-Carbon Policy Simulation: A Case Study of Nanjing, China

by Ruoxuan Zhai and Kongqing Li

Land 2023, 12(11), 2000; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12112000 - 31 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 870

Abstract

Global climate change produces large amounts of CO₂, and carbon emission reduction has become a global hot topic. As a key city in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Nanjing plays a significant representative role in the process of achieving the “double [...] Read more.

Global climate change produces large amounts of CO₂, and carbon emission reduction has become a global hot topic. As a key city in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Nanjing plays a significant representative role in the process of achieving the “double carbon” goals. In this paper, a land–water–energy coupling system was established and urban carbon emissions were estimated. Through the SD model, the future urban carbon emissions were predicted under the adjustment of different land, water and energy consumption scenarios. We studied the relationship between urban carbon emissions and the land–water–energy coupling system, and whether Nanjing can achieve carbon neutralization in 2060 under conditions of natural development. The results show that urban carbon emissions in Nanjing have reached a peak in 2018, but low carbon measures are still needed for Nanjing to achieve its goal of carbon neutrality by 2060. Specific measures include increasing investment in technological innovation, expansion of the application scope of clean energy, reasonably planning land use structure, water conservation and wastewater utilization and the application of advanced carbon utilization technology. The results in this paper can serve as a reference for other cities and provide guidance for future urban planning and decision making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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21 pages, 2424 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Forecasting and Scenario Analysis of Carbon Emissions in Key Industries: A Case Study in Henan Province, China

by Yilin Guo, Zhengmeng Hou, Yanli Fang, Qichen Wang, Liangchao Huang, Jiashun Luo, Tianle Shi and Wei Sun

Energies 2023, 16(20), 7103; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16207103 - 16 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1042

Abstract

In a global context where sustainable growth is imperative, understanding carbon emissions in significant regions is essential. Henan Province, being a vital region in China for population, agriculture, industry, and energy consumption, plays a crucial role in this understanding. This study, rooted in [...] Read more.

In a global context where sustainable growth is imperative, understanding carbon emissions in significant regions is essential. Henan Province, being a vital region in China for population, agriculture, industry, and energy consumption, plays a crucial role in this understanding. This study, rooted in the need to identify strategies that not only meet China’s broader carbon neutrality objectives but also offer insights regarding global sustainability models, utilizes the STIRPAT model combined with scenario analysis. The aim was to forecast carbon emission trajectories from 2020 to 2060 across the key industries—electricity, steel, cement, transportation, coal, and chemical—that are responsible for over 80% of the total emissions in Henan. The findings suggest a varied carbon peak timeline: the steel and cement industries might achieve their peak before 2025, and the transportation, coal, and chemical sectors might achieve theirs around 2030, whereas that of the power industry could be delayed until 2033. Significantly, by 2060—a landmark year for Chinese carbon neutrality ambitions—only the electricity sector in Henan shows potential for zero emissions under an extreme scenario. This study’s results underscore the importance of region-specific strategies for achieving global carbon neutrality and offer a blueprint for other populous, industrialized regions worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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28 pages, 5209 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Water Management Adaptation to Climate Change in Mediterranean Semiarid Regions by Desalination and Photovoltaic Solar Energy, Spain

by Gabriel Gómez Martínez and Miguel Ángel Pérez Martín

Water 2023, 15(18), 3239; https://doi.org/10.3390/w15183239 - 11 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1155

Abstract

Integration of renewable energy sources and water production technologies is a must when facing water scarcity problems in semiarid regions, such as Mediterranean regions. The use of additional water resources and production methods, such as reclaimed water and, more specifically, desalinated water, means [...] Read more.

