Governments and businesses are investing heavily in carbon capture and storage (CCS) to meet climate goals and decarbonize heavy industries. With nearly $80 billion in investment expected to flow into the sector in the coming years, carbon capture is becoming a central part of global climate strategies. Reports say global CCS capacity might grow four times by 2030. This shows big advances in technology, funding, and teamwork across countries.

Why Is CCS Gaining So Much Attention?

Carbon capture and storage is a process that captures carbon dioxide (CO₂) from industrial and energy-related sources before it reaches the atmosphere. It then stores the carbon underground in geological formations.

CCS works well in sectors like cement, steel, and fossil fuel plants. These areas are tough to decarbonize with just renewable energy.

• According to DNV’s 2025 Energy Transition Outlook: CCS to 2050 report, cumulative global investment in CCS could reach $80 billion over the next five years, or by 2030. This represents 270 million tons of carbon dioxide captured (MtCO2) each year. 

A notable example is a $500 million agreement between Occidental Petroleum and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). They will build a big direct air capture (DAC) facility in Texas.

The deal shows the growing global interest in CCS. It’s not just about cutting emissions; it’s also about creating carbon removal solutions that support other climate efforts.

Experts agree that CCS isn’t a complete solution. However, it plays a key role by tackling emissions that other technologies can’t remove. It is also one of the few methods available today for carbon dioxide removal, a crucial component for meeting long-term climate targets.

How Fast Is CCS Capacity Growing?

The global CCS capacity is expected to grow fourfold by 2030, according to the DNV report. From around 50 million tonnes of CO₂ captured annually today, capacity could rise to more than 550 million tonnes per year by the end of the decade. This would represent around 6% of today’s energy-related global emissions.

This growth requires major investment in infrastructure, including new carbon pipelines, storage hubs, and large-scale capture facilities. North America and Europe are expected to lead the expansion. They could make up more than 80% of the expected CCS capacity by 2030. This is due to helpful climate policies, funding incentives, and established infrastructure.

In the U.S., the Inflation Reduction Act drives CCS growth. It offers tax credits up to $85 for each metric ton of CO₂ captured and stored permanently. Similarly, the European Union supports CCS through its Innovation Fund, with countries like Norway and the Netherlands building cross-border carbon storage networks in the North Sea.

• RELEVANT: Netherlands Invests $726 Million in Aramis CCS as Shell and Total Shift Strategies

Emerging markets are also entering the CCS space. In Asia, Japan and South Korea have begun planning domestic CCS facilities and exploring regional carbon storage partnerships.

Smart Tech, Lower Costs: CCS Innovation Takes Off

Technology is central to making CCS more effective and affordable. Current advancements include improved solvents for carbon capture, modular DAC units, and more efficient CO₂ transport and storage systems. These innovations help lower energy use and cut costs.

A 2023 report from the Energy Futures Initiative (EFI) says CCS costs might drop by 40% by 2050. This could happen because of better technology and larger production. New digital tools, like AI monitoring systems, are being tested. They track carbon storage performance in real time and help ensure long-term safety.

Data centers in the U.S. are beginning to integrate CCS into their sustainability efforts. For example, Microsoft is partnering with firms like Heirloom and CarbonCapture to buy permanent carbon removal credits backed by CCS. These partnerships show how CCS is moving beyond industrial use and into corporate sustainability strategies.

Hybrid projects, combining renewable energy with CCS, are also on the rise. These include bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), where biomass is used for power generation and the CO₂ is captured. This type of system can result in net-negative emissions—removing more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits.

How Do Policy and Carbon Markets Influence CCS Growth?

Strong policy support is driving CCS development. In the U.S., the Section 45Q tax credit offers financial incentives for both point-source carbon capture and DAC projects. The Department of Energy also provides funding for demonstration and early-stage CCS projects.

Globally, carbon markets are beginning to recognize the role of CCS. The voluntary carbon market (VCM) and compliance markets in California and the EU Emissions Trading System are considering or already using CCS-based credits.

