North Dakota Officials Approve Part of $8 Billion Carbon Dioxide Pipeline Plan
Construction of the pipeline could begin next year
State regulators in North Dakota have approved the construction of a portion of a \$8 billion carbon dioxide pipeline that would transport the gas from ethanol plants to North Dakota oil fields for use in enhanced oil recovery. The project remains under review in other states, and its completion depends on whether developers can secure additional financing and permits.
Project Overview
The pipeline, known as the Heartland Greenway project, is expected to cost \$8 billion and would be the world's largest carbon capture and storage project. It would transport carbon dioxide from ethanol plants in the Midwest to oil fields in North Dakota.
The pipeline is being developed by a consortium of companies, including Summit Carbon Solutions, Denbury Resources, and Valero Energy. The companies say the pipeline would capture and store 12 million tons of carbon dioxide per year, which is equivalent to taking 2.6 million cars off the road.
The Next Steps
The North Dakota Public Service Commission approved the construction of the pipeline in the state on December 15th, 2022. The commission still needs to approve the pipeline's route and issue a permit for its construction.
The pipeline is also under review in South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, and Illinois. The company hopes to begin construction on the pipeline next year and have it operational by 2025.
The Pros
Supporters of the pipeline say it would create jobs, boost the economy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The pipeline would create an estimated 1,000 jobs during construction and 100 permanent jobs once it is operational.
The Cons
Opponents of the pipeline say it is too expensive, would not reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and would damage the environment. The pipeline would cross over 1,000 miles of land, and opponents say it would disrupt agriculture and damage wildlife habitat.
The Future
The future of the Heartland Greenway project is uncertain. The project still needs to secure additional financing and permits before construction can begin. The project is also facing legal challenges from opponents.
If the project is completed, it would be a major step forward in the fight against climate change. However, the project is also facing significant challenges, and its future is uncertain.
