Equinor and Captura validate Direct Ocean Capture for commercial deployment
PASADENA, Calif., November 12, 2025 – In a major step toward the commercialization of Direct Ocean Capture (DOC) technology, Equinor and Captura have successfully completed a joint technology qualification program, validating Captura’s DOC system for commercial deployment.
DOC is an engineered carbon removal solution that extracts carbon dioxide (CO₂) from seawater for permanent CO₂ storage or re-use. Captura’s DOC technology combines high-performing electrodialysis with the ocean’s natural ability to absorb atmospheric CO₂, providing a scalable and complementary approach to existing carbon management solutions.
Over the past two years, Equinor and Captura have collaborated closely to advance this promising solution. Together, Equinor’s technical experts and Captura’s engineering and operations teams focused on evaluating the system’s design, operational stability, and performance during sustained operations.
This effort culminated in a rigorous, year-long qualification program at a joint 1,000-ton-per-year pilot facility in Kona, Hawaii. The program tested the system against 20 critical performance metrics, including safety, operational reliability, CO₂ removal efficiency, and monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) to ensure the technology meets the highest standards for commercial deployment.
“This collaborative effort has not only de-risked the technology but also demonstrated its scalability through established test plans and milestones” said Lionel Ribeiro, Carbon Removal Manager at Equinor. “Captura’s ability to attract a diverse coalition of strategic partners further underscores the scaling potential.”
Captura is now assessing potential sites for its first commercial-scale DOC project. Design is already underway for a facility that captures between 30,000 and 50,000 tons of CO₂ annually, with multiple high-graded locations under consideration in Europe, the UK, and Asia-Pacific.
“This milestone with Equinor is a critical step in bringing direct ocean capture to market,” said Steve Oldham, CEO of Captura. “Equinor’s deep expertise as a global energy leader brought the rigor and critical perspective needed to validate our technology against the demanding standards required for large-scale deployment. We greatly value their partnership throughout this process and as we continue to prepare for commercial roll-out.”
###
