Written question WQ96158

Following our recent public consultation, we are finalising our strategic policy for carbon capture and storage, which has been drafted to provide clarity for industry, developers, investors, and planning authorities in Wales. The policy makes clear the vital importance of carbon capture in decarbonising Welsh energy production and industry, and encourages investment in innovative projects that support sustainable decarbonisation.

Welsh Government has also commissioned a number of reports, information and research to inform our understanding of carbon capture and storage, and its potential impact on Welsh citizens, the economy and the environment. For examples see A carbon capture, utilisation, and storage network for Wales: report and the associated supplementary report.

Providing a clear policy framework, publishing reports and information, and working with UK Government to develop a clear and effective regulatory framework will facilitate and encourage both academia and industry exploring and investing in the necessary research and development.

To further encourage innovation, we established Net Zero Industry Wales (NZIW) in 2022 as an independent organisation to support the development of decarbonisation pathways and help co-ordinate sectoral pathways to net zero. We also continue to work closely with the South Wales Industrial Cluster (SWIC), the North-East Wales Industrial Cluster (NEWID) and the HyNet project to understand and inform how industry and energy generation in Wales will deliver decarbonisation.