ISO 27914:2026

Overview

ISO 27914:2026 specifies the requirements for the geological storage of carbon dioxide (CO₂), an essential step in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) initiatives. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this standard addresses both onshore and offshore geological storage sites, emphasizing practices that minimize the risk of CO₂ loss and ensure long-term containment. The document covers the full project lifecycle, from initial site screening and characterization through operation, monitoring, and preparation for project termination. It applies to permeable and porous geological strata, including hydrocarbon reservoirs where CO₂ injection is not intended to enhance hydrocarbon production.

Key Topics

• Project Management: ISO 27914:2026 introduces integrated project management tailored for geological CO₂ storage projects. It accounts for unique site-specific geological characteristics, technical risks, and boundaries.
• Site Selection and Characterization: The standard covers the systematic approach to site screening, feasibility assessment, and detailed site characterization to ensure suitability for safe and effective CO₂ storage.
• Risk Management: The document sets out requirements for risk identification, evaluation, management, and documentation specific to geological storage, aiming to limit environmental and operational risks.
• Well Infrastructure: Guidance is provided for the design, construction, operation, monitoring, maintenance, and abandonment of wells used in CO₂ injection, with an emphasis on integrity and long-term sealing.
• Operations: Requirements for CO₂ storage site operation, safety planning, maintenance, and data management are provided, ensuring ongoing performance and compliance.
• Monitoring and Verification: The standard defines monitoring and verification (M&V) processes to track CO₂ behavior, verify containment, and ensure regulatory and safety compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Quantification of CO₂: ISO 27914:2026 establishes methodologies for quantifying the net mass of CO₂ securely stored, including requirements for metering, loss quantification, and documentation.

Applications

The practical value of ISO 27914:2026 lies in its comprehensive framework, supporting organizations and regulators involved in carbon capture and geological storage projects. Key applications include:

• Development of Geological Storage Projects: Whether for power generation, industry, or dedicated carbon removal, the standard provides a structured approach to deploying safe CO₂ storage sites.
• Regulatory Compliance: By defining clear requirements for storage integrity, risk management, and quantification, the standard aids operators in meeting government regulations and aligning with international climate commitments.
• CCS Project Lifecycle Management: Organizations benefit from guidance on project management, operations, monitoring, and project closure, supporting efficient planning and execution.
• CO₂ Inventory and Carbon Accounting: The quantification methodology enables reliable tracking of CO₂ injected and safely stored, which is essential for emissions reporting, carbon credit schemes, and sustainability certifications.
• Safety and Environmental Stewardship: Through robust risk management and monitoring criteria, ISO 27914:2026 enhances protection for people, assets, and the environment in relation to underground CO₂ storage.

Related Standards

The following standards are closely related to the implementation and integration of ISO 27914:2026 in carbon capture and storage operations:

• ISO 27916 – CO₂ storage associated with enhanced oil recovery (CO₂-EOR).
• ISO 14064-2 – Greenhouse gases: project-level quantification, monitoring, and reporting.
• Recommended Oil and Gas Practices – Provide additional technical details and references for well design, monitoring, and risk assessments in oil and gas contexts.
• EU CCS Directive and US EPA Class VI Rule – Regional regulatory frameworks for geological CO₂ storage sites.

ISO 27914:2026 serves as a cornerstone standard, supporting robust, transparent, and internationally consistent practices in the geological storage of carbon dioxide for climate mitigation.