Ohio has enacted a new law that creates a legal framework for carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) projects in the state. The legislation addresses pore space ownership, liability, and permitting rules, which are key barriers for CCS deployment. This move positions Ohio to host projects that capture CO2 from industrial sources and store it underground, potentially tapping into federal 45Q tax credits. For farmers and landowners, the law clarifies who owns the underground pore space used for CO2 storage and how they can lease it. It also sets up a state permitting process through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Supporters say this could bring new revenue to rural areas and help heavy industries decarbonize. Critics raise concerns about long-term liability and monitoring requirements. The law takes effect immediately. Ohio joins several other states that have passed similar CCS legislation in recent years as the federal government ramps up incentives for carbon removal technologies.
