An estimated 18,900 new skilled jobs could be created in Solent and Hampshire between 2023 and 2035, according to a landmark report launched in Westminster.

The detailed investigation, commissioned by The Solent Cluster, highlighted the potential benefits to communities from key decarbonisation projects in the region.

The report reveals that The Solent Cluster could be a 'catalyst for sustainable growth'.

One of its priorities is to support the development of a 'world-class talent base', helping people at all stages of their careers to build the skills needed to respond to new technologies.

It estimates that total capital expenditure could sustain 70,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Government ministers, Members of Parliament from across Solent and Hampshire, and key industry and political stakeholders were present at the launch of the report, which was hosted by Alex Cunningham MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage.

The gathering, held at the House of Commons, was organised by the Carbon Capture and Storage Association.

Alex Cunningham MP, chair of the APPG for CCUS, said: “Carbon capture and storage will play a critical role in our reaching Net Zero, and so I very much welcome the launch of this report highlighting the contribution, benefits, and opportunities it could bring to the Solent and beyond.  We have made some progress with CCUS in recent times but the Government must accelerate its decision making around these projects and give the green light to investors across the country who are keen to get on with the job and deliver.”

The report also revealed that Cluster's anchor projects could secure £11.9 billion investment, contributing more than £4.4 billion in gross value to the economy by 2035.

Another facet of the report was the potential for the Solent region to produce 'significant volumes' of Sustainable Aviation Fuel. This green fuel could be transported to Heathrow and Gatwick airports via existing pipelines, further establishing Solent's position within the UK's Net Zero journey.

Penny Mordaunt MP for Portsmouth North and leader of the House of Commons, said: “This report confirms the huge opportunity that decarbonising the Solent offers, from the creation of new skilled jobs to supporting key national industries like aviation and shipping on their own journeys to Net Zero. It is crucial we get these key foundation projects up and running as soon as possible.”

Ruth Herbert, chief executive of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association said: “It’s great to see plans for the Solent Cluster moving forward. There are clear local and national benefits from developing CO2 and hydrogen infrastructure across the UK."

Anne-Marie Mountifield, chair of The Solent Cluster, said: “Our vision is for the Solent to become a world-leading centre for low-carbon investment, catalysing the growth of the regional economy and beyond. Through the deployment of critical technologies, we aim to create new opportunities for green jobs and position our region as a talent hub for next-generation technical skills.

“The Solent has a unique potential to accelerate Net Zero ambition by transforming energy production and consumption. Our anchor projects could not only strengthen energy resilience but also create a low carbon economy, boost economic growth, and contribute to the expansion of the regional employment market.”