Investigating Geological Formations for Viable CCS in West Kuwait

This paper outlines the findings of a comprehensive subsurface assessment conducted to evaluate the feasibility of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in West Kuwait. The study was a collaboration between Kuwait Oil Corporation (KOC) and DeGolyer and MacNaughton (D&M) as part of Kuwait's Phase 1 decarbonization program to reduce carbon emissions by safe and long-term sequestration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in subsurface geological formations. The primary objective of this assessment was to identify and evaluate suitable reservoirs for large-scale CO2 storage and ensure that they meet the criteria for CO2 injectivity, containment, and long-term CO2 storage. The study focused on the formations in West Kuwait from the Zubair to Ahmadi Formations (Figure 1) and includes a detailed analysis of their geological, petrophysical, and geomechanical properties. Ultimately, the Burgan Formation was identified as the most promising candidate for large-scale CO2 storage due to its excellent reservoir properties, significant storage potential, and the presence of multiple sealing layers. This paper provides an account of the screening process, modeling efforts, and recommendations for the successful implementation of the CCS project.