The UK’s carbon capture and storage (CCS) sector is experiencing a significant surge, with thousands of new jobs being created across Wales and North West England as the country intensifies its investment in clean energy and climate solutions. The HyNet cluster, a prominent CCS hub in the North West, is at the forefront of this growth, driven by government support and strategic industry partnerships.
With the Prime Minister’s approval of the Liverpool Bay Transportation & Storage network in April, two additional clean energy projects are now in active negotiations to join the HyNet site. These projects are expected to generate 2,800 skilled carbon capture jobs, encompassing roles in engineering, construction, and technical fields. Industry Minister Sarah Jones highlighted the significance of this development, stating, “We are securing the jobs of the future, the power for our homes and the protection of our planet by becoming world leaders on carbon capture and storage. These new projects will bring industrial renewal, unlock growth and secure an additional 800 good, skilled jobs for local people across North Wales and the North West – taking the total supported by HyNet to 2,800.”
The first project, Connah’s Quay Low Carbon Power in North Wales, aims to produce enough low-carbon energy to power 900,000 homes while capturing harmful CO₂ emissions. The second, Ince Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (InBECCS) in Cheshire, will convert waste wood into energy while removing greenhouse gases, making it the UK’s first negative emissions project with CCS. These initiatives are not only reducing emissions but also paving the way for long-term careers in carbon capture and the broader clean energy economy.
The HyNet cluster is part of the UK Government’s £21.7bn commitment to the carbon capture sector, with £9.4bn already allocated this parliament. As CCS technology scales, it is anticipated to support up to 50,000 carbon capture jobs by the 2030s, aiding in the decarbonisation of heavy industry and positioning the UK as a global leader in clean energy. Five additional projects, including hydrogen and direct air capture, are also being considered for future integration, aligning with the government’s strategy to build a regional hydrogen economy and ensure energy security.
The rapid expansion of carbon capture is not only helping the UK meet its net zero goals but is also driving long-term economic development in regions like the North West and Wales. As heavy industry begins to decarbonise, projects like HyNet are creating a new wave of skilled employment in engineering, construction, operations, and emerging clean technologies. Carbon capture jobs are preserving existing industrial skills while opening up new, high-quality career paths in the green economy. From technicians to project managers, the sector offers diverse opportunities for workers across the country.
This development underscores the potential of carbon capture to shape the future of the energy sector, fostering both environmental and economic benefits. As the UK continues to invest in and scale up CCS technology, it is poised to become a global leader in the clean energy transition, driving innovation and creating sustainable job opportunities.