Summary: Surface and subsurface workflows are often conducted in silos. This fragmented approach fails to account for the complex interactions between subsurface conditions, well performance, and transport networks. An integrated surface-subsurface approach enables a holistic understanding of CO₂ flow dynamics, pressure, temperature and phase behavior across the entire injection and storage system. Bridging the gap between subsurface and surface domains enhances operational reliability, improves risk assessment, and supports more effective decision-making for long-term storage integrity and performance.

This presentation will share key examples of design gaps and operational risks that have resulted in under- or over-designed projects and missed opportunities. The presentation will then focus on a novel application of an integrated surface-subsurface model to analyze the full-system impacts of CO2 injection well transients on a CCS operation.

Bio: Stephen works across Wood as a CCS technical advisor on design, processes, and engineering methods. He brings a comprehensive understanding of CO2 transport and storage challenges, from the supply to the on/offshore injection point. He has recently delivered projects including industrial CO2 hub network developments and multi-discipline assessments of gaseous and dense phase CO2 pipelines. He has also recently managed projects for liquid CO2 value-chain developments, including export / import-by-ship opportunities, looking at logistics, fluid specification and both onshore (terminal) and offshore (direct injection) options. He drives excellence in the execution and delivery of CCS projects worldwide. He brings 24 years of experience and is a recognised global expert representing Standards Australia EE-002 (WG2) committee, tasked with developing CO2 standards including ISO/DIS 27913 (2024).