ExxonMobil withdraws proposed Solent CO₂ Pipeline Project from Fawley refinery

OIL giant ExxonMobil has withdrawn its controversial plan for an underground carbon capture pipeline through the New Forest.

As reported by the A&T, the company had identified three routes for the CO₂ pipeline from Fawley refinery to a subterranean saline aquifer off the coast of the Isle of Wight.

But it has now confirmed it will not proceed with the scheme – estimated to cost around £5bn – due to “a lack of policy certainty and timelines”.

One of the routes cut 20 miles across the Forest via Lepe to the coast between Milford and Barton, while the other two run through the island.

Concerns had been raised by many over the potential impacts of the scheme, with consultant NHS physician Dr Bryan Sheinman, who lives at Buckler’s Hard, setting up an online petition highlighting the “health and environmental risks” such a pipeline could pose.

An ExxonMobil spokesperson said: “Due to lack of policy certainty and timelines, we will not proceed with appraisal of CO2 storage opportunities in the English Channel at this time.

“We remain committed to reducing emissions and progressing large-scale emission reduction projects when there is supportive policy in place.

“We sincerely appreciate the valuable feedback and participation from communities and stakeholders during the Solent CO2 pipeline consultation process.”

The decision was welcomed by New Forest East MP, Sir Julian Lewis, who said: “This will come as a great relief to numerous constituents in the Forest and on the Island.

“I commend ExxonMobil both for its willingness to think again and its assurances that its valued and vital contribution to the local economy will continue, despite this reluctant but welcome change, of course.”

The news has also been welcomed by Cllr Malcolm Wade, leader of the Liberal Democrats at New Forest District Council, who said: “The pipeline would effectively cut through protected natural areas and disrupt ecosystems and habitats.

“The construction process alone would have a substantial impact on the natural environment, requiring an enormous amount of clearance, destroy natural vegetation and cause significant land and soil disturbance by compaction and root disturbance, which in turn would impact crops and natural habitats.

“In addition there would considerable impact and disruption on New Forest people and communities, all of which is now thankfully going to be avoided.”

He added: “We need to be looking at investing in green energy – so wind, solar, tidal – is where the future should be.

“Our national park is a precious asset and needs our protection for future generations.

“ExxonMobil globally made $8.2bn profits in the first quarter of this year. We were not prepared to preside over such wanton destruction for yet more short-term commercial gain.”

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust has also welcomed the decision, with CEO Debbie Tann saying it was “great news” for the Forest.

“We had raised major concerns about the lack of critical ecological data in the consultation, which made it impossible to provide valid feedback or to be able to ensure crucial habitats would not be damaged beyond repair.

“We understand that carbon capture technology may be required to decarbonise hard-to-reach sectors, but this must never be used as an excuse to prolong and expand fossil fuel use, and it should never come at the expense of nature. “