The goal of the AURORA project: to demonstrate that this non-proprietary solvent technology is ready for commercial use in industry—and early results are promising.

As the world’s largest and most advanced CO₂ capture test facility, TCM is a key hub for developing and qualifying carbon capture technologies essential to decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors such as waste-to-energy, natural gas-fired power plants, refineries, and coal-fired power plants. At the heart of this effort is the non-proprietary solvent CESAR1, now undergoing testing at Mongstad in collaboration with the AURORA project – led by SINTEF—which aims to revolutionize carbon capture across multiple industrial sectors.

From Pilot to Industrial Reality

“Our main task in this campaign is to fill knowledge gaps and qualify CESAR1 for full-scale industrial use,” says Koteswara Rao Putta, Technical Services Lead and Projects Coordinator at TCM. “This means documenting performance, stability, and environmental impact under realistic conditions—not just in the lab, but in operational environments that reflect what industry actually faces.”

Over the four-month campaign, the team at TCM is evaluating both the performance and environmental impact of CESAR1 under various operating conditions, including variable loads, different flue gas compositions, and challenges such as NO₂ contamination.

Positive Results—and Major Improvements

TCM first tested CESAR1 in 2019, but that campaign revealed several operational challenges. “We learned a lot at that time and used those insights to improve both the processes and instrumentation,” says Putta. “Now we’re seeing that CESAR1 delivers higher capture efficiency while keeping environmental emissions very low. That’s a crucial step toward commercial deployment.”

The current campaign includes testing with flue gases from a wide range of industrial sources—such as RFCC (refinery gas), waste-to-energy plants, and the metals processing, recycling, cement, steel, and iron industries—and will later include smelters, hydrogen production, and gas-fired power plants.

“One of the most valuable experiences so far has been seeing how CESAR1 handles different types of flue gas impurities,” he explains. “For example, we recently conducted a long-duration test under high NO₂ conditions, which is particularly relevant for the cement sector. This gives us important insights into solvent degradation and process optimization.”

Facts about the AURORA Project

Based on open technology, available for global development and use

Led by SINTEF, one of Europe’s largest independent research institutes

Funded by the EU Horizon Europe program

Goal: Qualify CESAR1 for commercial use

Target industries: Cement, refineries, materials recycling

CESAR1: A Non-Proprietary Solvent Technology with Strong Potential

Solvent-based CO₂ capture is a flexible and well-established method that can be adapted to many different emission sources. CESAR1—developed as an open and non-proprietary solution—stands out for its high efficiency, low emissions, and significantly reduced energy demand compared to conventional solutions like MEA (monoethanolamine).

“Having CESAR1 as an open technology means the results can be shared and further developed,” says Putta. “That enables more players, including academia and start-ups, to contribute to improvements and adaptations. This is how we build the future of carbon capture—together.”

Key demonstration highlights for CESAR1 include:

• 98% CO₂ capture rate
• Minimal environmental emissions, including solvent losses and waste generation

Broad Testing—High Relevance

A central ambition of the campaign is to generate results directly applicable to industrial use. TCM has therefore tested CESAR1 under real-world conditions, including load variations, contaminants, and both high- and low-concentration CO₂ streams.

“We designed the tests to cover many possible operational scenarios—from full load to partial operation, and with large variations in flue gas composition,” says Putta. “This mirrors the real world, where conditions are rarely perfect.”

In the coming weeks, TCM will test flue gases simulating smelters and natural gas power plant CO₂ concentrations—including scenarios resembling those in UK and US industrial clusters—as well as flue gas with very low CO₂ concentrations, typical of the aluminum industry.

Next Stepfor the AURORA project: Advanced Control Systems

Midway through the campaign, in July, TCM will also test advanced control strategies developed by Cybernetica, a partner in the AURORA project. The goal is to demonstrate how automated systems can help industry bring CO₂ capture plants to stable operation faster, adapt to changing conditions, and reduce operational costs.

“These control systems will make the process more robust and adaptable, even under unpredictable conditions,” says Putta. “It’s about building confidence for investment and lowering operational risks.”

