Summit Carbon Solutions secures North Dakota CO2 pipeline permit after setbacks

Summit Carbon Solutions has received the green light from the North Dakota Public Service Commission to develop its carbon dioxide (CO2) pipeline project.

The news follows a tricky time trying to secure a route permit in the US state. In August 2023, the Commission denied Summit’s initial application, raising concerns around geological instability and impact on wildlife, in addition to raising landowner objections.

Specifically, the Commission reported extensive public comments raising concerns about eminent domain, safety, CO2 sequestration, setback distances, underground drain tile damage, property values, and liability insurance.

After the setback, Summit then submitted a revised permit application that it said addressed previously raised concerns. Public hearings also allowed landowners and community members to voice their objections.

Over a year later, it has now been granted a route permit.

With more than 82% of the easements for the North Dakota route secured, Summit says it will continue to work with affected landowners and communities as the project progresses toward construction and operations.

So far, the company has secured a permit in Iowa for its base scope pipeline route and will apply in South Dakota on 19^th November.

Wade Boeshans, Executive Vice-President of Summit Carbon Solutions, said he respects the North Dakota Public Service Commission for their diligence and thoughtful approach in reviewing this project.

He added, “This decision is a testament to North Dakota’s commitment to fostering innovation while working closely with communities and industries. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with stakeholders across the state to deliver long-term benefits for farmers, energy producers, and local communities.”

Summit Carbon Solutions’ carbon capture and storage pipeline will transport CO2 from ethanol production plants in the Midwest US. The initiative involves capturing CO2  emissions from 57 ethanol plants located in Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska.

Read more: POET ethanol facilities to join Summit’s CO2 pipeline project

The captured CO2 will be compressed and transported via a 2,500-mile pipeline network to North Dakota, where it will be permanently stored underground in deep geologic formations.