A Play-Based Exploration of CCS in the Illinois Basin
Background
The project team has developed an integrated geospatial database that includes subsurface, surface, and societal data relevant to the consideration of CCS site suitability. This data is being used in a play-based exploration and analysis of Cambro-Ordovician strata in Illinois to identify areas of the state that are suitable for carbon storage site development.
This project website was created to provide access to the data and play maps developed during the project, along with proper context, and to document and share the methodologies used to build the integrated geospatial database and conduct the play analysis.
This was a two-year research project funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (award number DE-FE0032366), and the Prairie Research Institute’s Illinois State Geological Survey.
Introduction to CCS in the Illinois Basin
View this StoryMap to learn about the basics of CCS.
Project Objectives
The objective of this project was to build a geodatabase using existing subsurface, surface, and societal data for entities screening areas of Illinois for commercial geologic carbon storage.
- Test the geodatabase using play-based exploration and analysis methods to create composite maps that clearly delineate areas in the state with the highest suitability for CCS site development.
- Provide the public with access to the geodatabase and resulting composite maps, specifically those screening Illinois for commercial CCS sites or those potentially impacted by the development of such sites.
Success Depends on Trust and Collaboration
Project developers, local governments, property owners, and other stakeholders must work together to ensure the shared benefits of CCS development, including improved environmental quality, economic opportunities, and safe operations.
This website supports that effort. The play-based exploration presented here provides data and communication tools to help all stakeholders make informed decisions and achieve these goals.
Workflow
This project used a play-based exploration method for CCS, which is adaptable to different regions or other subsurface energy applications.
Learn about the workflow
Play Elements
Play elements from subsurface, surface, and societal groups were used in this project and the data can be downloaded for use in other projects.
Explore the play elements
Results
Composite maps show a fairway across much of Illinois, primarily within the southern half of the state, with the potential for suitable CCS sites.
View the results