Two pioneering carbon capture projects have officially signed final contracts with the UK Government, securing 500 skilled clean energy jobs and marking a major step forward in Britain’s journey to net zero.
The UK’s first carbon capture-enabled cement plant at Padeswood, and one of the world’s first full-scale carbon capture waste-to-energy facilities at Protos in Ellesmere Port are now ready to begin construction.
These projects will remove 1.2 million tonnes of CO₂ annually, using world-leading carbon capture technology to decarbonise two of the most emissions-intensive industries: cement and waste-to-energy. Without carbon capture, these sectors have no viable route to cut emissions.
The projects are the first anchor developments to join Eni’s Liverpool Bay Transportation & Storage network, part of the HyNet carbon capture cluster, which was approved by the Prime Minister earlier this year. HyNet spans North Wales and the North West, using new and repurposed infrastructure to safely capture and store carbon emissions underground.
Together, Padeswood and Protos will directly support 500 skilled jobs, including roles for engineers, technicians, construction workers and health & safety experts. They form part of the 2,800 jobs expected across the wider HyNet network.
These shovel-ready projects are a cornerstone of the government’s Industrial Strategy, backed by £9.4 billion in funding announced in the June Spending Review. They will not only secure long-term employment in Britain’s industrial heartlands, but also position the UK as a global leader in carbon capture technology.
By investing in proven decarbonisation solutions, the UK is preserving proud British industries while creating export opportunities for homegrown innovation. British companies will gain a competitive edge in the global green economy, driving growth and sustainability.
Michael Shanks, Energy Minister, said:
“Our clean energy mission means good jobs, regional growth, and investment for local communities.
“These trailblazing projects showcase North Wales and the North West’s workforce on the global stage – leading the charge in the clean industries of the future and powering Britain’s reindustrialisation.”
The final investment decisions, signed with the Low Carbon Contracts Company, mean construction will begin shortly. These projects provide a crucial lifeline for the cement and waste sectors, ensuring their survival in a low-carbon future.
As the UK accelerates towards net zero, the launch of these carbon capture facilities sends a clear message: clean growth, secure jobs, and industrial resilience are at the heart of Britain’s green transition.
Image credit: iStock