A Key Contribution to a Carbon-Neutral Industry

The campaign will conclude toward the end of August, and the results will serve as a foundation for broader deployment of CESAR1 in industry—supporting start-ups, research institutions, and other developers aiming to advance the technology.

“We’re very pleased so far. The results are strong, the collaboration is close, and we see this becoming an important piece in the puzzle to make carbon capture more accessible and reliable—with reduced risks for many more industries,” Putta concludes. “This isn’t just research—it’s laying the groundwork for real change.”

Kick-start your professional development in 2025 by joining our comprehensive CCS training course, jointly delivered by Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM) and DNV, two global leaders in the field.

🗓 Date: September 11–12, 2025
📍 Location: Mongstad, Norway (transport from Bergen provided)
🎓 Format: 2-day in-person training, including guided site and lab tours

Why attend?

🚀 Build expertise across the full CCS value chain
From capture to storage, learn from two institutions at the forefront of global CCS deployment.

🔬 Gain in-depth technical insights
Explore cutting-edge technologies and real-world learnings from recent flagship projects.

🏭 Experience TCM’s world-class facilities
Tour the world’s largest open-access CO₂ capture test centre, including our amine plant and the Site for Emerging Technologies.

👨‍🏫 Learn from top industry experts
Our instructors bring decades of practical and strategic CCS experience.

🤝 Expand your network
Connect with peers from industry, government, and academia driving the decarbonization transition.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for professionals from:

• Emitter industries planning or developing CCS projects
• Transport and storage operators
• Technology and equipment suppliers
• Regulators, policy makers, and trade bodies
• Energy researchers and academics

Registration & Pricing for the TCM–DNV CCS Training

💼 General registration: GBP 2,000 (excl. VAT)

➡️ Enrol now or register your interest to receive more details

This is a one-off opportunity to gain practical CCS knowledge at the world’s premier CO₂ capture site. We hope to see you in Mongstad this June

The highlights: a powerful new modelling tool for safeguarding water, refined methods for solvent analysis, and the discovery of previously unknown degradation products. Together, these efforts strengthen the foundations for safer, smarter carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

A New Tool to Protect Drinking Water

One of the most impactful contributions was a dynamic modelling tool designed to protect drinking water sources near CO₂ capture plants. While amine-based capture is a proven and widely adopted method, small amounts of amines can still be released into the atmosphere—where they may form nitrosamines (NSAs) and nitramines (NAs), some of which are known or suspected carcinogens.

Because these compounds are highly water-soluble, they can be carried by rainfall into lakes, rivers, and aquifers. Norway has responded by setting strict limits on NSA and NA concentrations in drinking water. The new model helps capture operators and regulators forecast the movement of these compounds from emission sources to water bodies—and design measures to stay within safe thresholds.

The tool integrates real-world stack emissions with atmospheric dispersion modelling and catchment hydrology. Validation is underway using field plume data and lab studies of atmospheric reactions and biodegradability.

A key innovation is the planned launch of a user-friendly web application, enabling users to simulate various mitigation strategies—such as enhanced water wash systems—and immediately assess their effectiveness on nearby water quality. The aim: to enable safe, sustainable, and transparent deployment of CCS solutions.

👉 Read the paper

Advancing Analytical Tools for CESAR1

The second study presented a new LC-MS/MS method for analyzing degradation products in CESAR1, a leading solvent blend of AMP and PZ. The technique accurately detected and separated several non-volatile degradation compounds from the parent amines—demonstrating high precision, selectivity, and reliability.

This method significantly enhances the ability to monitor solvent health during operations and supports ongoing efforts to optimize process stability and efficiency.

👉 Read the paper

Uncovering Unknown Degradation Compounds

In the third study, researchers analysed CESAR1 samples from pilot operations using industrial flue gases. A total of 35 degradation compounds were identified—12 of them never previously observed in CESAR1, AMP, or PZ.

By combining pilot-scale sampling with laboratory degradation stress tests, the researchers were able to map all major nitrogen-containing compounds in the solvent, helping close one of the most significant knowledge gaps in CO₂ capture chemistry.

The study contributes to the Horizon Europe AURORA project, which aims to improve the environmental performance of advanced capture solvents.

