Coordination of the ZEP and IWG9 Networks for the execution of CCUS Under the SET Plan

CO2NEXUS aims to accelerate the large-scale deployment of carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) in Europe by fostering structured collaboration between the European Technology Innovation Platform for CCUS (ETIP-ZEP) and the SET Plan Implementation Working Group 9 (IWG9). Anchored in the objectives of the European Climate Law, the Net Zero Industry Act, and the Industrial Carbon Management Strategy, the project will consolidate Europe’s fragmented CCUS community into a cohesive, science-based network that supports climate neutrality by 2050. CO2NEXUS will deliver a Thematic Vision for CCUS R&I priorities and a Strategic Research & Innovation Agenda (SRIA), ensuring that policy, industry, and research activities are aligned to overcome barriers such as infrastructure development, permitting delays, risk allocation, and financing challenges. Through inclusive stakeholder fora, targeted outreach, and integration of expertise across the capture, transport, storage, and utilisation value chain, the project will create lasting cooperation among governments, industry, researchers, civil society, and financial actors. By enhancing knowledge sharing, building consensus, and strengthening sustainability plans for ETIP-ZEP and IWG9, CO2NEXUS will generate robust evidence to inform EU and national policymakers, de-risk investments, and enable competitive low-carbon industries. The project’s outcomes will accelerate CCUS deployment, support Europe’s industrial transition, and position the EU as a global leader in industrial carbon management.