In 2024, the global carbon market was valued at around $1.4 billion according to MSCI, with voluntary carbon credit transaction volumes declining but demand remaining steady. Projections suggest it could grow significantly, reaching between $7 billion and $35 billion by 2030.

Longer-term forecasts estimate the market could expand to as much as $250 billion by 2050. This is driven by increasing corporate climate commitments and demand for high-quality carbon removal credits.

High-quality carbon credits from CCS projects could play a major role in this growth. Projects that use strict measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) protocols can attract higher prices. This applies in both voluntary and regulatory markets.

Wood Mackenzie estimates the U.S. CCUS (carbon capture, utilization, and storage) sector could offer a $196 billion investment opportunity over the next 10 years. This is especially true for the oil, gas, chemical, and power industries.

Meanwhile, countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK are developing shared CCS “hub” models—regional centers that link multiple emission sources to centralized storage facilities. These hubs lower costs and speed up development by pooling resources and infrastructure.

A Critical Piece of the Climate Puzzle

By 2030, global CCS projects could capture between 430 and 550 million tonnes of CO₂ each year. This is a big step forward, but it’s not enough. Experts say we need 1.3 billion tonnes per year by mid-century to meet the Paris Agreement goals.

Still, CCS plays a unique and necessary role in cutting emissions where alternatives are limited. The technology’s capture capacity will grow to 1,300 MtCO2/yr. It also supports the production of low-carbon hydrogen, decarbonized fuels, and sustainable building materials.

However, some environmental groups caution that CCS must be applied carefully. Using captured carbon for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) can hurt climate efforts. This happens if it isn’t combined with limits on fossil fuel use.

Clear governance, independent checks, and science-based standards are key to making sure CCS projects truly help climate goals. While it is not a silver bullet, CCS can buy time and cut emissions in sectors that are difficult to decarbonize with renewables alone.

As global capacity grows and costs drop, CCS will likely be key to climate strategies. This includes energy efficiency, clean fuels, and electrification. Continued collaboration among stakeholders, significant investment, and communities’ support will be key to making carbon capture and storage both scalable and sustainable.

• READ MORE: Carbfix Secures First EU Permit for Onshore Carbon Capture and Storage

The post Global Investment in CCS Surges Toward $80 Billion as Climate Goals Drive Demand appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Fervo Energy, a U.S.-based startup focused on next-generation geothermal power, recently announced a $206 million fundraising round to progress its Cape Station project in southwest Utah. This financing includes venture capital and energy investors. It adds to Fervo’s earlier $556 million in equity and $220 million in debt. Now, their total capital is almost $1 billion.

Fracking for Heat: How Fervo’s EGS Breakthrough Works

Fervo employs Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS), which borrow technology from oil and gas drilling. It uses deep, horizontal wells and hydraulic stimulation to create heat zones in dry rock—sometimes called “fracking for heat”.

In Nevada, Fervo’s pilot “Project Red” previously generated 3.5 MW with steady flow rates of 60 L/s, validating the EGS model. Cape Station will stack multiple horizontal wells to boost output to 400 MW by 2028.

The Utah project aims to deliver 100 MW of power by 2026 and scale to 500 MW by 2028—enough to supply nearly 500,000 homes. Fervo has sales agreements, including one for 320 MW with Southern California Edison. They plan to build the largest enhanced geothermal system plant in the world.

To fund this growth, Fervo raised $100 million from Breakthrough Energy Catalyst, $60 million in loan upsizing from Mercuria, and $45.6 million in bridge debt from XRL-ALC. Chief Financial Officer David Ulrey remarked on this significant fund raise, noting:

“These investments demonstrate what we’ve known all along: Fervo’s combination of technical excellence, commercial readiness, and market opportunity makes us a natural partner for serious energy capital.”

Hot Commodity: Why Geothermal Is Gaining Global Ground

Geothermal energy is becoming popular globally because it offers steady power all day. In 2023, its capacity utilization was 75%. In comparison, wind energy was at 30%, and solar was at 15%.

