The IEA Greenhouse Gas R&D Programme (IEAGHG) is an international, science-driven research network that has been advancing the development, assessment, and dissemination of technologies for carbon dioxide capture, utilization, and geological storage (CCS/CCUS) since 1991. The IEAGHG network brings together government bodies, industry, and leading research partners in a legally autonomous, technically independent structure to provide evidence-based analyses and practical recommendations.

In terms of scope, IEAGHG covers the entire CCUS value chain: from CO₂ capture in industry and the energy sector to transport (primarily pipelines) and secure, permanent storage in saline aquifers and depleted reservoirs, as well as cross-cutting topics such as monitoring, risk and cost management, regulation, and societal acceptance. CO₂ utilization is also addressed, including the evaluation of technologies for material or energy conversion, such as chemical transformation into fuels, mineralization, or use in industrial processes. This breadth is reflected in peer-reviewed technical reports and reviews that are published regularly and serve as international reference points. Recent examples range from analyses of operational reliability for transport and storage operations to economic assessments and workshop outcomes on AI in CCUS.

Beyond publications, IEAGHG coordinates international expert networks (e.g., Monitoring, Risk Management, Costs) that synthesize and advance best practices from project experience. Combined network meetings address current challenges such as leakage detection at legacy wells, pressure management, fault structures, and novel monitoring solutions—including interfaces with the insurability of CO₂ storage projects.

As a knowledge-sharing platform, IEAGHG also organizes conferences and workshops, such as the Post-Combustion Capture Conference (PCCC) series, which consolidates technological progress in post-combustion capture and brings together stakeholders from industry, research, and regulatory bodies. The program spans a wide range—from absorbents and adsorbents as well as membranes to large-scale demonstrations and techno-economic assessments.

IEAGHG achieves particular visibility through the International CCS Summer School, a one-week intensive training program for Master's/PhD students and early-career professionals. In 2026, it will take place in Copenhagen (hosted by INNO-CCUS) and will offer lectures, panels, group work, site visits, and career sessions covering all aspects of the CCUS chain—with accommodation and meals provided by hosts and sponsors. Participation strengthens the next generation of professionals and builds a global alumni network.

Methodologically, IEAGHG is characterized by objective, externally reviewed studies that are "policy-relevant but not policy-prescriptive," maintaining a clear separation between research findings and political positions. This approach provides robust decision-making foundations for projects, regulators, and investors—from data for cost models to permitting issues in offshore contexts (with reference to the London Convention and London Protocol).

In sum, IEAGHG combines scientific depth with industrial relevance and international connectivity. Through its publications, networks, events, and training programs, it accelerates the deployment of CCUS—with the goal of measurably reducing emissions, overcoming scaling barriers, and establishing robust, socially accepted pathways to decarbonization.

The current phase of the IEA GHG runs from December 2021 to November 2026 (Phase 8). Preparations are underway for Phase 9 (December 2026 to November 2031).

Publications are available on the IEA GHG Website.

Australia, European Commission, Austria, Canada, Finland, France, India, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Norway, OPEC (till 2024), South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States

In addition to the countries listed, a number of contractors on an institutional basis and international sponsors also participate in this TCP.

Austrian ExCo representative

DI Arno Gattinger
Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation, and Technology (BMIMI)
Energy and Environment Technologies
Radetzkystraße 2
A-1030 Wien
E-Mail: Arno.Gattinger@bmimi.gv.at

Alternate

DI Dr. Günter Simader
Austrian Energy Agency (AEA)
Mariahilfer Straße 136
A-1150 Wien
E-Mail: guenter.simader@energyagency.at