Integration of renewable energy sources and water production technologies is a must when facing water scarcity problems in semiarid regions, such as Mediterranean regions. The use of additional water resources and production methods, such as reclaimed water and, more specifically, desalinated water, means present and necessary water resources to introduce in the water balances to attend to water demands within a global warming and droughting scenario. These solutions have the inconvenience of energy/power needs and costs. However, the development of renewable energies like photovoltaic solar energy, with lower and lower costs and greater efficiency, makes these economically feasible facilities, reaching competitive production costs for marine or sea desalinated water by around 50% of reduction in energy costs and 20–30% of savings in final water production cost. This paper presents a practical project or action focused on the integration of renewable energies and new water resources by introducing a Photovoltaic Energy Plant (PVEP) as an energy source to feed a Seawater Desalination Treatment Plant (SWDTP). The PV facility is designed to cover all the energy demanded using the SWDTP during the day, and even studying the possibility of selling the energy production exceeds and injecting them into the energy supply network, covering the needs of buying energy needed during the high period where there is no photovoltaic energy production. Thus, savings related to energy costs and even incomes coming from energy sales mean an important reduction in operation costs or expenditures (OPEX), which makes economically feasible and sustainable the investment and the final price of water produced within the Mutxamel SWDTP. The final reduction cost in water desalination reaches 25% on average. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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31 pages, 2822 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Enhancing Energy Transition through Sector Coupling: A Review of Technologies and Models

by Qichen Wang, Zhengmeng Hou, Yilin Guo, Liangchao Huang, Yanli Fang, Wei Sun and Yuhan Ge

Energies 2023, 16(13), 5226; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16135226 - 07 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1495

Abstract

In order to effectively combat the effects of global warming, all sectors must actively reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a sustainable and substantial manner. Sector coupling has emerged as a critical technology that can integrate energy systems and address the temporal imbalances created [...] Read more.

In order to effectively combat the effects of global warming, all sectors must actively reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a sustainable and substantial manner. Sector coupling has emerged as a critical technology that can integrate energy systems and address the temporal imbalances created by intermittent renewable energy sources. Despite its potential, current sector coupling capabilities remain underutilized, and energy modeling approaches face challenges in understanding the intricacies of sector coupling and in selecting appropriate modeling tools. This paper presents a comprehensive review of sector coupling technologies and their role in the energy transition, with a specific focus on the integration of electricity, heat/cooling, and transportation, as well as the importance of hydrogen in sector coupling. Additionally, we conducted an analysis of 27 sector coupling models based on renewable energy sources, with the goal of aiding deciders in identifying the most appropriate model for their specific modeling needs. Finally, the paper highlights the importance of sector coupling in achieving climate protection goals, while emphasizing the need for technological openness and market-driven conditions to ensure economically efficient implementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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18 pages, 1932 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Coupling Evaluation and Driving Factors of Water–Energy–Carbon in the Yellow River Basin

by Jianhua Liu, Lingyu Pu, Liangchao Huang and Tianle Shi

Water 2023, 15(13), 2377; https://doi.org/10.3390/w15132377 - 27 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1115

Abstract

Taking 57 prefecture-level cities in the Yellow River basin as a research area, this study evaluates the coupling coordination level of the water–energy–carbon (WEC) system in the Yellow River basin from 2012 to 2021 and explores the driving factors of coupling coordinated development. [...] Read more.

Taking 57 prefecture-level cities in the Yellow River basin as a research area, this study evaluates the coupling coordination level of the water–energy–carbon (WEC) system in the Yellow River basin from 2012 to 2021 and explores the driving factors of coupling coordinated development. The study revealed that: (1) the development level of the three subsystems all showed an upward trend. The development level of the carbon system exhibited the highest level. The development index of the carbon and energy systems rose steadily, whereas the development index of the water system fluctuated considerably during the research period, although the magnitude of the fluctuation gradually slowed down. (2) The coupling coordination degree displayed a distribution characteristic of “high in the east and low in the west, high in the south and low in the north”. While the coupling coordination degree improved year by year, the spatial heterogeneity gradually increased. (3) The coupling coordination degree presented a positive correlation, and the agglomeration level was dominated by “high-high” and “low-low” agglomeration types. The “high-high” agglomeration area had a certain degree of spatial mobility, while the “low-low” agglomeration areas showed a tendency for spreading towards the middle reaches of the Yellow River basin. (4) Technological innovation, and the economic basis, had a significant positive impact on the coupling coordinated development, while the industrial structure bias showed a clear inhibitory effect. The positive role of opening up is not yet significant. Meanwhile, the indirect effect of each driving factor was greater than the direct effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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17 pages, 5216 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Environmental Protection in Oil and Gas Wells through Improved Prediction Method of Cement Slurry Temperature

by Bo Feng, Jin Li, Zaoyuan Li, Xuning Wu, Jian Liu, Sheng Huang and Jinfei Sun

Energies 2023, 16(13), 4852; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16134852 - 21 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1009

Abstract

Accurate cement slurry temperature prediction is a prerequisite for improving cementing quality and ensuring wellbore integrity and sealing of oil and gas wells. It plays a crucial role in preventing “gas migration” and “sustained casing pressure” problems and reducing environmental pollution. The construction [...] Read more.

