Overview

Geologic carbon storage is the permanent storage of carbon dioxide in deep underground geologic formations.

Carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) involves many activities that capture, transport, use and store (sequester) carbon dioxide. Geologic carbon storage is one part of CCUS activities.

We plan to take a phased approach to create a framework to regulate geologic carbon storage in Ontario. This framework:

  • supports industry
  • encourages sector innovation
  • reduces emissions

Learn more about geologic carbon storage in this backgrounder.

Benefits of enabling geologic carbon storage

  • Supports emissions reduction and production of low-carbon hydrogen.
  • Supports the transition to a low-carbon economy.
  • Lets businesses take advantage of provincial and federal initiatives for carbon storage.
  • Attracts investment and encourages innovation.

Public consultation opportunities

Proposed Act

Enabling the Development of Commercial-Scale Geologic Carbon Storage in Ontario: The Geologic Carbon Storage Act. 

You can submit your comments on the Environmental Registry from November 25, 2024 to January 9, 2025.

Discussion paper

Regulating Commercial-scale Geologic Carbon Storage Projects in Ontario

The comment period is now closed.

Roadmap towards regulating geologic carbon storage

We plan to enable geologic carbon storage through a phased approach that would provide clarity for businesses to plan and invest in Ontario, while ensuring safe and responsible development.

To build a framework that works for Ontario, we plan to collaborate with stakeholders, Indigenous communities and the public.

We began by taking immediate action towards removing barriers to carbon storage in Ontario.

Next, we made legislative and regulatory changes to allow testing and demonstration projects. These changes enabled businesses to start exploring carbon storage on privately owned lands while we develop a proposal for a regulatory framework for commercial-scale projects.

Roadmap timeline

Discussion paper

January to March 2022

  • Received feedback through postings on the regulatory and environmental registries of Ontario.
 
Clarify intent

March 2023

 
Enable demonstration

January 2024

  • Framework established under the Oil, Gas and Salt Resources Act to enable proponents to seek approval for carbon storage testing and demonstration projects, initially only on private land, with new and enhanced tools to protect people and the environment.
 
Design framework
  • In progress: Design a framework to regulate commercial-scale geologic carbon storage projects on Crown and private land.
  • Opportunities for public consultation beginning in 2024.
  • Targeting implementation in summer 2025.
 
Refine and adapt

Beyond 2025

  • Refine and adapt the framework for new activities and emerging technologies.
 

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