UK Government Approves HyNet Core Infrastructure with EET as Key Player

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Financial closure achieved for HyNet Industrial Cluster.
- EET's HPP1 aims to be UK's first large-scale low-carbon hydrogen plant.
- Stanlow to become a leading energy transition hub.
- Significant carbon capture and job protection expected.
- Future growth opportunities for North West businesses.
Stanlow, April 25 (NationPress) Essar Energy Transition (EET) extends its congratulations to Eni and the UK Government for successfully achieving financial closure on the essential carbon transport and storage initiative within the HyNet Industrial Cluster (the Liverpool Bay CCS).
"We are thrilled that Eni's construction phase is set to commence on the infrastructure that will facilitate HyNet; crucial for significantly reducing carbon emissions and attracting necessary investments, which in turn will safeguard and enhance jobs and industries across North West England and North Wales," stated the company.
EET's Hydrogen Production Plant (HPP1) is one of the four foundational projects designed to supply carbon for this infrastructure for permanent storage. HPP1 is anticipated to become the UK's first large-scale low-carbon hydrogen production facility, boasting a capacity of 350MW and capturing approximately 600,000 tonnes of CO2 annually—comparable to removing 125,000 vehicles from the roads.
The Stanlow Manufacturing Complex, operated by EET, is strategically located at the core of HyNet, supported by the EET Fuels refinery, which plays a pivotal role as both an offtake and enabler of HPP1. EET’s initiatives, bolstered by this announcement, are transforming Stanlow into a premier energy transition center capable of capturing around 2 million tonnes of carbon from the refinery through a comprehensive decarbonization strategy that encompasses electrification, carbon capture, and further development of Hydrogen Production Plant (HPP2) and Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF).
Stanlow is also poised to serve as a vital component in enabling other low-carbon, high-tech enterprises to leverage local hydrogen production and carbon infrastructure.
Tony Fountain, Managing Partner of Essar Energy Transition, remarked: “Congratulations to Eni and the UK government on achieving this significant milestone today. The HyNet CO2 pipeline is a revolutionary advancement for industry in the North West, affirming the unique status of our Stanlow Manufacturing Complex as a hub for energy transition.
“This opens enormous opportunities for the future expansion of businesses in North West England and guarantees Stanlow's pursuit of becoming one of Europe's foremost decarbonized refineries, ensuring the UK’s fuel security for years to come.”
Joe Seifert, CEO of EET Hydrogen, remarked: “We take immense pride in the role that EET Hydrogen’s HPP1 project plays as a cornerstone initiative within HyNet. Today’s announcement adds significant momentum as we advance toward the construction phase of our flagship project.”