Accurate cement slurry temperature prediction is a prerequisite for improving cementing quality and ensuring wellbore integrity and sealing of oil and gas wells. It plays a crucial role in preventing “gas migration” and “sustained casing pressure” problems and reducing environmental pollution. The construction links before the start of cementing are neglected by the existing prediction methods, and thus, it is not reasonable to assume initial temperature conditions. In this paper, a two-dimensional transient temperature field model for cementing is developed and its reasonableness is verified. The distribution of wellbore and formation temperature fields at cementing beginning is calculated. In addition, the influence rules of several factors on the cement slurry circulation temperature are calculated and discussed. The results show that the initial temperature varies significantly and that each factor affects the fluid circulation temperature in different ways and to different degrees. If the circulating wash operation before cementing is considered, the temperature field decreases in the downhole section and increases in the uphole section compared to the assumption that the initial condition is the original formation temperature. By correcting the initial conditions, the accuracy of cement slurry circulation temperature prediction can be improved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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21 pages, 4936 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

A Two-Step Site Selection Concept for Underground Pumped Hydroelectric Energy Storage and Potential Estimation of Coal Mines in Henan Province

by Qianjun Chen, Zhengmeng Hou, Xuning Wu, Shengyou Zhang, Wei Sun, Yanli Fang, Lin Wu, Liangchao Huang and Tian Zhang

Energies 2023, 16(12), 4811; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16124811 - 20 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1182

Abstract

In the context of carbon neutrality, the phase-out of coal from the energy structure has resulted in numerous old coal mines that possess abundant underground space resources suitable for underground pumped hydroelectric energy storage (UPHES). Site selection and estimation of potential are critical [...] Read more.

In the context of carbon neutrality, the phase-out of coal from the energy structure has resulted in numerous old coal mines that possess abundant underground space resources suitable for underground pumped hydroelectric energy storage (UPHES). Site selection and estimation of potential are critical to the planning and implementation of UPHES in old coal mines. This paper introduces a two-step site selection concept, including a screening assessment followed by a comprehensive assessment, to determine suitable locations for UPHES. The screening indicators in the screening assessment comprise geological features, mine water disasters, and minimum installed capacity, while the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is applied in the comprehensive assessment. Additionally, coal mines in Henan Province are preliminarily screened through the screening assessment and the potential for UPHES is thoroughly investigated. The estimated volume of the drifts and shafts in old coal mines is approximately 1.35 $\times$ 10⁷ m³, while in producing coal mines, it is around 2.96 $\times$ 10⁷ m³. Furthermore, the corresponding annual potential for UPHES is 1468.9 GWh and 3226.3 GWh, respectively. By consuming surplus wind and solar power, UPHES is able to reduce 4.68 $\times$ 10⁵ tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. The study provides preliminary guidance for policy-makers in developing UPHES in old coal mines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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19 pages, 1191 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Phytoplankton Carbon Utilization Strategies and Effects on Carbon Fixation

by Xin Wang, Zhuo Yin, Jielai Chen and Jing Liu

Water 2023, 15(11), 2137; https://doi.org/10.3390/w15112137 - 05 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4526

Abstract

Phytoplankton have a crucial role in the conversion of greenhouse gas sources and sinks in natural water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. In response to environmental changes, phytoplankton adapt by altering their carbon utilization strategies, which affect carbon fixation rates and [...] Read more.