👉 Read the paper

Want to learn more?

Explore how TCM is working to improve solvent degradation and reclaiming: tcmda.com/studies-with-focus-on-amine-components

Today, Alexander is responsible for ensuring that all health-related aspects are addressed in the operation of the facility. He approaches his work with curiosity, creativity, and strong professional integrity – and thrives most when he can work independently on complex issues.

“How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“I joined the team in 2013 as a consultant from Proactima. At the time, I had been working on a project at Equinor Mongstad’s chemical center and found the new operations on the other side of the fence very exciting. I became a permanent employee at TCM at the beginning of 2024.”

“What was your knowledge of carbon capture before you started?”

“I actually knew quite a bit about CO₂ capture using amines from my chemical engineering studies, so the theoretical foundation was solid. But I had no idea back then that a few years later I would be spending my days working with carbon capture technologies and HSE-related challenges connected to it.”

“What’s the most exciting part of your job at TCM?”

“Definitely the variety of tasks. As an occupational hygienist, I constantly have to familiarize myself with new issues and stay professionally updated. Each test campaign raises new questions about operations and chemical handling, requiring both insight and precision. I also enjoy working on approvals and certifications, even though it sometimes involves a lot of paperwork. In addition, I often represent the company in professional forums and during visits from guests focused on risk assessments related to carbon capture.”

“What does a typical workday look like for you?”

“There’s really no such thing as a typical day. With many ongoing projects and “balls in the air,” every day looks different. I mainly work from the office at Mongstad but also have the flexibility to work from home when that’s more practical. TCM gives us a lot of freedom under responsibility – and I really appreciate that.”

“Who do you collaborate with the most, and how does that cooperation work?”

“My job involves contact with many different internal disciplines – from technical experts and the lab to the operators who run the plant. I’m part of the HSE department, led by Pål Venås, and we’re in daily contact. Collaboration at TCM works very well – the expertise I need is always close at hand.”

“What gives you energy and joy at work?”

“The multicultural environment at TCM gives me a lot of energy. I work with people from virtually every corner of the world, and that’s both inspiring and educational. I also get energy from working independently on demanding tasks. Diving into a complex topic is challenging, but all the more rewarding when you find solutions and understand the bigger picture.”

“How do you use your education in your job?”

“The combination of a degree in chemical engineering and a master’s in occupational health and industrial hygiene has proven to be absolutely perfect. It’s actually quite incredible to have a local job here on the west coast of Norway where both of my degrees are so directly relevant.”

“What do your family and friends say about your job?”

“Haha, neither my mother, my siblings, nor my kids fully understand what I do at TCM. You probably have to be “in the loop” to get it. But they know that I enjoy my work and have an exciting job – and that’s the most important thing.”

“What do you see as the biggest challenge in your job?”

“Finding enough time. It’s often difficult to prioritize between tasks that must be done and those I would also really like to take on.”

“If you were to give a colleague a flower, who would it be – and why?”

“There are many at TCM who make an outstanding effort to develop safe and efficient CO₂ capture technologies. But if I had to choose one, it would be our boss, Ismail. He has the most demanding job of all of us and handles it with calm and genuine good humor – even when things get tough.”

“How do you recharge after a long day?

– I often take a 15–20-minute power nap – that gives me enough energy to tackle household chores and follow up with my kids. I also have a leadership role at a boxing club in Knarvik and try to stay in shape through running, cycling, or boxing. And I really value the time I spend with my partner – we have a great relationship.”

“Do you have any specific plans for the future?”

“I hope the transition at TCM moves in the right direction so we can continue developing the company and the important work we do. Personally, I’m also looking forward to more time for my hobbies – and more trips to Tenerife, where my father’s side of the family lives.”

These contributions emphasise TCM’s strategic role in improving the performance and economic viability of post-combustion CO₂ capture technologies.

Through digital modeling, data analysis, and large-scale validation, TCM helps bridge the gap between lab-scale innovations and industrial-scale applications. Process modeling plays a critical role in this work—providing insight into complex system behavior, identifying operational limits, and revealing opportunities for reducing both energy consumption and costs.

