Germany Enacts Carbon Dioxide Storage and Transport Act to Regulate CCS and CCU
On 28 November 2025, Germany's Carbon Dioxide Storage Act was amended and renamed the Carbon Dioxide Storage and Transport Act (KSpTG). The KSpTG permits carbon capture and storage (CCS) and utilization (CCU) for various purposes, establishing a framework for CO₂ pipeline infrastructure.
Commercial offshore CO₂ storage is allowed in the German exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, while onshore storage requires Federal States' opt-in. Operators of decommissioned oil and gas sites must provide geological data for CO₂ storage potential.
Transport and storage of CO₂ from natural gas plants is permitted; however, coal-based CO₂ is excluded. New CO₂ pipelines are designated as infrastructure of public interest. Exporting CO₂ by sea requires ratification under the London Protocol and bilateral agreements. This legislation provides options for CO₂ emitters under the EU ETS to decarbonize and may involve national funding schemes for CCS projects.
