Wyoming CarbonSAFE Project: Class VI Well Permitting
Trihydro is collaborating with the University of Wyoming (UW) and the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality on a large-scale carbon capture and sequestration project in Wyoming. The project involves developing Class VI permit applications and designing a baseline monitoring program.
Wyoming’s CarbonSAFE Project
The Carbon Storage Assurance Facility Enterprise (CarbonSAFE), a US Department of Energy (DOE) initiative launched in 2016, aims to accelerate carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS) deployment by identifying and characterizing suitable geologic storage sites.
CarbonSAFE supports the development of CCUS storage complexes through several project phases: (1) integrated carbon capture and storage pre-feasibility assessment, (2) storage complex feasibility assessment, (3) site characterization and permitting, and (4) construction.
Wyoming’s CarbonSAFE project, located near the Dry Fork Station north of Gillette, Wyoming, is one of 13 initial CCUS project sites in the US. The project is currently in phase III, which focuses on completing site characterization, acquiring Class VI permits for construction, integrating Membrane Technology and Research, Inc.’s carbon capture assessment, and conducting National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) analyses to progress towards commercial-scale CCUS projects.
Developing Class VI Permit Applications
To support this phase, UW engaged Trihydro to provide technical assistance for ten Class VI well permit applications.
Trihydro’s contributions included drafting comprehensive testing and monitoring plans, post-injection site care protocols, corrective action strategies, quality assurance, and surveillance procedures. Additionally, Trihydro assisted in formatting and organizing the permit applications, streamlining the overall application process for UW.
Designing a Baseline Monitoring Program
Trihydro is also leading the design of the shallow subsurface baseline monitoring program, which includes atmospheric, soil gas, seismic, and groundwater monitoring. The monitoring program was incorporated into the testing and monitoring plans and, when implemented, will contribute to a robust baseline monitoring program by providing a reference point for the shallow subsurface should any future complaints arise.
After completing Phase III and upon DOE approval, the project will proceed to Phase IV—constructing the commercial-scale secure geologic storage facility and preparing it for carbon dioxide injection.
