Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to compensate local communities in Runcorn and Helsby constituency for potential impacts arising from the HyNet Scheme.

The government is working with a range of departments, regulators, and other public bodies to ensure the UK’s regulatory environment is well placed to support the deployment of CCUS and is committed to ensuring that the HyNet Cluster delivers tangible benefits for local communities.

The first two capture projects in the cluster—Padeswood Cement Works and Protos Energy Recovery Facility—are now under construction and will directly support 500 skilled jobs as part of 2,800 roles across the wider HyNet network.

These projects will generate significant local supply chain investment with substantial spend in the North West as part of the industry led, voluntary 50% UK content target and expand engineering apprenticeships, supporting regional growth and green employment opportunities.