Cross party coalition launched to secure government backing for HyNet North West

HyNet North West today launches its cross-party coalition to secure backing from the UK Government for its plans to transform the North West of England and North Wales into one of the world's first low carbon industrial clusters.

• Local MPs Justin Madders (Labour) and Andy Carter (Conservative) announced as cross-party Co-Chairs of coalition group
• Project will protect 340,000+ manufacturing jobs in the region and accelerate the UK’s journey to net zero
• Coalition calls for government to select HyNet as one of Britain’s first industrial carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) clusters as the countdown to the decision begins

HyNet will supply clean hydrogen and store carbon dioxide, helping businesses across the region cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce costs, and launch green products. It is one of several regional clusters nationwide bidding for “track one” status from the government that will allow it to start operating by 2025. The submission for bids closed today with the Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy expected to take a decision in October.

Justin Madders, Labour MP for Ellesmere Port, and Andy Carter, Conservative MP for Warrington South, have joined HyNet North West as Co-Chairs of the cross-party coalition group that is urging the Government to select HyNet in the first phase of approvals and avoid delays that could hit businesses across the region.

HyNet will position the North West and North Wales as a global leader in clean energy. It would cut emissions quicker than other industry clusters across the country – reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 10 million tonnes every year by 2030, which is the equivalent of taking 4 million cars off the road. The project will also be able to deliver 80% of the UK’s clean hydrogen target for transport, industry and homes for 2030 and 50% of the hydrogen needed to meet the UK’s 2050 net zero target.

HyNet will also catalyse job growth across the North West and North Wales, delivering great value for the taxpayer. HyNet has the potential to deliver a £17 billion economic impact locally, protect more than 340,000 manufacturing jobs in the region, and help create 6,000 new low carbon roles. Nationwide, HyNet will support up to 75,000 jobs by 2035 and generate up to £31 billion GVA by 2050.

HyNet has received strong support from businesses that are ready to cut emissions, avoid rising carbon costs and invest in green growth. For example, this week Cheshire-based glass bottle manufacturer and filler, Encirc, said that joining consortium would help it protect 1000 jobs and create 200 new roles. Other companies that have backed the scheme include Progressive Energy, Cadent, Essar, INOVYN, Eni, University of Chester, CF Fertilisers and Hanson. The consortium is also working with Pilkington NSG, Unilever, Intergen and Viridor to integrate them into HyNet’s plans. Hydrogen production technology is being supplied by UK company, Johnson Matthey. Track one status would help these businesses deliver their investment plans and avoid disruption. The bid has been submitted by HyNet partner, Eni.

On July 14th, Justin and Andy will be chairing HyNet’s first virtual Open House event, where there will be an opportunity to hear more from them about their support for the project and from businesses who are part of the HyNet consortium, as well as find out more information about how you can get behind this local campaign in the coming weeks.

Justin Madders, Labour MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston and Co-Chair of the Coalition for HyNet North West, said: “The HyNet project gives the North West and North Wales an unprecedented opportunity to be at the forefront of the low carbon transition, establishing the region as a leader in the development of the hydrogen economy and accelerating the UK’s journey to net zero. I’m proud to be Co-Chairing this coalition to ensure the government delivers for this region.”

Andy Carter, Conservative MP for Warrington South and Co-Chair of the Coalition for HyNet North West, commented: “HyNet North West is essential for securing the future of our region, helping local businesses protect manufacturing jobs and build the region’s skills base in new low carbon industries. This ground-breaking project will dramatically increase the supply of clean hydrogen in the UK, helping the government reach its green industrial revolution targets.”

David Parkin, Director of HyNet North West, added: “This is an extremely exciting time for HyNet North West, as we kickstart our campaign to demonstrate how our project brings a significant jobs boost to the area, and would accelerate the UK’s journey to net zero. Businesses in the North West and North Wales are ready to cut emissions and invest in green growth, but they need the government to grant HyNet track one status to keep their plans on track.”

Find out more about HyNet North West here