The Peak Cluster CCS project in the UK has moved into the next stage, aiming to capture CO2 from four cement and lime plants and store it in depleted gas fields under the Irish Sea. The project targets reducing emissions from these hard-to-abate industries by 40%, with plans to transport 3 million tonnes of CO2 per year. It has secured investment from the National Wealth Fund and could become the largest offshore carbon store in the UK. Cement and lime production accounts for about 8% of global CO2 emissions, with most coming from the chemical process itself rather than fuel burning. The project uses the Morecambe gas fields, which will stop production by 2030. Critics point out that carbon storage remains expensive and unproven at scale, and could prolong the life of high-emitting industries.
