CO2 on track
Developing best practices in CO2 transport by train
Challenge
DNV’s CCS Energy Transition Outlook, published in June 2025, highlights that carbon capture and storage (CCS) is at a pivotal moment, with global capture and storage capacity projected to quadruple by 2030. In this context, efficiently linking capture sites to storage locations is becoming increasingly critical. Four transport modes are currently viable: pipelines and ships –more mature and widely deployed– and trains and trucks, which are gaining traction for several applications.
Transporting CO2 by train offers a promising solution for accelerating CCS deployment, particularly in regions lacking pipeline infrastructure or facing long permitting timelines. Rail networks offer a flexible and scalable alternative, enabling captured CO2 to be moved efficiently from industrial sources to storage sites or utilization hubs. This can unlock CCS potential for dispersed emitters and early-stage projects, lowering upfront capital costs and accelerating implementation.
Solutions
The ‘CO2 on Track’ joint industry project aims to identify knowledge gaps and key technical challenges in CO2 rail transport. The proposed work packages outlined below will be finalized with the industry partners.
Develop best practices for CO2 transfer
Cover the full operational chain of CO2 rail transport, including safe loading procedures, methods for securing cargo during transit, continuous monitoring of railcars, and standardized unloading protocols at destination sites.
Define design guidelines for CO2 pressure vessels
Establish technical specifications for material selection, corrosion resistance, insulation, and pressure/temperature conditions to ensure safe, reliable, and cost-effective containment during transport.
Establish safety and risk management frameworks for CO2 rail transport
Create methodologies to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement mitigation measures. This includes emergency response planning and compliance with relevant rail and hazardous goods regulations.
Identify the main economic drivers
Break down investment and operating cost components, and benchmark them against industry data.
Project details
Location: Global
Date: 2026
To discuss participation in the CO2 on Track joint industry project, please contact Alessandro Bove.