Drax Group PLC welcomes the UK Department of Energy and the draft Net Zero position on bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) projects. The indicative position states that major BECCS projects are eligible to participate in the expansion of the Track-1 carbon sequestration process. This is an important development in the fight against climate change, as BECCS is considered a critical technology to achieve net zero emissions.
The UK Government’s draft position also sets the timetable for shortlisted projects to start negotiations from autumn 2024. Drax is involved in formal bilateral discussions with the Government on a transition mechanism between the end of current renewable programs in 2027 and the commissioning of BECCS at the Drax power plant.
In addition to support for BECCS, the UK government’s biomass strategy, published last month, recognizes the potential role of biomass in energy, heating and transport. BECCS’ priority role in meeting net-zero emissions plans is highlighted because of its ability to remove carbon dioxide on a large scale.
Drax CEO Will Gardiner commented on the government’s initial position, saying: “The government’s announcement is a useful development not only for BECCS in the UK, but also for the wider fight against climate change. “We can only achieve net zero emissions by investing in critical new green technologies, such as BECCS.”
The UK Department of Energy and Net Zero will now welcome feedback on their draft proposals, with further updates and publication of the final guidance expected.
