The Summit Carbon Solutions project, a massive undertaking to capture carbon emissions from ethanol plants in multiple states and store them underground in North Dakota, is nearing its final permitting stages in Minnesota.
State agencies have unveiled an environmental impact statement (EIS) and scheduled public hearings for a portion of the pipeline.
The EIS, released by the Minnesota Department of Commerce, concludes that the project would ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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The captured carbon dioxide would offset emissions generated during the pipeline’s construction and operation. However, the report also acknowledges that the project’s overall environmental benefit depends on factors such as the amount of carbon captured and its final use.
While Summit has stated that the captured carbon dioxide will be used for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in North Dakota, the company has not ruled out potential future industrial applications for the pipeline.
The project is intended to help ethanol plants reduce their carbon footprint and qualify for higher fuel prices in low-carbon markets.
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The pipeline would connect to the Green Plains ethanol plant in Fergus Falls, Minnesota.
The EIS suggests the plant could also lower its carbon emissions through various methods, including reducing energy consumption, adopting renewable energy sources, and implementing climate-friendly corn farming practices.
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission will make the final decision on whether to grant Summit a permit, with a decision expected by the end of the year.
