In a significant move towards sustainable energy practices, Italian energy giant Eni and infrastructure operator Snam have officially initiated Italy's inaugural carbon capture and storage (CCS) project. The collaboration represents a milestone in the country's commitment to reducing emissions and fostering a more environmentally friendly industrial landscape.

Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi and Snam CEO Stefano Venier solidified their partnership on December 19, 2022, establishing an equal joint venture to oversee the development and management of Phase 1 of the Ravenna CCS Project. The recent presentation of the project in Ravenna on October 25, along with the launch of its dedicated website, underscores the project's strategic importance and highlights the commitment of both companies to sustainable energy solutions.

The primary goal of the Ravenna CCS Hub project is to significantly reduce emissions from challenging-to-address industrial sectors, promoting sustainability and enhancing their competitive edge in the market. By prioritizing decarbonization, the initiative aims to create an environment conducive to new opportunities for economic growth.

The first phase of the project targets the capture of approximately 25,000 tons of CO2 emitted from Eni's natural gas treatment facility in Casalborsetti. Once the carbon dioxide is captured, it will be transported via pipelines to the Porto Corsini Mare Ovest platform, where it will be injected into the depleted gas field offshore Ravenna. This innovative approach not only mitigates the harmful effects of CO2 emissions but also utilizes depleted natural resources to further promote environmental sustainability.

Anticipating a substantial economic impact, the project is projected to generate over 500 new jobs during its initial phase. With the expected commencement of operations scheduled for 2026, the Ravenna CCS Project is poised to make a substantial contribution to Italy's ongoing efforts to create a greener, more sustainable energy landscape.