NICE-Italy

The project NICE-Italy, coordinated by the OGS as the proposing party, together with the University of Bologna, the Politecnico di Milano, ENEA, CNR, INGV and the Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, aims at further raising the level of excellence achieved by Italian research infrastructures dedicated to CCUS (Capture, Utilisation, Transport and Storage of CO₂), in order to develop and consolidate over time a structured offer of services oriented towards technological advancement and stable paths of co-development of innovative solutions with companies. The aim is to promote the development and internationalisation of research in Italy in the entire CCUS sector and to introduce geothermal energy, which has recently been included in the ECCSEL ERIC strategy, as a new study topic. In this context, the initiative intends to promote national leadership along the entire CO2 capture, utilisation and storage chain, while fostering the adoption of sustainable energy practices. A central objective is the development of advanced technological solutions, easily transferable to the industrial fabric, to stimulate innovation and competitiveness of Italian companies. The project also aims to actively contribute to territorial development and social cohesion, with a special focus on the revitalisation of the South of Italy, through the strengthening of infrastructures and local skills. Finally, great importance is given to the introduction of new strategic axes, such as offshore geothermal energy and the hydrogen supply chain, which represent crucial areas for a safe, efficient and low environmental impact energy transition.