An Isle of Wight MP has written to the government to raise concerns about ExxonMobil’s Solent CO2 pipeline.
In a public statement announced yesterday, Richard Quigley, for IW West, said he had written to the secretary of state for energy security and net zero’s parliamentary private secretary to air his concerns and “understand” the “government’s official position”.
Ed Miliband MP, the secretary of state for energy security and net zero since July 5, has overall responsibility for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero – a branch of government tasked with the security of the UK’s long-term energy supply, lowering bills and achieving net zero which means reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions to effectively zero.
Mr Quigley has also “raised the issue” in writing with Bill Esterson MP, the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee’s newly appointed chair.
The Energy Security and Net Zero Committee provides scrutiny of the policy, spending and management of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero as well as public bodies such as Ofgem and the Committee on Climate Change.
Mr Quigley said:
“There has been considerable public concern and growing opposition to ExxonMobil’s Solent CO2 pipeline proposal.
“As MP for Isle of Wight West, I have already received large volumes of correspondence relating to the matter and continue to receive objections daily.
“I have made my opposition to the proposal clear, and I will continue to oppose the plans.
“The proposed route would see the pipeline run from the refinery at Fawley and cut directly through the Island’s landscape (in Isle of Wight West).
“The proposed route and technology raise significant safety and practical concerns.
“It is also likely to cause long-lasting and potentially irreversible damage to the Island’s landscape and wildlife.”
A spokesperson for ExxonMobil has previously said:
“We recognise there are diverse views across the Isle of Wight and Hampshire, and we’re eager to hear them through our consultation, which is open until September 30.
“The pipeline will be buried underground and once it has been installed, we will reinstate the land to its former state where possible.
“Typically, this includes replacing topsoil, restoring access routes and fencing, reinstating drainage, and reseeding and replanting as appropriate.
“Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a proven technology, recognised by the UK Government as essential to reducing emissions while meeting energy needs, and CO2 pipelines have been safely used worldwide for more than 50 years.
“We are committed to protecting the Isle of Wight’s environment and will carefully review any potential impacts on local habitats and wildlife.”
ExxonMobil has been approached for further comment.
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