Heirloom, a leading provider of Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology, has revealed a significant investment in Louisiana. This initiative will see the establishment of two cutting-edge DAC facilities in the northwestern region of the state, situated at the Port of Caddo-Bossier in Shreveport. Together, these facilities will have the capacity to eliminate approximately 320 thousand tonnes of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) annually. Furthermore, this expansion will generate roughly a 1,000 new jobs in the clean energy sector, bolstering the Gulf Coast's position as a frontrunner in DAC innovation and propelling the United States forward in achieving net-zero emission objectives.

Construction of the initial facility is scheduled to commence later this year, with operations slated to begin in 2026. Once operational, this facility will have the capacity to eliminate approximately 17,000 tonnes of CO2 on an annual basis.

The second facility is currently in the design phase as part of Project Cypress, which is managed by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) and is eligible for up to USD 600 million in funding. This extends the reach of Project Cypress beyond Southwest Louisiana, where Climeworks is constructing its facility in Calcasieu Parish. By choosing Northwest Louisiana for both facilities, Heirloom anticipates cost savings and operational efficiencies while expanding job creation opportunities and workforce training programs in the region.

Heirloom's involvement in Project Cypress aims to remove approximately 300,000 tonnes of CO2 annually. The initial phase, projected to be operational by 2027, will have a capacity to remove 100 thousand tonnes of CO2 per year. Subsequent phases, contingent upon additional funding, program reviews, and negotiations, could triple the capture capacity.

The combined DAC facilities in Caddo Parish are forecasted to generate at least 1,000 construction jobs and over 80 permanent positions, with potential for more as the project reaches full capacity. To facilitate this economic growth, the State of Louisiana is offering $3 million in performance-based grants, with a potential for an additional $7 million based on meeting mutually agreed upon capital expenditure and payroll targets.

Heirloom, in collaboration with Project Cypress partners, is initiating a new community benefits planning process in Northwest Louisiana, focusing on investment in the Caddo-Bossier region. This includes establishing a local Community Engagement Council to gather community input and feedback at every stage of project development.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry heralds the state's potential as a leader in carbon dioxide storage, welcoming Heirloom's expansion into the Port of Caddo-Bossier. This move promises increased growth and job opportunities while showcasing Louisiana's commitment to shaping the nation's energy landscape. Governor Landry underscores the significance of the Project Cypress Direct Air Capture Hub's statewide expansion, portraying Louisiana as a hub of cutting-edge technology and innovation. This initiative harnesses the state's skilled workforce and underscores its pivotal role in driving forward the energy economy with forward-thinking solutions.