Why CCUS

Appalachia is in a new era of growth — and a defining race to lead the future of energy. Carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) is how we rise to that challenge, delivering energy that is affordable, reliable and low carbon. By permanently storing carbon dioxide (CO₂) deep underground — and using it to increase production from existing wells — CCUS unlocks the full potential of the region’s prolific natural gas assets, strengthening communities and creating lasting value for generations.
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The CCUS Process
CCUS is a proven process that captures, transports and securely stores CO₂ — turning emissions into opportunity by supporting decarbonization and enhancing asset performance.
Capture
Transport
Storage
Utilization

Capture

CO2 is captured before it enters the atmosphere. It is then purified and compressed into a liquid-like form.

Transport

CO₂ is transported through specialized, highly monitored and regulated steel pipelines to a storage well.

Storage

Storage occurs deep underground, where it is safely isolated far beneath freshwater and deposited into a targeted geologic layer where it fills in the gaps in naturally porous rock and is permanently sealed above by a thick layer of impermeable rock.

Utilization

CO2 can be used to enhance oil and natural gas recovery. When deposited into mature reservoirs, it can help release additional oil and natural gas, significantly improving the production of wells.

Captured carbon can also be used to create essential products such as concrete, fuels and chemicals — turning CO2 emissions into building blocks for new industries.

How a Target Site is Selected

Geologists identify areas where porous rock layers are naturally sealed by thick, impermeable layers known as cap rock.

Once a site is selected, equipment is used to drill the storage well and build the pipeline. Afterwards, the surface is restored to the owner’s expectations. Landowners are compensated for the use of their land, both above and below ground.

CCUS is a Safe Process

A graphic that reads, "Globally, nearly 400 million tons of CO2 have been safely stored using CCUS".
A graphic that reads, "Over 900 large-scale CCUS projects are under development, operating, or under construction."
Safety is foundational. The U.S. has a century of underground storage experience, and each CCUS site undergoes rigorous permitting and oversight by the EPA or authorized state agencies. Permitting, operation, testing and long-term monitoring adhere to strict standards, and wells are continuously monitored twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, three-hundred-sixty-five days a year.
An overview of a field

Fueling Prosperity

CCUS can unleash new economic opportunities across Appalachia, attracting investment from advanced manufacturing, technology and infrastructure projects, while supporting job creation and community benefits. By addressing emissions and enhancing natural gas recovery from existing wells, CCUS is a pathway to long-term regional prosperity and environmental stewardship.

EQT: Powering Innovation for a Stronger Energy Future

At EQT, we are committed to leading responsibly — competing to deliver energy solutions that are affordable, reliable and low carbon. By pairing our operational expertise with CCUS innovation, we’re advancing emissions management while unlocking the full potential of our energy assets and driving progress for our communities, customers and stakeholders.
EQT Workers looking at a clipboard and working on site