Northern Lights: Innovating for the Future of Carbon Transport and Storage

Abstract The Northern Lights project is a pioneering initiative in carbon capture and storage (CCS), representing one of the most advanced and large-scale efforts to reduce carbon emissions in Europe. The project is a key component of Norway's broader climate strategy and is supported by major industry players, including Equinor, Shell, and TotalEnergies. A crucial aspect of the project is its partnership with Microsoft, which has brought cutting-edge digital solutions to optimize the CCS value chain. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the Northern Lights project, focusing on the role of digital technologies, particularly those provided by Microsoft, in enhancing the efficiency, scalability, and security of carbon storage operations. The paper also examines the broader implications of the project for global decarbonization efforts and the potential for CCS to play a central role in achieving net-zero emissions.