Sarawak’s strategic location and extensive oil and gas expertise position it as a potential leader in regional carbon capture and storage (CCS) services, according to a senior Shell executive.
Zharin Zhafrael Mohd, Shell’s General Manager for CCS Asia Pacific, highlighted Sarawak’s offshore capacity for carbon storage as a significant advantage. Speaking to The Borneo Post, she noted that the state’s infrastructure and forward-looking initiatives, including the Sarawak Gas Roadmap, create an optimal environment for developing CCS, hydrogen, and hydropower capabilities.
“With the infrastructure Sarawak has and the vision outlined in the Sarawak Gas Roadmap, particularly in CCS and renewable energy, the state is well-positioned to become a regional CCS service provider,” Zharin said.
Her comments came during an event in Singapore marking the arrival of the Northern Pathfinder, one of the world’s first liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) carriers designed for large-scale CCS operations. The vessel is part of the Northern Lights Joint Venture (NLJV), a partnership between Shell, Norway’s Equinor, and France’s TotalEnergies. The NLJV aims to offer the first-ever commercial CO2 transport and storage services.
Evaluating Sarawak’s Offshore Potential
Shell is currently assessing two fields in Central Luconia, offshore Sarawak, in collaboration with Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros). Zharin explained that the company is closely examining the feasibility of carbon storage in the area.
“Petros initiated the Sarawak Bid Round for CCS last year, which we participated in,” she said. “Shell has a long-standing presence in Malaysia, especially in Sarawak, and we have a deep understanding of the region’s geological structures.”
She added that Shell is also evaluating opportunities in West Luconia, with plans to broaden its exploration across the state. “We see significant potential in Sarawak and are committed to expanding our efforts moving forward.”
Advancing CCS Innovation in Asia Pacific
During the Singapore event, Zharin delivered a presentation on “Unlocking the Potential of Cross-Border CCS in Asia Pacific,” addressing industry leaders and Shell representatives aboard the Northern Pathfinder.
The Northern Pathfinder, part of a cutting-edge fleet, is designed to transport liquefied CO2 safely from European capture sites to the Northern Lights terminal in Øygarden, Norway. Developed by Shell and constructed by China’s Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co Ltd, the vessel’s journey spans approximately 28,000 kilometers and is expected to take 45 days, including a stopover in Singapore for refueling.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
As global demand for CCS solutions grows, Sarawak’s potential as a regional hub underscores its importance in the energy transition. With partnerships like the NLJV and ongoing collaboration with Petros, Sarawak could play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions across Asia Pacific.
Zharin concluded, “Sarawak’s proactive approach and established infrastructure set it apart as an exciting prospect for advancing CCS in the region.”
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