A revolutionary carbon capture facility is set to gain approval in Cheshire. This initiative aims to address climate change by capturing CO2 emissions.
Cheshire West and Chester’s planning committee is reviewing the proposal for a facility at the Protos energy hub. This potential approval marks a significant step in UK’s carbon reduction efforts.
The proposed carbon capture facility aims to cut down carbon emissions equivalent to removing 200,000 cars from the roads annually. It is a part of the larger Protos energy hub near Ellesmere Port. If realised, this facility would be a pioneering step towards achieving national carbon reduction targets.
This ambitious project plans to capture around 380,000 tonnes of CO2 each year. The CO2 would be channelled into depleted gas fields under the Irish Sea, significantly contributing to the decarbonisation effort.
The carbon capture system will operate with the neighbouring Energy Recovery Facility, which is under construction. It will sequester CO2 from flue gases, mitigating the environmental impact.
The application for the capture facility, alongside a proposal for a supportive spur pipeline, is expected to gain approval. Local planning committees are reviewing these applications.
During its construction phase, the project is expected to create 250 full-time jobs.
Once operational, the carbon capture plant will provide seven permanent positions, boosting local employment. Elton Parish Council supports this initiative, highlighting its potential for job creation and development of green skills.
The Protos hub, developed by Peel NRE, integrates diverse technologies to intertwine energy-intensive industries with low-carbon sources.
It is anticipated that this comprehensive initiative could support over 3,000 jobs and attract investments exceeding £700 million in the local area.
The Protos hub is integral to the HyNet North West project, which involves a hydrogen and CCUS scheme.
This collaboration could enable hydrogen to be blended into the gas grid for domestic and commercial use. It offers a low-carbon substitute to conventional fuels, with potential rollout by 2024.
The facility’s development aligns with broader regional strategies to foster greener energy solutions.
Local communities are involved through consultations, ensuring that environmental and economic benefits are optimised.
A decision from the planning committee is imminent, with a meeting set for next Tuesday in Ellesmere Port. Approval would pave the way for a significant advancement in carbon capture technology.
The prospective carbon capture facility at Cheshire’s Protos hub represents a vital component in the UK’s carbon reduction strategy.
Its approval would not only bolster the local economy with jobs and investments but also contribute substantially to environmental sustainability.
