Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether her Department provides guidance on the minimum safe separation distances between carbon dioxide pipelines and residential areas.

DESNZ does not prescribe a single minimum safe separation distance between carbon dioxide pipelines and residential areas. The safety of CO₂ pipelines is considered through the relevant regulatory and planning frameworks, taking account of the circumstances and risks associated with individual projects.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the national regulator for workplace health and safety and regulates the health and safety aspects of CCUS operations within its remit, including CO₂ pipelines.

DESNZ and HSE are also involved in the joint industry Project Skylark, which is examining the safe operation of CO₂ pipelines and contributing to the evidence base for future regulatory and operational decision-making.