Tensions grow after research in England finds there may not be enough water for planned carbon capture and hydrogen projects
Revealed: Europe’s water reserves drying up due to climate breakdown
Tensions are growing between the government, the water sector and its regulators over the management of England’s water supplies, as the Environment Agency warns of a potential widespread drought next year.
Research commissioned by a water retailer has found water scarcity could hamper the UK’s ability to reach its net zero targets, and that industrial growth could push some areas of the country into water shortages.
The government has a legally binding target to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and has committed to a clean power system by 2030 with at least 95% of electricity generated from low-carbon sources, but the study concludes there will not be enough water available to support all planned carbon capture and hydrogen projects.
