EGEE 101
Energy and the Environment

Sequestration: Part 3 - In Oil fields

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While oil fields are not exactly a great big hole in the ground (remember it is a porous rock that contains the oil), there are lots of small holes and they can be filled with CO2. If the field is still producing it has the added effect of enhancing the oil extraction process (enhanced oil recovery). Remember that associated natural gas helps to provide the pressure so that the oil will freely flow out of the ground (so you do not have to pump). This is very similar and is a technology that is being used.

If the oil field is not producing then you will not obtain any extra oil or gas but you might benefit from capping the abandoned natural gas wells that are leaking methane into the atmosphere.

 Map of the United States showing the major oil fields.
The US has large oil fields and many are below existing power plants. Notice too that the >1,000 MW power plants are relatively few in number (about 100).
Credit: NETL
 Picture of a nodding donkey pumping oil out of the ground.
A nodding donkey which is slowly pumping oil out of the ground.
Credit: EPA