Wyoming Energy Authority works to identify, analyze and support the transition of innovative technologies and practices into the Wyoming energy sector.
CCUS refers to the process in which carbon is captured from industrial processes and either utilized by turning the carbon into a new product or stored by injecting the carbon into a storage site, usually underground in a geological formation. Researchers around the world have been able to demonstrate success with both methods.
Wyoming is committed to advancing the carbon economy. Wyoming Energy Authority actively works with researchers, public and private sector entities, stakeholders and the international community to help find solutions and move carbon capture technology forward.
Explore an interactive map that highlights CCUS opportunities in Wyoming.
Hydrogen has the potential to impact not only the energy generation sector, but also the transportation and building sectors. Hydrogen has the ability to store and deliver energy, but that energy must come from a generation source, which is why hydrogen can be classified by different colors based on the source. For example, “green hydrogen” is referred to as hydrogen from renewable sources whereas “blue hydrogen” is referred to as hydrogen from fossil fuel sources that utilize carbon capture technology.
Coal has the potential to serve as a feedstock resource of products that already have high carbon inputs. These products can include graphene, carbon fiber, and nanomaterials. Wyoming has multiple researchers, testing facilities and private companies researching the economic uses for coal products to ensure Wyoming coal can be fully utilized along the supply chain.
Energy storage refers to systems that are able to take energy when it is generated, store it, and then release it when demand for energy is higher than generation levels. Types of energy storage include pumped hydroelectric, thermal, batteries, compressed air, and flywheels. Increase in adaption and deployment of energy storage technologies will allow the United States’ electric grid to become more flexible.
Nuclear energy is a carbon-free source of energy that is derived from uranium. Power is generated by splitting atoms and using the heat released to create steam and spin a turbine. Wyoming is the largest domestic producer of uranium, and the United States just gave its first final safety evaluation report to a small modular nuclear reactor.
The WEA is working to develop its nuclear energy industry for economic diversification, enhance energy security, reduce emissions of its established industries, and potential export opportunities for uranium and nuclear technology.
Read the strategic roadmap below:
Geothermal energy is energy from the Earth’s core that can be used for electric generation, as well as for heating and cooling buildings and facilities. Wells are drilled deep into the Earth’s core and steam is brought to the surface and used. Wyoming has limited opportunities for commercial geothermal development but has prospects for small scale energy production and for heat pump implementation.
Learn more about next generation energy at these trusted sources.