Unit FLUID STORAGE FOR ENERGY TRANSITION

Course
Geology for energy resources
Study-unit Code
A004750
Curriculum
In all curricula
Teacher
Alessandro Decarlis
Teachers
  • Alessandro Decarlis
Hours
  • 66 ore - Alessandro Decarlis
CFU
6
Course Regulation
Coorte 2025
Offered
2026/27
Learning activities
Affine/integrativa
Area
Attività formative affini o integrative
Sector
GEO/02
Type of study-unit
Opzionale (Optional)
Type of learning activities
Attività formativa monodisciplinare
Language of instruction
English
Contents
This course introduces the geological principles of subsurface fluid storage for the energy transition. It covers reservoir fundamentals, key rock types, geomechanics, and well logging essentials, and provides an overview of Geological CCS and UHS technologies, major projects, and monitoring approaches.
Reference texts
Material provided by the instructor
Educational objectives
- Explain the geological principles related to subsurface fluid storage for CCS and UHS.
- Assess the suitability of a given reservoir for energy transition-related fluid storage
- Compare the main technological approaches used in geological CCS and UHS
- Recognize the purpose and limitations of monitoring techniques used to ensure long-term safety storage
Prerequisites
The student must have a basic knowledge of sedimentology and structural geology.
Teaching methods
Lectures and practical sessions
Other information
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Learning verification modality
Intermediate written assessments and a final written examination
Extended program
Students are introduced to the historical evolution of global energy systems and the emerging low carbon scenarios that require large scale storage solutions. The course explores how geoscience underpins these technologies, covering the fundamentals of reservoir geology, including the properties of siliciclastic and carbonate systems, and the role of evaporites. Core concepts in geomechanics and well logging are presented to build an understanding of how subsurface formations respond to fluid injection and withdrawal. The course examines the principles of geological CCS and UHS, supported by a review of major international projects and operational case studies. Finally, students are introduced to monitoring techniques used to ensure the safety, integrity, and long term performance of subsurface storage sites. Together, these components provide a solid scientific and technical foundation for evaluating geological storage solutions in support of a sustainable energy future.