LIBERTY starts work on ‘flagship’ net-zero project

A steel manufacturer has begun work on a “transformational” energy project in Hartlepool.

LIBERTY Steel UK’s Hartlepool-based pipes division is producing 105km of offshore pipelines for the bp-led Net Zero Teesside project, which officials say will exemplify how “the industries of the future actually benefit real people” by helping “drive forward regeneration” and securing “good quality jobs for local people”.

The pipelines will transport captured CO2 to the Endurance carbon storage site facility 1000 metres beneath the North Sea.

Manufacturing is expected to continue until late 2025, with the contract forming one of eight engineering, procurement and construction packages awarded by NEP/NZT Power, worth an estimated £4 billion. 

The work has also led to the creation of 30 new jobs at the Hartlepool facility.

Jeff Kabel, chief transformation officer at LIBERTY Steel, said: “Following months of meticulous planning, mill preparation, recruitment and training, LIBERTY Pipes Hartlepool is proud to announce the start of manufacturing for the NEP and NZT Power projects. 

“It is flagship project and hopefully one of many similar projects in the UK, and internationally, that the business hopes to be involved in. 

“LIBERTY Pipes Hartlepool has an extensive track record in the North Sea and now, in line with our long-term strategy, we are pleased to extend our involvement in support of new Energy Transition infrastructure. 

“We look forward to delivering the project safely and to the satisfaction of our client.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen, who visited staff at the Hartlepool facility, on March 6, added: “This contract is a perfect demonstration of our plan across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool to use big international investment to secure good quality jobs for local people.

“The NZT project on Teesworks will provide thousands of local jobs – and has laid down a marker to the nation, and the world, on how to make sure the industries of the future actually benefit real people.

“Seeing LIBERTY Pipes start production on this major new contract is excellent and cements our position as a runaway leader in these industries.

“This contract – alongside the many others – will secure skilled jobs, create more in the town and help us drive forward the regeneration of the area.”

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