WSP have been appointed to lead on planning, environmental, stakeholder and land advisory advice for HyNet North West’s CO2 pipeline.

HyNet North West claims to be the most advanced hydrogen and carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) project in the UK, and represents a significant piece of the UK’s CCUS infrastructure.

Both hydrogen and CCUS are identified by the Committee on Climate Change as essential to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and so the development of the HyNet project will contribute to achieving the UK’s target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

The goal of the project is to reduce emissions from industry, homes, transport and the power generation sector across the north-west and north Wales, supporting clean economic growth and a transition to a low carbon economy.

Appointed by Progressive Energy Limited, WSP will provide the consenting, environmental impact assessment, stakeholder and land advisory services to support the submission of a Development Consent Order (DCO) application for the CO2 pipeline.

Communications specialists Copper Consultancy and planning consultants Axis will be supporting WSP and Progressive Energy on stakeholder engagement, communications and planning for the proposed pipeline.

The DCO relates to the construction of a new section of pipeline between Stanlow and a location near Connah’s Quay, where it will connect to an existing underground and undersea pipeline which will safely transport the CO2 to depleted offshore gas and oil reservoirs under the seabed in Liverpool Bay.

Mike Greslow, technical director in WSP’s planning consultancy, said: “HyNet is a transformative project for communities across the north west of England and north Wales. Hydrogen and CCUS have the potential to decarbonise the UK’s industrial clusters, prevent CO2 from entering the atmosphere and provide clean economic growth. We’re delighted to be advising Progressive Energy on this project which is at the forefront of efforts to achieve the UK’s ambition of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.”

David Parkin, director, Progressive Energy Limited, said: “HyNet holds the potential for clean economic growth and jobs for communities across the north-west of England and north Wales. Hydrogen and CCUS will play a major role in achieving the UK’s 2050 net zero target and we’re delighted to be supported by WSP, Copper Consultancy and Axis to deliver this stage of the scheme.”

Annabel John, director at Copper Consultancy, said: “We know that there is strong public support for reaching net zero emissions and for greener energy, transport and manufacturing but new solutions need understanding to help ensure successful delivery. Communities and industry across the north-west are set to benefit from the delivery of hydrogen infrastructure in their region and HyNet has a compelling story to tell. Alongside our key partners, we are looking forward to bringing this story to life for people and playing a small part in forging a greener future for generations to come.”

Andrew Russell, technical director at AXIS said, “This project marks a very important step in achieving the UKs commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, identifying the north-west as a leader in the UKs fight on climate change. We are pleased to be supporting WSP and Progressive Energy in the delivery of this essential infrastructure project.”