The broader geothermal market (including heat pumps) topped $7.5 billion in 2023 and could reach $9.2 billion by 2030, growing at about 3.1% annually. By mid-century, geothermal could play a major role in the clean energy mix.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts 800 GW of added geothermal capacity by 2050, supplying 15% of new electricity. In the U.S. alone, Enhanced Geothermal Systems may fill 90 GW of firm, zero-carbon power needs by 2050—enough for 65 million homes.

EGS sits at the cutting edge of geothermal technology. A Market Research Future study shows more rapid expansion, projecting growth from $6.9 billion in 2024 to $14.1 billion by 2034, at a 7.4% growth rate.

Notably, governments, oil and gas firms, and utilities are increasingly investing in geothermal energy. If next-generation technologies achieve major cost reductions, cumulative global investment could reach $1 trillion by 2035 and $2.5 trillion by 2050.

Annual investment may peak at $140 billion, surpassing today’s global spending on onshore wind. As a dispatchable and clean power source, geothermal is attracting interest beyond traditional energy players.

Tech companies, in particular, are eyeing geothermal to meet the rising electricity demands of data centers. These tech giants are also considering this clean energy source for their emission reductions and net-zero targets.

• RELEVANT: Meta’s Bold Bet on Geothermal Energy and Carbon Footprint Reduction

Geothermal Energy’s Role in Reducing Greenhouse Gases 

Geothermal power plays a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to fossil fuels. Lifecycle studies, like those from the IPCC, show that geothermal electricity emits only 38–45 grams of CO₂ equivalent per kWh.

In comparison, coal emits 820 g CO₂/kWh, and natural gas emits 490 g CO₂/kWh. This means geothermal emits about 90% less CO₂ (or even up to 99%) than traditional power plants and ranks among the cleanest electricity sources.

Enhanced Geothermal Systems can reduce emissions over time. They may reach as low as 10 g CO₂/kWh. This is achieved by reinjecting geothermal fluids and reducing natural gas leakage.

With favorable global deployment, geothermal power could cut 500 million metric tons of CO₂ from electricity and 1.25 billion metric tons from heating and cooling by 2050. That’s like removing 26 million cars from the roads every year.

Geothermal energy is reliable 24/7. This means less dependence on carbon-heavy sources, like natural gas. That value rises as renewables like solar and wind grow because geothermal energy can smooth out fluctuations.

Moreover, geothermal energy has low emissions and reliable performance. It supports clean energy systems, reduces fossil fuel use, and helps countries meet climate goals. This makes it a strong ally in the battle against global warming.

High Stakes, High Rewards: The Economics Behind the Heat

Geothermal energy needs no fuel and offers stable costs, but initial development is expensive. Drilling accounts for over half its capital cost.

A typical geothermal well pair costs around $10 million for 4.5 MW, but EGS wells may exceed $4 million per MW. Studies show a 20% failure rate on wells—that means one in five dry holes.

However, costs are dropping. The U.S. aims for a capital cost of $3,700 per kW by 2035. This is a big drop from about $28,000 per kW in 2021. As a result, the LCOE could reach $45 per MWh. This would make it competitive with solar and wind-plus-storage. 

Congress and the Department of Energy support this shift, funding projects like Utah’s FORGE site, which de-risks new well and drilling methods and shares insights with startups like Fervo.

Geothermal also brings strong economic returns. Fervo estimates its Utah site will support 6,000 construction jobs and generate $437 million in local wages.

What’s Next for Fervo—and for the Future of Clean Baseload

While geothermal shows promise, Fervo and the broader industry face challenges. Each well costs tens of millions, and drilling carries technical risk and potential delays. EGS also faces regulatory hurdles and community concerns—especially in Southeast Asia, where rules and local engagement vary widely.

Globally, however, momentum is building. Governments aim for $1.7–2.9 trillion in nuclear and geothermal investment by 2050, with geothermal carving out a growing share. Private investors and tech firms are joining, and public research supports cost reductions and scalability.

Fervo’s upcoming Cape Station plant—with financing, off-take deals, and strong technology performance—could serve as a model for future geothermal development. If drilling costs fall and projects deliver on forecasts, geothermal may become a cornerstone of the clean-energy grid.

