RWE submits planning application for Carbon Capture Project at Staythorpe Power Station

RWE has submitted an application to vary the existing Section 36⁽¹⁾ consent at Staythorpe Power Station, proposing the installation of state-of-the-art carbon capture technology. This transformative project represents a significant milestone in the decarbonisation of flexible power generation, maintaining UK energy security.

Following installation of carbon capture technology, the power station could provide approximately 1.5GWe of decarbonised, reliable electricity—enough to power around 3.3 million homes. Once operational, the carbon capture plant could capture up to 3.7 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) annually, the equivalent of removing around 740,000 petrol cars from the UK’s roads. 

In addition to environmental benefits, the project will create around 20 new high skilled permanent roles and generate hundreds more during construction, providing a substantial boost to the local economy.

The captured CO₂ will be safely transported via pipeline for permanent storage beneath the North Sea by a third party developer and operator. The proposals have been developed following comprehensive environmental and technical assessments, including flood risk, air quality, archaeology, and local ecology. We would like to thank everyone who attended the in-person events and online webinars during the consultation in February 2025. Since then, feedback has been reviewed, and helped to inform the plans for the Section 36 Variation application to DESNZ.

RWE remains committed to transparency and ongoing public engagement as the project progresses. Subject to planning approval with a decision from the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero anticipated in Spring 2027, government emitter selection and investment decision, construction could begin as soon as Winter 2031. For more information please visit the website, email [email protected] or call 0808 303 7087.