Phytoplankton have a crucial role in the conversion of greenhouse gas sources and sinks in natural water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. In response to environmental changes, phytoplankton adapt by altering their carbon utilization strategies, which affect carbon fixation rates and carbon fluxes at the water–air interface. This paper classifies and summarizes the main carbon utilization strategies of phytoplankton in terms of carbon acquisition, carbon metabolism, and carbon emission. Their carbon acquisition strategy determines their carbon uptake rate, while their carbon metabolism strategy affects their carbon fixation potential. Moreover, their carbon emission strategy determines the final net carbon fixation. A systematic study of phytoplankton carbon utilization strategies is important for the development of phytoplankton-based wastewater treatment technologies, understanding of algal greenhouse gas fixation, and assessment of greenhouse gas sources and sinks in natural water bodies. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of the ecological role of phytoplankton in natural water bodies and offers valuable references for related research. Furthermore, our research sheds light on the carbon metabolism and emission processes of phytoplankton. By analyzing the carbon metabolism and emission of phytoplankton under different carbon utilization strategies, we can more accurately evaluate the impact of phytoplankton on the carbon cycle in natural water bodies, which can contribute to environmental protection and sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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17 pages, 5677 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Hydrogeochemical Characteristics and Environment Quality Assessment of Karst Groundwater in Mengzi Basin of Yunnan Province, China

by Xuchuan Duan, Zhiguo Sun, Shehong Li, Zhongcheng Jiang and Hongwei Liao

Water 2023, 15(11), 2126; https://doi.org/10.3390/w15112126 - 03 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1428

Abstract

One quarter of the world’s population uses karst groundwater. Due to the complex hydrological conditions in karst areas, they are vulnerable to pollution. The study of the hydrochemical characteristics and environmental quality evaluations of karst groundwater is of great significance for the rational [...] Read more.

One quarter of the world’s population uses karst groundwater. Due to the complex hydrological conditions in karst areas, they are vulnerable to pollution. The study of the hydrochemical characteristics and environmental quality evaluations of karst groundwater is of great significance for the rational development and utilization of karst groundwater. The study area is located in the Mengzi area of Yunnan Province, which is a typical karst area. The groundwater in the study area was analyzed and evaluated by a statistical analysis, hydrogeochemical analysis, ion ratio and Nemerow’s index method (P_N). The results show that the hydrochemical types are mainly the Ca–HCO₃ and Ca–Mg–HCO₃ types. The main hydrochemical compositions of groundwater were controlled by carbonate dissolution. The results of the water quality evaluation show that the main pollutants in the study area are Mn, COD and NO₃⁻. Compared with groundwater, the concentration and exceeding rate of pollutants in surface water are much higher than those in groundwater. There is the possibility of groundwater pollution by surface water infiltration. The results reveal the characteristics of groundwater pollution in typical karst areas and provide a theoretical basis for the rational development and utilization of groundwater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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15 pages, 5856 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Simulation on the Safety and Quality of Cementing by Using Pad Fluid in Horizontal Wells

by Ben Qi, Jiawen Fu, Jinfei Sun, Zaoyuan Li, Xin Yang, Fujie Yang and Xuning Wu

Energies 2023, 16(9), 3650; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16093650 - 24 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1055

Abstract

The failure of wellbore sealing will cause leakage of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, which will harm oil and gas recovery and environmental safety. Cementing is an important part of wellbore sealing. Only good cementing can keep the wellbore seal [...] Read more.

The failure of wellbore sealing will cause leakage of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, which will harm oil and gas recovery and environmental safety. Cementing is an important part of wellbore sealing. Only good cementing can keep the wellbore seal for a long time and improve the well life. In this study, we considered the construction of a horizontal shale oil well in eastern China as the background and analysed the rheological properties of the annulus fluid. We developed a displacement motion model and a calculation model for the annulus dynamic equivalent circulation density, and numerical simulations were used to study the impact of the dosage and injection sequence of the pad fluid on the displacement efficiency and annulus dynamic equivalent circulation density. The results show that when the pad fluid is composed completely of flushing fluid, the displacement performance is better than that of the spacer. By increasing the dosage of the flushing fluid from 0.3 times the annular volume to 1.0 times, the displacement efficiency can be increased by 3.3%, and the retention of the drilling fluid is also reduced by 3.6%. However, it can lead to a significant reduction in the annulus dynamic equivalent circulation density and increase in the risk of leakage. After adding the spacer, the structure of the flushing fluid–spacer provides the optimal injection sequence. Considering the application status in the field example well, it was shown that it can not only ensure the safety of cementing operations, but also improve the displacement efficiency. The results of this study have important theoretical significance and application value and can provide guidance for the optimisation design of the engineering scheme. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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12 pages, 2605 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Economic Analysis of Methanating CO₂ and Hydrogen-Rich Industrial Waste Gas in Depleted Natural Gas Reservoirs

by Zhengmeng Hou, Liangchao Huang, Yachen Xie, Lin Wu, Yanli Fang, Qichen Wang and Yilin Guo

