Wyoming CarbonSAFE is focused on investigating the feasibility of practical, secure, permanent, geologic storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from coal-based electricity generation facilities near Gillette, Wyoming.
Several deep geologic rock layers are being studied for their suitability in permanently storing CO2. These include CO2 storage zones and cap rocks, which seal the storage zone and keep the CO2 contained. Potential storage zones being investigated are deep sandstone layers including the Muddy, Lakota and Fall River (Dakota Group), Lower Sundance, and Minnelusa Formations. These formations are overlain by thousands of feet of impermeable rock, which would ensure permanent containment of fluids within the potential storage zones.
The feasibility study will include the collection of data from these formations, obtaining and analyzing geologic samples, and using the results of the analyses to create geologic computer models in which to test storage scenarios. The feasibility study will also investigate regulatory and business issues related to implementing a CO2 storage site in the region