International cooperation

Extensive research work is currently being carried out worldwide that will make it possible to implement technologies for the capture and storage of CO₂ (CCS technologies) in the near future. Very prominent networks for the process of scientific dialogue have been put in place alongside national and international research programmes. Examples of international networks include the activities of the International Energy Agency (IEA) in the context of its Implementing Agreements, the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum (CSLF). These are international platforms that are helping to consolidate and provide direction to research activities and to ensure that exchange of scientific information takes place. Acting upon the initiative of the European Commission, industrial, scientific and non-governmental organisations have also established the European Technology Platform for Zero Emission Fossil Fuel Power Plants (ZEP), which has developed an EU programme for CCS demonstration projects.

COORETEC, an initiative of the German Federal Government, complements the initiatives that have been established at European and international levels. The activities carried out under this funding initiative are coordinated with the implementation of the Strategic Research Agenda of the "Zero Emission Technology Platform" (ETP-ZEP) and the work of the "Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum" (CSLF). This ensures that use is made of synergy effects. Another cooperation link between various European countries with national research programmes on CCS technology is provided by the ERA-NET "Fossil Energy Coalition" (FENCO).

One specific task here is to represent German interests in the Implementing Agreements (IA) of the "Greenhouse Gas R&D Programme" (GHG) and of the "Clean Coal Centre" (CCC) within the International Energy Agency (IEA). In addition, findings from the Implementing Agreements (IA) are to be communicated to the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology and to specialised bodies responsible for industry and science.