Optimizing Plant Operations for Maximum CO₂ Capture

TCM contributed to a scientific article developed by the University of South-Eastern Norway (USN), titled “Optimum Conditions and Maximum Capacity of Amine-Based CO₂ Capture Plant at TCM.” The study explores how the amine-based plant at Mongstad can be optimized for both efficiency and capacity.

Using Aspen Plus to simulate real-world operational scenarios, the research team developed a robust, rate-based model calibrated with data from TCM’s test campaigns.

Key findings include:

• An optimal configuration that uses maximum gas flow, both CHP and RFCC strippers, and a 15% rich-solvent bypass.
• This setup achieved a CO₂ removal efficiency of 90% with a specific reboiler duty of just 3.0 MJ/kg CO₂.
• For maximum throughput, the plant can operate with an amine flow of 230 tons per hour, capturing up to 98% of CO₂.

“These results are vital for the global CCS community,” says Koteswara Rao Putta, Technical Services Lead and Project Coordinator at TCM, and one of the paper’s three authors. “They show how full-scale facilities like TCM not only validate capture technologies but also help identify ways to reduce energy use and improve scalability.”

He also highlights the value of TCM’s collaboration with academic institutions, which plays a key role in transferring industrial process knowledge to students and strengthening CCS expertise at the university level.

👉 Read the article

Modeling CESAR1: Understanding and Managing Uncertainty

The second study, “Modeling and Uncertainty Quantification of CESAR1 Solvent System,” focuses on simulating the performance of the CESAR1 solvent—a blend of AMP and piperazine, known for its high efficiency and low energy requirements.

This research combines process modeling with uncertainty quantification (UQ) to assess how variations in key input parameters—such as flue gas composition or solvent flow rate—impact overall performance. UQ techniques, including sensitivity analysis, help identify the most influential variables, enabling more robust and cost-effective plant design.

Such insights are essential for reliably scaling up capture processes and making informed decisions in the design of next generation capture facilities. The study offers valuable tools for engineering optimization and risk reduction.

Together, these studies demonstrate the power of advanced modeling and validation in de-risking CO₂ capture technologies. By integrating full-scale operational experience with detailed simulation, TCM continues to provide critical knowledge that supports global efforts to accelerate decarbonization.

👉 Read the article

These two studies demonstrate how advanced modelling and full-scale validation can reduce the risk associated with carbon capture technologies. By combining operational experience with rigorous simulations, TCM continues to provide valuable insights that accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

“Operational testing at TCM plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between laboratory research and commercial implementation. By thoroughly evaluating new capture technologies under real industrial conditions, we generate reliable data that the global CCS community can trust,” says Matthew Campbell, Technical Manager at TCM. He emphasizes that TCM only shares data from the open test campaigns at the facility.

The following three studies presented at GHGT-17 highlight TCM’s efforts to accelerate CO₂ capture innovation through large-scale testing, industry collaboration, and open knowledge sharing:

Pilot-Scale Testing of Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Post-Combustion CO₂ Capture at TCM

This study examined the use of large-scale synthesized aluminum-based MOFs for CO₂ capture from TCM’s flue gases. Integrated into a 3-column Vacuum Pressure Swing Adsorption (VPSA) pilot plant, the MOFs demonstrated promising CO₂ recovery and purity levels. The results highlight the potential of MOFs to enhance capture efficiency.
👉 Read the article

Demonstration of Latest CANSOLV CO₂ Capture Technology Advancements at TCM

This paper described Shell’s customized post-combustion CO₂ solvent formulations and amine regeneration processes tested at TCM.
👉 Read the article

Demonstration of ION’s Novel CO₂ Capture Solvent (ICE-31) at TCM’s Amine Plant with Transformational Deep Decarbonization and CO₂ Capture Co-Benefit Results

Over 4,000 operational hours, ION’s ICE-31 solvent was tested on multiple flue gas sources, achieving up to 98% CO₂ capture efficiency. The article summarizes experiences from the company’s second test campaign at TCM in 2024.
👉 Read the article

These studies underscore TCM’s commitment to accelerating CO₂ capture solutions through full-scale testing, industry collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
👉 Read more at TCM’s collection overview

In 2008, Ali joined TotalEnergies and 4 years later he was assigned to the company’s headquarters in Paris. Since then, his career has taken him to various countries around the world, and he now works at Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM) in Norway.