Energies 2023, 16(9), 3633; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16093633 - 23 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1668

Abstract

This study explored underground biomethanation as a means to achieve carbon neutrality and promote carbon circular utilization by methanating CO₂ and hydrogen-rich industrial waste gas in depleted natural gas reservoirs (MECHIG). This approach not only aids the development of carbon capture, utilization, [...] Read more.

This study explored underground biomethanation as a means to achieve carbon neutrality and promote carbon circular utilization by methanating CO₂ and hydrogen-rich industrial waste gas in depleted natural gas reservoirs (MECHIG). This approach not only aids the development of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies, but also effectively processes industrial waste gas, thereby reducing pollutant emissions. In order to verify the feasibility of the MECHIG concept, this study builds upon the analysis of the MECHIG process overview and employs the net present value (NPV) analysis method to investigate its economic viability. Additionally, the study conducts a sensitivity analysis on six factors, namely methanation efficiency, facility site investment, hydrogen content in waste gas, natural gas prices, operation and maintenance (O&M) investment, and CO₂ capture and injection prices. The results indicate the following: (1) Under the baseline scenario, the NPV of the MECHIG concept is approximately CNY 5,035,100, which suggests that the concept may be economically viable. (2) The fluctuation in natural gas prices has the most significant impact on NPV, followed by facility site investment and methanation efficiency. In contrast, the variations in hydrogen content in waste gas, O&M investment, and CO₂ capture and injection prices have relatively smaller effects on NPV. (3) To ensure the economic feasibility of the concept, the acceptable fluctuation ranges for the factors of methanation efficiency, facility site investment, hydrogen content in waste gas, natural gas prices, O&M investment, and CO₂ capture and injection prices are −16.78%, 5.44%, −32.14%, −4.70%, 14.86%, and 18.56%, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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21 pages, 12562 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Reservoir Heterogeneity on CO₂ Flooding in Tight Oil Reservoirs

by Jiashun Luo, Zhengmeng Hou, Guoqing Feng, Jianxing Liao, Muhammad Haris and Ying Xiong

Energies 2022, 15(9), 3015; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15093015 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2399

Abstract

Carbon dioxide (CO₂)-enhanced oil recovery (EOR) has great potential and opportunity for further development, and it is one of the vital carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies. However, strong heterogeneity is one of the several challenges in developing reservoirs, especially [...] Read more.

Carbon dioxide (CO₂)-enhanced oil recovery (EOR) has great potential and opportunity for further development, and it is one of the vital carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies. However, strong heterogeneity is one of the several challenges in developing reservoirs, especially for China’s continental tight oil reserves. This study investigates the effects of heterogeneous porosity and permeability on CO₂ flooding evolution in low-permeable tight formation. We simulated CO₂-EOR using a numerical model developed on the platform of TOUGH2MP-TMVOC to evaluate the effect of different levels of heterogeneity on oil production, gas storage, and flow behaviors in a tight reservoir, controlled by standard deviation and correlation length. A comparison of nine cases reveals that porosity heterogeneity commonly intensifies flow channeling, and there is an oil production decline with higher standard deviation and longer correlation length of porosity field. In addition, the porosity correlation length has a negligible effect on reservoir performance when the standard deviation is relatively low. Furthermore, strong heterogeneity also has a negative impact on the storage capacity of CO₂ and oil production. Notably, as the standard deviation was raised to 0.1, a small sweep region arose with the early CO₂ breakthrough, which led to a worse flooding effect. Finally, this study exemplifies that a higher injection/production rate and CO₂ alternating N₂ injection strategies can improve oil recovery in highly heterogeneous reservoirs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Carbon-Energy-Water Nexus in Global Energy Transition)

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