UK Backs Groundbreaking HyNet Blue Hydrogen Projects with £21.7 Billion Boost

The UK Government announced funding to support carbon capture and blue hydrogen projects in northern England, including the HyNet cluster. EET is leading a major hydrogen production initiative at Stanlow, promising significant carbon reductions and economic benefits through new job creation and industrial decarbonization.

The UK Government has unveiled a significant investment of £21.7 billion over 25 years to foster the development of carbon capture clusters, including the HyNet project in northern England. This initiative aims to construct two major carbon capture hubs that will play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions by storing over 8.5 million tonnes of CO2 annually beneath the Irish and North Seas.

Essar Energy Transition (EET), integral to the HyNet project, is setting up a low-carbon hydrogen production hub at Stanlow. EET's ambitious plan features two hydrogen production plants, collectively capable of generating 1,350 MW of hydrogen while capturing 2.5 million tonnes of carbon per year. This venture is expected to significantly reduce fossil fuel dependency among regional industries.

The local use of this low-carbon hydrogen, notably by EET's Stanlow refinery and other manufacturers like Encirc and Tata Chemicals, marks a pioneering step in creating the world's first low-carbon refining, glass, and chemical manufacturing sites. The development of these projects promises to secure jobs, drive investment, and position the UK as a leader in sustainable industrial practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)