“I’m grateful for the chance to work on so many different projects and to experience so many cultures. Just nine more years like this, and the sweet retirement awaits,” he says with a smile.

Ali Milani at his office, leading TCM’s CO₂ Liquefaction, Transport, and Storage project.

“How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“I’m employed by TotalEnergies, one of the owners of TCM, and joined the center on a secondment.”

“How was your move to Norway?”

“The move itself was straightforward, but establishing residency came with quite a bit of bureaucracy. It took more than six months to get my social security number and open a bank account.”

“What surprised you most about Norwegian culture?”

“I’d been to Norway before and knew people speak excellent English. Work culture is very straightforward, and everyone is polite and helpful. But socially, life can feel a bit isolating — it’s not easy to make friends.”

“What inspired you to work in carbon capture?”

“My background is in petrochemicals and oil and gas, so this was a great opportunity to pivot into something new and good for the planet.”

“How has your education prepared you for your role at TCM?”

“I studied chemical engineering at one of Iran’s top universities. The fundamentals are directly applicable to carbon capture and storage.”

“What’s the most exciting aspect of your job at TCM?”

“Getting things done. There’s always a lot going on, and it’s satisfying to see real progress every day.”

“Can you tell us about the project you’re working on?”

“I’m leading the CO₂ Liquefaction, Transport, and Storage project. We’ve just completed the initial phase and are preparing to enter Front-End Engineering Design (FEED). In under three months, we built the team, issued the tender, and signed the contract — a major achievement. We’re on schedule.”

“What do your family and friends think about your job?”

“Life is good for my family. My work supports us, and they’re happy.”

“What gives you energy at work?”

“Knowing that we’re making progress and that the project is under control.”

“What’s the biggest challenge in your work?”

“We don’t yet have a fully experienced execution team. But there’s a lot of talent here, and we’re learning together. Another challenge is that many team members are part-time due to other priorities. Going forward, we’ll need a fully dedicated project team.”

“If you were to give a flower to a colleague, who would it be—and why?”

“To all of them. Everyone contributes and does a great job.”

“What do you value most in your colleagues at TCM?”

“TCM is a small company with less bureaucracy, which means we can move faster. But above all, it’s the friendliness and collaborative spirit that make a real difference.”

“How do you recharge after a long day?”

“A nap on the bus ride back to Bergen!”

“What advice would you give to someone considering a move to Norway or a career in carbon capture?”

“If you’re interested in CCS, Norway is the best place to be. The country has invested heavily in the field, and the results are impressive. Once you’re settled, life here is peaceful and fulfilling — especially for families. Children also benefit from a great education system.”

“What are your future plans?”

“To keep working hard until retirement — and then travel as much as possible. As an expat, I’ll probably live and work in a few more countries before I wrap up my career, and that sounds great to me.”

Written from the owners’ perspective, the paper details TCM’s role in maturing capture technologies and reducing deployment risks.

TCM`s technology history

Established in 2012, TCM is a public-private partnership between Gassnova  (on behalf of the Norwegian State), Equinor, Shell , and TotalEnergies. Its mission has been to develop, test, and verify CO₂ capture technologies for wide-scale application.

Among TCM’s key achievements are open test campaigns using non-proprietary solvents (MEA and CESAR-1), the world’s first emissions permit addressing health risks from amine-based CO₂ capture, and more than 70 scientific publications.

In 2021, TCM expanded with the Site for Emerging Technologies (SET), designed to test less mature technologies such as membranes and adsorbents. Five campaigns have already been conducted, four of them under EU or U.S. DOE projects.

“SET has lowered the barrier for innovation and helped bring new technologies closer to market. The knowledge and confidence gained benefit the entire CCS community,” Shah adds.

Key role in the Longship project

TCM also plays a key role in Norway’s Longship project, where both full scale capture plants have selected technologies previously tested at the Mongstad facility.

