KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Western Michigan University has received a $5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to help mitigate the effects of climate change.
WMU received a grant from the department’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management aimed at advancing commercial-scale carbon capture, transportation and storage.
“We're really excited about this, and we think this is important not only for Western Michigan but for other universities because carbon capture, utilization and storage requires a multidisciplinary approach, and there's no one better suited to lead the way than the university,” said Dr. Autumn Haagsma, associate director of Western's Michigan Geological Survey.
CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage) is a technology that removes carbon emissions from their sources, such as industrial plants and factories. The carbon is then stored underground so that it has no impact on climate change.
The Michigan Basin has been highlighted as the area with the greatest potential for CCU, with experts saying it could store at least 70 gigatons of CO2 within five major reservoirs.
WMU students will have a direct stake in the project's innovation by participating in research opportunities, as well as paid summer internships scheduled to begin in the summer of 2025.
The WMU project will be led by a team from the Michigan Geological Survey, officials said. Other contributors include:
Battelle – The world's largest nonprofit research and development company will assist with 3D modeling and scenario execution efforts to understand how efforts will impact the subsurface. Carbon Solutions – This Michigan-based company will lead the analysis of transportation routes. Miami University – This university will assess the potential risks of CCUS. Michigan Technological University – This UP university will further explore the potential of different types of CO2 storage. National Tribal Energy Association – This organization will help connect and communicate with tribal members. Rock Locker – This Michigan-based company, founded by WMU alumni, will analyze synergies and competitive uses of subsurface areas. University of Michigan – Researchers will explore carbon utilization opportunities and conduct a life cycle analysis.
WMU is one of nine industry and university leaders selected for this type of grant. The grant will be awarded for three years.
