The Planning Inspectorate has approved a major carbon capture and storage (CCS) project in Teesside, northern England.

The project, known as Net Zero Teesside Power, aims to be the world's first commercial-scale gas-fired power station with full carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) utilizing a pipeline.

The application, submitted by Net Zero Teesside Power Limited and Net Zero North Sea Storage Limited in July 2021, includes a CO2 gathering network, a combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plant with a capacity of 850 gigawatts, and a 145km-section of a CO2 transport pipeline for storage in the North Sea.

Following a public examination that considered evidence from stakeholders and interested parties, the Examining Authority recommended approval to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero on February 10, 2023.

The decision is based on a comprehensive review of the project's potential benefits and impacts, including its contribution to achieving net zero emissions and its compatibility with local planning policies.

"The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the Examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State," said Paul Morrison, the Planning Inspectorate's Chief Executive.

The decision, along with the recommendation and supporting evidence, are available on the National Infrastructure Planning website. The Secretary of State has the final say on the project's approval.

The project represents a significant step forward for CCUS technology, which is seen as essential for achieving net zero emissions. If approved, it could pave the way for further development of this technology in the UK and beyond.