Google Invests in Illinois Natural Gas Plant with Carbon Capture Technology

Google Backs Low-Carbon Gas Power Initiative

Google has entered into a corporate agreement with project developer Low Carbon Infrastructure (LCI) to support a 400MW natural gas power plant integrated with carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology in Decatur, Illinois. According to reports, the Broadwing Energy Center is projected to capture and permanently store more than 90% of its carbon dioxide emissions, marking a significant step in scaling CCS for power generation.

Google Backs Low-Carbon Gas Power Initiative
Project Details and Carbon Sequestration
Strategic Goals and Regional Impact
Industry Context and CCS Challenges
Future Collaborations and Standards

Project Details and Carbon Sequestration

The facility will utilize CCS technology supplied by Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), which analysts suggest could sequester over two million tons of CO2 annually. Sources indicate that ADM will store the captured emissions at an adjacent underground facility located more than a mile beneath the surface. The project is scheduled to begin construction in 2026, with the power plant operational by late 2029 and CCS units by early 2030.

Strategic Goals and Regional Impact

Google’s commitment to purchase most of the power generated aims to help mature CCS technology and enhance its global accessibility and affordability. Michael Terrell, Google’s head of advanced energy, stated that the agreement supports the development of baseload power for data center operations connected to the regional grid. The report notes that the project is expected to create approximately 750 full-time jobs during construction and dozens of permanent positions thereafter.

Industry Context and CCS Challenges

This initiative aligns with a broader trend among tech companies investing in carbon capture to address emissions and acquire carbon credits. For instance, Microsoft recently partnered with Equinor on CO2 transport and storage projects. However, critics point to concerns about CCS efficacy, citing projects like Chevron’s Gorgon venture, which reportedly captured only 43% of its target in 2022–23. Analysts suggest that while CCS holds promise, its track record underscores the need for rigorous oversight and transparency.

Future Collaborations and Standards

The Broadwing project represents the first phase of a longer-term collaboration between Google and LCI to develop additional CCS facilities in the U.S. and test commercial-scale applications. The project will also incorporate a newly released standard for CCS-specific Energy Attribute Certificates, which sources indicate could set a precedent for future low-carbon energy initiatives., according to related coverage