Drafting a monitoring plan for the ROAD project under the EU CCS Directive
The Rotterdam Capture and Storage Demonstration Project (ROAD) is an integrated CCS project in the Netherlands that has recently completed the storage permitting process. Development of the monitoring and contingency plans is a key component of this process. Our paper discusses the development of the monitoring and contingency plans, The project is technically relatively simple in comparison to other CO2 storage projects, with a single well penetrating the reservoir and minimum equipment installed on the platform offshore. In spite of this, a most thorough approach to monitoring will be adopted. As new techniques and equipment are developed, these will be included whenever judged appropriate and in addition, provided that these techniques do not add to the complexity associated with operating an offshore, unmanned installation that will be producing hydrocarbons continuously throughout much of the project timeline. Overall, the ROAD traffic light approach promotes transparency and provides the flexibility to adjust the monitoring plan based on data and modelling results becoming available as the project progresses. The philosophy relies on consistency of the monitoring plan and contingency plans with the risk management and closure plans as well as on regular communication with the Competent Authority and stakeholders at every stage of the project.