Future Proofing MMV Plans for CCS Through Digital Twins

Abstract As the world seeks to mitigate the impact of climate change, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects have emerged as a vital strategy to capture and store carbon dioxide emissions from industrial sources. A key element in ensuring the success of these projects is the Monitoring, Measurement, and Verification (MMV) plan. The MMV plan plays a pivotal role in the field/storage development plan, covering aspects such as geological site selection, transportation, and storage processes. Its primary purpose is to ensure that the injected CO2 is safely contained and that its migration within the storage site is carefully monitored and technically verified. This work introduces the concept of integrating Digital Twin technology into MMV plans for CCS projects, offering a real-time, highly accurate 3D model of a CO2 storage site. A Digital Twin is continuously updated with data from measurement tools installed at the site and simulates dynamic, geomechanical, and geochemical changes. This allows for the prediction of future CO2 injection performance and the identification of parameters that may pose a risk to containment integrity. To streamline and automate this process, the integration of a Simultaneous Operations (SimOps) platform is essential. The SimOps platform automates the process by utilizing advanced optimization techniques and embedded uncertainty quantification models. This platform can automatically sample data from physics solvers (e.g., CMG, Eclipse, Visage) and generate accurate scenario simulations. When applied to MMV plans, a Digital Twin, referred to here as a "Digital Performance Twin," enhances the ability to monitor and manage storage sites. It provides real-time insights into the performance of CO2 storage systems, enabling operators to detect anomalies, assess risks, and take proactive measures to prevent containment failures. Successful implementation of Digital Twin technology in CCS projects relies on advanced simulations. Integration of Digital Twin technology into MMV plans can identify potential issues early, reducing the risk of containment failure and ensuring long-term security of storage sites along with significant improvements in time consumed for simulating various scenarios. Further, it allows for optimization of monitoring tools and operational strategies thereby helping with rationalization of MMV CAPEX and OPEX offers several significant benefits. Digital Twins provide accurate data on CCS performance aiding regulatory compliance and their integration into MMV plans enhances CCS project security, efficiency, and adaptability, supporting the project towards long-term sustainability and success.