NSTA Receives Bids for Over 2 Million Acres in UK Carbon Storage Licensing Round

The North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) has received applications for over 2 million acres of seabed in the UK's second carbon storage licensing round, which closed on March 24. This initiative aims to expand carbon storage capacity in the UK, building on previous permits and projects such as Endurance and HyNet, both targeting first injection in 2028. The UK government anticipates that these projects will create 4,000 direct jobs in the North West and North East and support 50,000 jobs nationwide.

Published Mar 25, 2026

The NSTA has closed its second carbon storage licensing round, receiving bids for more than 2 million acres of seabed. The round, launched in December 2025, aims to enhance the UK's carbon storage capabilities following consultations with The Crown Estate and other stakeholders.

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Existing projects Endurance and HyNet, both targeting first injection in 2028, have already received permits. The UK government projects that these initiatives will create 4,000 jobs in the North West and North East and support a total of 50,000 jobs across the country. The NSTA will evaluate the applications before awarding licenses.