Open call for evidence

Evolution of economic regulation for CO2 storage

Summary

We’re seeking views and evidence on economic regulation for CO2 storage to guide policy and support growth within an evolving carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) sector.

This call for evidence closes at

Call for evidence description

To maintain investment and continue development of CO2 stores, we would like to consider whether alternative forms of economic regulation for CO2 storage are appropriate as the market transitions towards a self-sustaining market. This call for evidence investigates whether the Regulated Asset Base (RAB) model of economic regulation for CO2 storage will continue to best meet the needs of users, developers, investors, and consumers as the CCS market matures; whilst also supporting the UK’s Carbon Budgets and net zero.

We are seeking views and evidence on elements of economic regulatory regime for CO2 storage in these key areas:

  1. Economic Regulation and Natural Monopolies 

  2. Competition and Storage Costs  

  3. Investment: Equity and Debt Considerations

Following the call for evidence closing on 31 October 2025, government and Ofgem will assess the responses received and provide a summary. We will use the information gathered to inform policy development and decisions on options for future forms of economic regulation to support continued growth and deployment of offshore CO2 storage.    

We welcome responses from anyone with an interest in the policy area. We envisage that this call for evidence will be of particular interest to: 

  • those intending to use UK CO2 storage services for domestic and international storage of CO2 including CO2 capture facilities and transport providers
  • any consumers whose interests may be impacted
  • current and future CO2 storage developers and infrastructure providers
  • those intending to finance the development of a CO2 storage site including prospective investors or investment bodies
  • trade bodies, academics and think tanks

Read our consultation privacy notice.

Documents

Updates to this page

Published 6 August 2025

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