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Silver is emerging as one of the most critical metals in the global shift toward green energy and high-tech innovation. While traditionally seen as a precious metal, silver now plays a central role in multiple industries—from solar energy and electric vehicles to medical devices and water purification.

Silver Goes Green: The Metal Powering a Sustainable Tomorrow

Unlike gold, which is primarily held as a store of value, silver enjoys strong industrial demand, making it a dynamic asset for investors. And in 2025, silver’s story is being driven by two big forces: skyrocketing green tech demand and tight supply.

Electronics and EV Growth

Silver is unmatched when it comes to electrical conductivity. It’s found in almost every smartphone, laptop, and electric car. The electronics industry alone consumed more than 200 million ounces of silver back in 2018, and that number is rising fast.

As electric vehicles become more popular, the metal’s demand can surge even further. Hybrid and EV production is expected to triple silver use in the auto sector by 2040, according to the Silver Institute.

Solar Power Surge

Silver is also a key ingredient in photovoltaic (PV) cells—the heart of solar panels. In 2025, silver demand from the solar sector is projected to account for 14% of global demand, up from 5% in 2014. Even as manufacturers reduce silver use per panel, the explosive growth in solar installations is driving total consumption higher. The Silver Institute expects a 20% increase in the solar PV market this year alone.

Other Green Uses:

Silver’s antimicrobial properties make it valuable for medical devices and coatings that prevent infections. It’s also used in catalysts to produce ethylene oxide, a critical compound for eco-friendly materials like antifreeze and textiles. On top of that, silver nanoparticles are now helping purify drinking water, a game-changing solution for underserved regions.

Silver Market 2025: Deficit Holds as Industrial Demand Breaks Records

The Silver Institute has highlighted that the global silver market is on track to post its fifth straight annual deficit in 2025. Although the shortfall may shrink by 19% to 149 million ounces (Moz), it will still remain one of the largest in recent years.

Let’s study how experts at The Silver Institute have portrayed the details of the silver market this year.

Industrial Demand Breaks New Ground

Global silver demand will hold steady at 1.20 billion ounces, with industrial use driving the market. As said before, silver demand in clean energy, electronics, and electric vehicles continues to climb. Industrial fabrication is set to rise by 3%, topping 700 Moz for the first time.

Photovoltaic installations will hit new highs despite policy shifts in the U.S., while vehicle electrification and AI-powered devices will further boost silver consumption. Demand will also grow in the ethylene oxide sector and brazing alloys.

Investment Rebounds, Jewelry Slows

Physical silver investment will rise by 3% as investors in Europe and North America adapt to higher prices. Easing profit-taking will also support the uptick. However, high local prices will likely prompt some Indian investors to sell, limiting the global recovery.

Jewelry demand is expected to drop by 6%. In India, soaring prices will drive a double-digit decline, while cautious spending in China will further weigh on sales. Western markets may hold up better as consumers shift from gold to branded silver jewelry. Meanwhile, global silverware demand will fall by 16%, led by a steep decline in Indian purchases.

• READ MORE: BloombergNEF Reveals Mining Needs $2.1 Trillion by 2050 to Fuel Net-Zero Raw Material Demand. Where Does Silver Stand? 

Supply Grows but Still Lags Behind Demand

Silver supply will grow by 3% to reach 1.05 billion ounces, the highest level in over a decade. Mine production will increase by 2% to 844 Moz, with expansions underway in China, Canada, Chile, and Morocco.

Silver recycling will rise by 5%, crossing the 200 Moz mark for the first time since 2012. Industrial scrap and India’s price-led recycling of jewelry and silverware will drive this growth. However, this supply is still in deficit for the growing demand.

Why Silver Stocks Are Heating Up in 2025

Silver stocks are gaining attention in 2025 as strong demand and tight supply push prices higher. It’s trading around $36.73/oz in June 2025 and is widely expected to break past $40/oz by mid-year.

Furthermore, as industrial use of silver is growing fast, especially in solar panels, electric vehicles, and electronics, it’s helping silver companies grow and attract more investors.