“Building on the already very useful results, there are still opportunities for continuing supporting CO₂ capture deployment at TCM today. In conclusion, TCM is a successful public-private partnership on the development of a climate change mitigation technology”.

Read the full article:
18 Years of Public-Private Partnership for Developing Post-Combustion CO₂ Capture at Technology Centre Mongstad in Norway

With a background from the Navy and a master’s degree in logistics and economics, Julian is passionate about technology and efficiency, as well as creating a safe and happy life for his family.

“How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“I got a temporary position as a controller at TCM while working at PwC and was quickly impressed by both the organization and the people at Mongstad. When I was offered a permanent position in a combined role as Business Developer and Controller, I gladly accepted. The company has a digital work culture, and as a new dad, it’s perfect to have Jessheim as my base rather than commuting three hours a day to Oslo. I travel to Mongstad about three days a month and attend conferences and customer meetings otherwise. I really value the flexibility that TCM offers.”

“What did you know about carbon capture before joining?”

“I was familiar with the term, but not the details. I’ve always been interested in technology, climate, and the environment – ever since my school days. I enjoy learning new things, and TCM gives me plenty of opportunities to do just that.”

“What’s the most exciting part of your job, Julian?”

“As a Business Developer, I meet customers and attend conferences and seminars. I spend a lot of time understanding their challenges related to CO₂ capture – whether it’s in process industries, cement production, energy, or waste management. It’s both exciting and inspiring to learn about what different companies do.”

“But you don’t have a technical background – is that a challenge?”

“Absolutely! I was recently in Athens for meetings with cement producers. Technical questions came up that I couldn’t answer alone. That’s when it’s great to lean on colleagues with chemistry and engineering backgrounds – many with PhDs. No one knows more about carbon capture than our Tech team and my manager, Rouzbeh Jafari. I’m a fast learner and apply my background in logistics and economics – which is very relevant in carbon capture too.”

“What does a typical workday look like for you?”

“When working from home, I have structured office days with digital meetings, planning customer visits to TCM, and ongoing market monitoring and follow-up. I stay updated via newsletters and social media to catch opportunities and trends relevant to us. I’m also involved in project work that requires focus and deep concentration – and it’s perfect that I’mrarely interrupted.”

“Doesn’t working from home get lonely?”

“Not really. Our customers are spread all over the world. And if I miss my colleagues, it’s easy to jump on a digital coffee chat. For now, my wife is also home with our newborn daughter, so we often have lunch together. Time zones can be a challenge, but we manage well – both Rouzbeh and our CTO Matthew work from Canada, and we have solid routines for cross-time-zone collaboration.”

“Who do you collaborate with the most?”

“Mostly with Rouzbeh in Business Development. Our main task is to generate new business for TCM. I also have a controller role in Finance and Administration, including responsibility for follow-up on EU-funded test campaigns in collaboration with the finance and project teams.”

“What gives you energy and joy at work?”

“Great colleagues! It’s satisfying when I’m asked to help solve specific challenges. TCM isn’t a large company, so cross-functional collaboration is both necessary and important – and I really enjoy that. When I’m at Mongstad, I also try to take part in social events.”

“How has your education and experience been useful at TCM?”

“My military background is very helpful – especially when it comes to dealing With uncertainty, learning quickly, and working purposefully. The discipline and teamwork I developed there are valuable. As a former elite swimmer, I’ve also brought my interest in health and the environment with me – which led to me becoming a vegetarian. Each of us can contribute to a cleaner planet – whether it’s through our diet, electric cars, solar panels, or carbon capture.”

“What do your family and friends say about your job?”

“Many of the people in my circle are interested in climate and the green transition. Even though TCM works in a niche field, they think my job is both important and exciting – and they’re fascinated that it all happens out at windswept Mongstad!”

“What’s the biggest challenge in your job?”

“Technology development is demanding and risky. Convincing customers of the benefits of carbon capture can be tough – because it often requires big investments and extensive planning. But with the expertise TCM has, we can help industry players make smart decisions and become better buyers of technology solutions. I truly believe in the services we provide.”

“If you were to give a colleague a flower – who and why?”

“I’d highlight our HSE Manager, Pål Venås. He’s a warm person who sees others, collaborates well, and contributes to a great working environment. And he always makes me smile and laugh 😊

“Julian, How do you recharge after work?”

