Cluster of Excellence Integrated Energy Systems
Cluster of Excellence Integrated Energy Systems

Planning of CO₂ infrastructure

© iStock/kodda SH

A systematic approach to carbon infrastructure

CO₂ networks form the backbone of future carbon management. Fraunhofer CINES provides gas network operators with the data and methods they need to develop a robust infrastructure for the energy and industrial systems of the future.

For carbon management to take off in industry and the energy sector, there is an urgent need for an infrastructure to transport captured CO₂. However, in order to develop the necessary CO₂ network, robust data and assumptions regarding the long-term development of transport demand, costs and many other factors are essential. Using the methods and databases developed by Fraunhofer CINES, gas network operators can now proceed with concrete planning – from route planning and flow dynamics right through to network tariffs.

  • Develop robust CO₂ networks that are consistent with the future development of the energy system and the industrial sector.
  • Model various scenarios and development stages, depending on the number of connections, CO₂ transport volumes and many other factors.
  • Optimise the infrastructure in terms of cost, fluid dynamics, route planning, etc.
© Fraunhofer ISI
Elemente einer CO2-Infrastruktur
© Fraunhofer CINES
Beispielhafte Topologie eines CO2-Netzes in Deutschland, modelliert mit der CINES-Methode
© Fraunhofer SCAI
Strömungsmechanische Simulation mit MYNTS

An overview of our services

Quantitative framework

  • Location-specific description of foreseeable CO₂ sources and sinks in industry and the energy sector.
  • Including CO₂ hubs, storage facilities and border crossing points
  • Roll-out consistent with energy transition scenarios

Network topology

  • GIS-based modelling of the route
  • Optimised for CO₂ emissions, terrain gradient, land use, existing gas pipelines, etc.
  • Alternative topologies depending on boundary conditions

Physical network design

  • Fluid dynamics simulation using the MYNTS tool for cost optimisation.
  • States of matter, pressure, temperature and flow velocities
  • Pipe diameters, pumps and compressors
  • Risk analysis

Cost-benefit analysis

  • Cost optimisation (CAPEX and OPEX) depending on network topology and pipe diameter
  • Charge calculation

Strategies

  • Phased roll-out modelling
  • No-regret network (initial network)
  • Risk assessment and alternative scenarios
  • Integrated analysis with the hydrogen network
  • Local, national and EU-wide networks

Downloads and further information

 

Download: Detailed description of the methodology

A detailed description of the CINES methodology for planning CO₂ networks can be found in the presentation from the CINES webinar held on 5 June 2025.

 

Energy system models at CINES

A unique combination of system models enables CINES to model future energy systems with high temporal and spatial resolution, from the local to the European level.

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© Fraunhofer SCAI

MYNTS Multiphysics Network Simulator

The Multiphysical Network Simulator (MYNTS) developed by Fraunhofer SCAI simulates networks for gas, electricity, district heating and water, as well as sector coupling.

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