Public participation by electronic means is open from Wednesday, July 6 to Monday, August 17, 2026 on the application for the granting of an exclusive permit for research into underground formations suitable for the geological storage of carbon dioxide, known as the « Haut CO2mminges Permit », in the departments of Haute-Garonne and Hautes-Pyrénées, for the benefit of the company TeréCO2 SAS.
What you need to know
Public participation regarding the underground CO₂ storage research project known as « Permis du Haut CO2mminges » has ended. It took place from July 6 to August 17, 2026, and concerned an application submitted by TeréCO2 SAS in the Haute-Garonne and Hautes-Pyrénées departments.
The Ministry of the Economy’s website, dated September 28, 2026, indicates that the consultation is over. It specifies that the application still requires a decision from the Minister responsible for mines: public participation therefore does not mean that the permit has been granted.
The project in question
TeréCO2 SAS has applied for an exclusive exploration permit for a period of 15 years. The proposed area covers approximately 173 km² in the Comminges geological basin, encompassing all or part of the municipalities in the two departments concerned.
The aim of the application is to identify a geological structure that could be suitable for carbon dioxide storage. The proposed program includes studies and data acquisition, a possible 3D seismic survey, and one or two exploratory boreholes with CO₂ injection tests.
What the consultation allowed us to examine
Public participation was a step in the application review process. The file was open for consultation, with the exception of documents protected by the rules set out in the environmental code.
The ministry clarifies that an underground storage permit does not, in itself, grant the right to carry out drilling. For that, the permit holder must also apply for environmental authorization from the prefecture.
Information to verify
- Project: Permit for the Upper CO2mminges.
- Applicant company: TeréCO2 SAS.
- Departments concerned: Haute-Garonne and Hautes-Pyrénées.
- Planned area: approximately 173 km².
- Required duration: 15 years.
- Public participation period: from July 6 to August 17, 2026; the consultation is now closed.
What can interested people do?
The period for submitting comments has closed. The ministry provides access, via the project page, to a summary of the comments and proposals received. Those wishing to follow the project can also consult this page to learn about the announced stages of the procedure.
Key takeaways
The public consultation on the application for underground CO₂ storage exploration in the Comminges region closed on August 17, 2026. TeréCO2 SAS is applying for an exploration permit, but the official website indicates that the application is still subject to ministerial approval. A permit, if granted, would not, in itself, authorize drilling.
Source: See original source
