Securing the UK’s Energy Future: Supporting DESNZ’s Carbon Capture Ambitions

The U.K. Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is leading an ambitious mission to secure the nation’s energy supply, reduce costs, and achieve net zero. Central to this effort is the Carbon Capture, Usage and Storage (CCUS) program, designed to decarbonize industries, enable low-carbon energy generation, and scale up low-carbon hydrogen production. 

As a key component in of one of the Government’s 5 missions, Make Great Britain a Clean Energy Superpower, the CCUS program carries significant strategic importance. DESNZ has agreed funding of just under £22 billion for CCUS projects over the next 25 years, with the first contracts for carbon capture already signed. 

DESNZ sought a partner capable of providing end-to-end support—from advisory services to project delivery—to support the creation of industrial clusters integrating power, hydrogen, and transport projects with storage infrastructure. “CCUS is a key element of an effective climate strategy,” says Grant Harrison, Head of Programmes and Advisory, Europe. “The UK is at the forefront of its adoption and Jacobs is proud to support the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in managing the program effectively." 

A collaborative partnership for impact 

With support from PA Consulting, an innovation and transformation consultancy, Jacobs is delivering a comprehensive blend of program expertise. Jacobs leads on technical project management, strategy, change management, data, risk, and quality assurance. PA complements this by leveraging its deep knowledge in technology, design, and analytics to ensure the approach to carbon capture is bold, innovative, and practical. 

Our initial focus has been on enhancing CCUS’s program management office (PMO) capabilities and improving its ability to assess and manage scheduling risks. These efforts are laying the groundwork for a resilient and effective program that meets DESNZ’s ambitious goals. 

Together, Jacobs and PA form an integrated team dedicated to advancing one of the U.K. government’s most critical initiatives for achieving net zero. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and impactful delivery on a national scale.