The Directorate-General for Climate Action (DG CLIMA) – the European Commission department responsible for climate policy – has given a ‘positive Opinion’ after reviewing plans to store carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the Prinos reservoir, marking a major step forward for EnEarth’s project.

The European Commission’s Opinion confirms that the technical work submitted by EnEarth meets EU requirements and demonstrates that the Prinos site is suitable for the safe, long-term storage of CO₂. 

The assessment recognises the quality and strength of the geological and technical studies EnEarth has prepared. It also supports EnEarth’s understanding of the reservoir’s dynamic behaviour and the systematic monitoring procedures it will put in place.

Nikolas Rigas, managing director of EnEarth, said: 
“This positive Opinion from the European Commission is a strong vote of confidence in the Prinos carbon storage project, and in the quality of the work of the EnEarth team. It confirms what we already know – that Prinos is a vital player in decarbonising hard-to-abate industry in Europe and Greece,and helping our country meet its goal of reducing emissions by 80 per cent by 2040.”

While the Opinion is not legally binding, it represents an important milestone in the permitting process and supports the ongoing review by the Hellenic Hydrocarbon and Energy Resources Management Company (HEREMA), which will make the final decision on granting the storage permit.

EnEarth submitted its permit application to HEREMA in July 2024, supported by technical evidence, including dozens of studies assessing safety and suitability of the site, proof of Energean Group’s technical capability and competence, and detailed descriptions of construction activities.  

The first phase of the project is expected to store 1 million tonnes of CO₂ per year, increasing to 3 million tonnes of CO₂ annually at full capacity.

KeyFacts Energy news: Carbon Capture and Storage