Cash incentives are being offered to Isle of Wight landowners whose land falls within the two proposed Solent CO2 Pipeline corridors.
The project involves installing an underground pipeline designed to transport CO2 to a secure storage location beneath the English Channel. ExxonMobil says the strategy is being implemented to reduce carbon emissions.
Pipeline corridors across the Island
There are two possible routes being proposed on the Isle of Wight, a north to south route and a north to west route – both cutting across parts of the Island’s National Landscape (formerly known as AONB), with the north to south route including Parkhurst Forest.
Cash incentives for landowner participation
ExxonMobil has requested access to land to carry out environmental and walkover surveys. They say these surveys are essential to gather information that will shape the final plan for the pipeline route.
The letter states that landowners who consent to these surveys will receive a payment of £500. If ExxonMobil needs to access the land during the night, between 6pm and 7am, an additional payment of £250 will be made.
Large opposition
ExxonMobil’s plans to proceed with the Solent CO2 Pipeline Project as part of its efforts to advance carbon capture and storage (CCS) in the Solent region has been met with large objection.
An online petition against the proposal has gathered pace, attracting 4,277 signatures, at time of publishing.
A Facebook group to discuss the project has also been formed to share information.
Survey details and consent
In its letter to landowners, Exxonmobil outlines that the survey will not necessarily indicate a confirmed route for the pipeline. Instead, they say, the surveys are part of a broader process to evaluate several potential corridors for the pipeline.
If landowners consent to the acces, they will be giving authorisation for access to their land for up to 12 months.
Contact information and support
The company also offers to cover reasonable fees for landowners who wish to use professional advisors or land agents to discuss the matter.
Exxonmobil say this engagement with landowners represents a crucial step in the early stages of the Solent CO2 Pipeline Project.
Have your say
The public consultation closes at 6pm on Thursday 12th September 2024. You can find out more about the project by visiting the website.
The final consultation meeting on the Island takes place on Tuesday 3rd September between 10.30am and 6.30pm, at Phoenix Knights Centre, Cockleton Lane, Cowes PO31 8QE.
You can provide feedback via the project website. Alternatively, have your say by email: [email protected]
Or send by post to: Solent CO₂ Pipeline Project, 1180 Eskdale Road, Winnersh, Wokingham, RG41 5TU | UK
