- The UK awarded carbon storage permits for a £2bn project in Liverpool Bay.
- HyNet aims to store 109 million tonnes of CO2 over 25 years, starting mid-2028.
- The project will create 2,000 construction jobs and repurpose 90 miles of pipeline.
- The UK government committed up to £21.7 billion to support carbon storage development.
Project Overview
The UK has approved a major carbon storage project, granting permits for the HyNet initiative in Liverpool Bay. This project is part of the country's strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) awarded three carbon storage permits to Eni, enabling the storage of CO2 from industrial emitters in north-west England and north Wales.
Key Figures and Infrastructure
HyNet's first phase aims to store 109 million tonnes of CO2 over 25 years, equivalent to removing 60.1 million cars from the road for a year. The project will create 2,000 construction jobs and unlock £2 billion in supply chain contracts. It involves repurposing over 90 miles of offshore and onshore pipelines, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Timeline and Implementation
The permits allow Eni to prepare for the initial injection of 4.5 million tonnes of CO2 annually, starting as early as mid-2028. A new platform will be installed at the Douglas field to receive CO2 from the Point of Ayr Gas Terminal in Wales, transporting it to depleted reservoirs in Liverpool Bay for permanent storage.
Government Support and Future Potential
The UK government has committed up to £21.7 billion to support the development of HyNet and the Northern Endurance Partnership. The carbon storage industry is expected to contribute around £5 billion annually to the UK economy by 2050 and create 50,000 long-term jobs. With up to 78GT storage potential in the UK continental shelf, the country is poised to become a global leader in carbon storage.
