London: The UK government has decided to provide £100 million in support to restart a biomass-based bioethanol plant in Wilton, Yorkshire, to ensure steady domestic supplies of carbon dioxide (CO2) for key industries, Irish Farmers Journal reported.
The plant, operated by Ensus, produces bioethanol using wheat and also generates CO2 as a byproduct. It will run for an initial three-month period to help maintain supply for sectors including food and drink, healthcare, nuclear power, and water treatment.
According to the Department for Business and Trade, disruptions in fertiliser production across Europe, along with challenging market conditions, have made CO2 imports into the UK less reliable.
The situation has been further affected by rising gas prices linked to the Iran conflict, as well as unplanned maintenance at several CO2 production sites in Europe, increasing the risk of shortages.
Officials said the government has been in discussions with Ensus since September to keep the plant ready for use, allowing a quick restart when needed. The financial support will cover the cost of maintaining the facility in standby mode and bringing it back into operation.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the move would help protect essential supply chains and support industries that rely on CO2, while also safeguarding jobs and local communities.
Ensus UK Chair Grant Pearson welcomed the decision, saying it would benefit workers and the wider supply chain, strengthen the manufacturing sector in Teesside, and improve the country’s ability to manage CO2 supply.
