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Glass bottle manufacturer and bottler Encirc has unveiled its 2025 decarbonisation plan that uses hydrogen-powered furnaces, leading to the creation of 200 jobs in Cheshire.

In order to meet its commitment, Encirc plans to use hydrogen in its furnaces to create billions of ultra-low carbon glass bottles.

To ensure the availability of hydrogen, the Cheshire-based manufacturer plans to expand its Elton facility and create at least 200 jobs – to join more than 1,00 current employees at the site.

The company will use the hydrogen supply from the proposed HyNet North West project in its furnaces to the lead the decarbonisation of glass packaging.

HyNet North West is a hydrogen and carbon capture and storage project that aims to unlock a low carbon economy and put the region at the forefront of the UK’s drive to net zero. According to Encirc, the project has the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 10 million tonnes every year by 2030.

The news comes after Enrcirc – alongside Glass Future – successfully used a biofuel-powered furnace and 100% recycled glass to reduce the carbon footprint of its bottles by up to 90%. Encric successfully trialled its low carbon glass bottles with Carlsberg, Molson Coors and Diageo.

After touring the Elton factory and learning more about how Encirc could take advantage of a new supply of hydrogen, Anne-Marie Trevelyan – the UK’s Minister of State for Business, Energy and Clean Growth – said: “I’m delighted Encirc has announced its ambition to create the first ultra-low carbon glass by 2025 as part of the HyNet North West project.

“It is a sign our plan for jobs is working and will create not only over 200 jobs on the ground in Chester but a skills base fit for the future. Working together with government and ahead of COP26 in Glasgow, I’m delighted to see British industries are building back greener, meaning firms can play their part in creating jobs and meeting our ambitious climate commitments.”

Adrian Curry, Encirc managing director, added: “It is vital that glass packaging decarbonises to meet our zero-emission future. Glass already has so many incredible environmental and health benefits over other materials, but the carbon intensity of our furnaces is a key challenge we need to address. We are delighted to be leading the charge, creating the world’s most sustainable glass bottles."