Latest carbon capture pipeline permit denied

South Dakotas Public Utility Commission (PUC) voted 2-1 this past week to deny Summit Carbon Solutions application for a route permit for its $8.9 billion carbon capture pipeline.
Commissioner Kristie Fiegen said the proposal was not ready to go forward and lacked the necessary form and content.
The decision followed a March state ban on eminent domain for carbon capture pipelines, which commissioners agreed complicated Summits planned route. Landowners, including many in Moody County, have been among the most vocal opponents, pushing for eminent domain reform and leading the charge against the pipeline.
While less vocal, some local supporters in the agricultural and ethanol industries see potential in the technology behind the pipeline, believing it could provide significant opportunities for those sectors. The pipeline would reportedly transport carbon emissions from ethanol plants in several Midwest states to underground storage in North Dakota.
Summit stated it plans to refile with a reduced route to address landowner concerns.
We remain committed to South Dakota, a company official stated, warning that without the project, both the ethanol industry and local farmers could suffer.
Nearly 40% of the nations corn is used to make ethanol, with much of it grown right here in South Dakota and throughout the Midwest. Summit states its pipeline will lower the carbon emissions released through ethanol production and make it more competitive as a sustainable product.