Welsh Government publishes strategic policy on carbon capture and storage
The Welsh Government has published its strategic policy on carbon capture and storage (CCS), establishing a framework to support the deployment of CCS infrastructure in four specific circumstances, including where CCS: (1) makes a measurable contribution to decarbonisation targets and objectives; (2) supports and accelerates the transition from fossil fuels; (3) prioritises emissions avoidance; and (4) contributes to sustainable economic growth. The policy does not introduce new evidence requirements but provides additional context for existing consenting regimes, including those relating to planning, environmental permitting and licensing. It specifies that developers are required to evidence emissions reductions only at the facilities they operate, in line with existing consenting requirements, and are not required to provide evidence of net global emissions reductions. Additional guidance will be issued to clarify evidence requirements and explain how the policy integrates with existing consenting regimes. The policy applies solely to capture and storage considerations, with CO₂ utilisation to be addressed under a separate policy. Alongside this, the Welsh Government has published a summary of responses to its December 2024 consultation on its preferred policy for CCUS.