Heidelberg Materials has received approval to build a carbon capture and storage (CCS) unit at its Padeswood plant in Cymru (Wales), marking a major milestone in sustainable cement production. Construction will begin later this year, with net zero cement production expected by 2029.
This will be the company’s first full-scale CCS facility, designed to capture around 0.8 million tons of CO₂ annually, equal to 95% of process emissions. Using biomass fuels from food, wood, and paper waste, the plant could even achieve net negative emissions.
A Decarbonization Cluster: HyNet North West
Following the success of the Brevik CCS plant in Norway, the Padeswood facility is part of the HyNet North West decarbonization cluster. Captured CO₂ will be transported through underground pipelines and stored beneath Liverpool Bay. The cluster also integrates hydrogen production and storage, positioning it as one of Europe’s most advanced clean-energy ecosystems.
Technology and Financing
The project’s Front End Engineering Design (FEED) is led by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Worley, using the Advanced KM CDR Process—an amine-based carbon capture system.
Financing operates under a Contract for Difference (CFD) with the UK government. Heidelberg Materials will invest upfront, with returns linked to the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) carbon price.
A Step Toward Industry-Wide Learning
The Padeswood project forms part of a broader decarbonization roadmap, testing different technologies, partnerships, and regional models. Its location in northern UK is symbolic—linking the Industrial Revolution’s birthplace with the next era of sustainable industry.
Heidelberg Materials’ commitment demonstrates that cement can lead the transition to net zero, proving that innovation and tradition can coexist to create a cleaner future.
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