“Right now, sleep is high on the wish list – with a little one in the house! When things settle down, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing and relaxing, working out, having a good meal, and maybe a movie or series before bed.”

“What are your plans for the future?”

“Personally, I hope our family thrives and that we live an active life filled with good experiences in nature. Professionally, I want to help TCM continue to develop as a competent and sustainable player in the green transition. The world is changing fast – and we must continuously adjust course to meet industry needs and contribute to solutions that benefit the climate and environment.”

Like potatoes – they can be used for almost anything, and that’s precisely what makes them indispensable.

For Gøril, the desire for new challenges led her to TCM. After 15 years at the same workplace, she was ready for a change. A job listing caught her attention, and by the summer of 2024, she had joined TCM as an Office Administrator.

Jorun, on the other hand, has been with TCM much longer. She started in 2013 as a hired consultant and has been permanently employed as a Project Controller since January 1, 2024. “My workdays are varied and fun,” she says, emphasizing how great it has been to have Gøril join the team.

Gøril (left) and Jorun always start the day with a little pep talk — a routine that sets the tone for the rest of the workday.

Daily Life at TCM

A typical day for Gøril consists of a range of administrative tasks. She coordinates visits, orders refreshments for meetings, sends agreements for signing, creates Teams channels, monitors shared inboxes, and even waters the plants. “I’m a little bit everywhere,” she says with a laugh.

Jorun, for her part, works with cost tracking, monthly reporting, financial follow-up of projects, budgeting, and procurement-related tasks, but the two work closely together on a daily basis. They always start the day with a little pep talk – a routine that sets the tone for the rest of the workday.

Exciting Experiences

Both appreciate the international environment at TCM, even though it sometimes presents language challenges. Gøril admits she was nervous about speaking English again after many years but has found her own solution: “I prefer to speak Norwegian, and several colleagues are learning the language along with me!”

Among the most memorable experiences, Jorun highlights Crown Prince Haakon’s visit to Mongstad in March last year. “I served him coffee with both hands – just to make sure I didn’t spill,” she says with a smile. “It was a big day with a lot of preparation, but everything went smoothly.”

CO₂ Capture and the Core Mission

As administrative staff, they are not directly involved in technology testing, but both see the value of TCM’s work. “Carbon capture is an important part of the solution to climate change,” says Gøril. “Even if I don’t understand all the technical details, I know we are contributing to a better future.”

Jorun agrees. She finds that many in the local community are familiar with the facility and its activities, often referring to it as the so-called “moon landing.” “I often have to explain that we have actually helped develop technologies that are now being used at full scale for CO₂ capture.”

Job Satisfaction and Frustrations

What gives them the most energy at work? For Gøril, it’s about getting things done. “When I can check tasks off my list, I’m satisfied. And, of course, my colleagues!”

Jorun appreciates the well-established routinesthat ensure everything runs smoothly. At the same time, she finds it frustrating when complex regulations make processes unnecessarily cumbersome.

Flowers for Good Colleagues

If they were to give a flower to a colleague, the choice would be easy. Gøril would give hers to Jorun: “She is always positive, helps me with everything, and has answers to most questions. Everyone should have a Jorun!”

Jorun, in turn, would give flowers to Sara in the cafeteria and Linda, who handles cleaning. “They do a fantastic job in making this place a pleasant environment.”

Recharging the Batteries

To unwind after busy workdays, both turn to nature. Gøril loves going for walks, preferably with an audiobook in her ears. Jorun does much of the same. Both have recently become grandparents and thoroughly enjoy spending time with the little ones.

Dreams and Future Plans

Gøril dreams of traveling more. “Italy, France, the Alps – I want to experience new places,” she says. And, of course, she looks forward to spending time with her grandchild.

Jorun also has the travel bug. “This year, we are planning a trip to Northern Norway. But I wouldn’t say no to a getaway to warmer climates either,” she adds with a smile.

Together, they aim to keep the wheels turning at TCM. They are flexible, solution-oriented, and always ready to step up – and they can take on just about anything, just like the potato.