The Pros and Cons of Carbon Capture and Storage

Relying on carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology to tackle climate change by keeping coal and gas power plants alive is a risky venture that will likely make electricity more expensive for consumers. The cost of electricity from power plants outfitted with CCS is at least 1.5 to 2 times more expensive than other alternatives, according to a new report. Cost estimates for CCS projects often omit expenses related to transporting and storing CO2, which are significant. If developers pass those costs on to consumers, it could raise wholesale electricity prices by 95 to 175 percent.