The gas will be siphoned off from a new coal-fired power station and stored in undersea rock formations.

Climate scientists believe CCS has a key role to play in reducing future CO2 emissions.

Building large-scale demonstration plants that capture carbon from coal or gas and secure it in permanent storage sites has not been easy.

In 2012, the European Union was unable to find a single project to fund when it attempted to spur the development of the technology.

Undeterred, the EU Commission again asked governments to submit written proposals on CCS and, according to officials, the UK has nominated the White Rose project.

As it is the only eligible plan to have been put forward, it is expected that a grant of 300m euros will now be forthcoming in June.

"The UK has confirmed the White Rose CCS project," said an EU spokesman.

"The project will hence be considered for an award expected by mid-2014. If awarded, this project could boost the local economy and create jobs when they are most needed."

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Source: BBC news Science & Environment, 17 April by Matt McGrath