At the same time, mine supply isn’t keeping up. Many new projects are delayed, and that’s limiting how much silver can be produced. This supply gap is boosting silver prices and making silver stocks more valuable.

Investors are also buying silver as a safe bet during uncertain times. The Silver Institute also pointed out that with high inflation, rising U.S. debt, and global trade tensions, many people are turning to silver as both a store of value and a key industrial metal.

Additionally, government support for clean energy is also lifting demand for silver. As this trend continues, silver stocks are set to benefit even more in 2025.

So, for investors looking to ride this wave, silver stocks offer high-leverage exposure to rising prices.

Top 3 Silver Stocks to Buy Now

These companies stand out for their performance, business models, and exposure to rising silver demand:

1. Wheaton Precious Metals (WPM)

Vancouver-based Wheaton is a top streaming company. Instead of mining, it signs contracts to buy silver and gold from other miners at fixed, low costs. This model reduces risk, ensures consistent margins, and lets Wheaton profit from price gains without high operating costs.

The company’s attributable silver production for 2025 is forecast at 20.5 to 22.5 million ounces

• Stock Strength: WPM returned 54% in the last year and is up 133% over five years.
• Investor Appeal: Ideal for conservative investors looking for reliable exposure to silver with less volatility than direct mining.

ESG Strategy

Wheaton plans to cut Scope 2 emissions by 50% by 2030 from a 2018 baseline of 38.5 tCO₂e. By 2040, it aims to align 80% of its Scope 3 financed emissions with 1.5˚C reduction targets.

It funds climate solutions at partner sites and industry-wide to support the mining sector’s low-carbon shift. Its Climate Solutions Committee backs clean tech, innovation, and decarbonization projects. The company also launched the Future of Mining Challenge to promote emerging climate technologies.

2. Pan American Silver (PAAS)

Pan American Silver is one of the largest silver producers globally, with operations across Latin America. The company benefits from large economies, geographic diversity, and exposure to both silver and gold. La Colorada of Mexico is one of the company’s flagship mines, producing 7.1 million ounces (Moz) of silver in 2017.

• Stock Strength: PAAS delivered 48% gains over one year and recently acquired Tahoe Resources to expand its footprint.
• Investor Appeal: Great for investors who want exposure to mining operations and are looking for long-term production growth.

2025 Energy and Emissions Reduction Goals

PAAS’s latest sustainability report highlights that by 2025, the company aims to cut energy use by 67,000 GJ—around 1.1% of its projected total—and lower GHG emissions by 27,500 tCO₂e, or about 8.2% of its 2025 base case.

It also reaffirms its broader goal to reduce global Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by at least 30% by 2030.

3. MAG Silver (MAG)

MAG Silver is focused on developing high-grade silver projects, most notably the Juanicipio project in Mexico, in partnership with Fresnillo. The Juanicipio mine is one of the most promising silver projects globally, with low costs and strong margins.

• Stock Strength: The stock surged 40% in the last year, with a 38% gain in the past six months as production ramped up.
• Investor Appeal: Thanks to MAG’s aggressive growth profile, it is perfect for those seeking higher returns with a bit more risk.

Climate Commitment at Juanicipio Mine

MAG Silver is taking action to fight climate change and reduce its impact on the planet and local communities. The company follows a clear plan that supports its values, operations, and what its stakeholders expect.

It owns 44% of the Juanicipio Mine, while Fresnillo plc owns 56% and runs the site. Since this is MAG’s main asset, it includes 100% of the mine’s energy use and emissions in its own reports, even though Fresnillo reports them as the operator.

• In 2023, the mine produced 21,614 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Juanicipio was responsible for over 95% of this total.

Overall, experts predict silver prices to remain strong, making select silver stocks a good choice for long-term growth as clean energy demand increases. Factors like inflation, interest rates, and global clean energy policies can all influence silver prices, so staying informed on these trends can help with smarter investment decisions.

• ALSO READ: Silver Lining: Soaring Demand Outstrips Supply, Pushing Prices to The Roof

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