Shell Catalysts & Technologies has confirmed that its advanced CANSOLV CO2 capture system will be central to the Net Zero Teesside Power (NZT Power) project. This groundbreaking initiative recently reached its final investment decision (FID) and is now advancing to the construction phase, representing a critical milestone in the UK’s journey toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The FID achievement also underscores the rapid global adoption of carbon capture technologies, as NZT Power becomes the third deployment of Shell’s CANSOLV system to secure FID within a year.

NZT Power will produce up to 742 megawatts of low-carbon, dispatchable power, becoming one of the world’s first commercial-scale gas-fired power plants to integrate carbon capture technology. Shell’s proprietary CANSOLV CO2 capture system, utilizing a cutting-edge amine solution, will enable the facility to capture up to two million tonnes of CO2 annually from the emissions of its combined-cycle gas turbines. The captured carbon will be transported via the Northern Endurance Partnership to secure storage beneath the North Sea, ensuring permanent removal from the atmosphere.

The project is being executed by a consortium led by Technip Energies, in collaboration with Shell Catalysts & Technologies, GE Vernova, and Balfour Beatty. Following a competitive three-year selection process, the consortium was awarded the contract in 2024, reflecting the expertise and innovation of the team. Located in Teesside, UK, the NZT Power project forms part of the East Coast Cluster, a flagship initiative designated as one of the UK government’s first two carbon capture, usage, and storage (CCUS) clusters with Track 1 status.

The significance of this project extends beyond its immediate goals. NZT Power demonstrates the UK’s leadership in advancing innovative decarbonization strategies, particularly through its integration of carbon capture with gas-fired power generation. This initiative directly supports the UK’s target of achieving a fully decarbonized power sector by 2030 and net-zero emissions by mid-century. It serves as a model for other nations and industries looking to reduce emissions while maintaining reliable energy generation.

Nick Flinn, Director of Shell Catalysts & Technologies, highlighted the project’s transformative potential: “Shell’s selection as the carbon capture technology provider for Net Zero Teesside Power reflects the proven capabilities of Shell’s CANSOLV CO2 technology in delivering substantial, reliable emissions reductions at scale.”

Christophe Malaurie, Senior Vice President of Decarbonisation at Technip Energies, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are proud to partner with Shell Catalysts & Technologies to deliver this pioneering project. Shell’s CANSOLV CO2 technology addresses the unique challenges of dispatchable power decarbonization, paving the way for a cost-effective and sustainable energy transition in the UK.”

As NZT Power progresses, it underscores the essential role of innovative technologies and global partnerships in shaping a sustainable energy future. By establishing a benchmark for integrating carbon capture with power generation, this project exemplifies the transformative potential of collaborative solutions in the global energy transition.