Summit Carbon Solutions Takes Another Step Towards Midwest Carbon Express Pipeline

Summit Carbon Solutions is making a second attempt to secure a permit for its carbon pipeline project, known as the Midwest Carbon Express, in South Dakota.

The Iowa-based company plans to build an $8 billion pipeline network spanning 2,500 miles across five Midwestern states: Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

This ambitious project aims to support carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies while fostering sustainable growth for the agricultural and energy sectors.

"This project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to strengthen South Dakota’s agricultural future while advancing energy innovation," said LEE BLANK, CEO of Summit Carbon Solutions.

"By working hand-in-hand with landowners and communities, we’ve developed a project that balances progress with respect for those directly involved. Together, we’re creating a pathway to new markets and lasting economic growth for generations to come."

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The Scope of the Pipeline Network

The Midwest Carbon Express would connect to 57 ethanol plants across the five states, including 14 in South Dakota.

Summit Carbon’s network would also link to Gevo’s planned sustainable aviation fuel plant, a billion-dollar investment in Colorado.

In South Dakota alone, the pipeline would cover 700 miles, cutting through key eastern counties.

Captured carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from these ethanol plants would be pressurized into liquid form and transported to a sequestration site in North Dakota.

There, the CO₂ would be stored underground, preventing it from reentering the atmosphere as a greenhouse gas. This innovative approach aligns with growing efforts to reduce carbon emissions and create cleaner energy solutions.

Partnerships Driving Carbon Solutions

Summit Carbon has partnered with major industry players like Poet, the world’s largest bioethanol producer.

Ethanol plants collaborating with Summit Carbon will benefit from federal tax incentives for reducing the carbon intensity of their biofuels.

These incentives, coupled with the pipeline’s infrastructure, create a unique opportunity for ethanol producers to enhance their sustainability efforts.

The company’s latest application comes with significant updates to address prior concerns, including new routes in counties where opposition was strongest.

"We’ve spent more than a year working one-on-one with landowners to find mutually agreeable solutions," Summit Carbon noted in its press release.

Summit Carbon Solutions reapplies for pipeline permits

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Regulatory Hurdles and Local Opposition

Summit Carbon’s first application, filed in 2022, was denied by the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) in 2023. At the time, setbacks were primarily due to local ordinances that restricted pipeline routes near residential areas.

Summit’s argument that federal regulations should supersede these local restrictions was ultimately abandoned after significant pushback.

However, the company has since made progress in other states. The North Dakota Public Service Commission recently approved its route permit, reversing a previous denial.

Similarly, the Iowa Utilities Commission granted Summit Carbon a construction permit in August, contingent upon obtaining a permit in South Dakota.

These developments underscore the importance of South Dakota’s approval for the project’s overall success.

Challenges and Future Plans

Despite regulatory advancements, Summit Carbon faces ongoing challenges.

In 2024, South Dakota voters rejected a proposed law that would have allowed pipeline developers to override local restrictions, complicating efforts to streamline construction in the state.

These hurdles highlight the delicate balance between advancing energy projects and respecting local community concerns.

Summit Carbon aims to begin construction of the pipeline in early 2026, with operations slated to start in 2027.

The company remains optimistic about overcoming local opposition and securing the necessary permits to move forward.

A Transformative Project for the Region

If approved, the Midwest Carbon Express would be the largest carbon capture and storage project of its kind in the United States.

The initiative promises to drive economic growth, create jobs, and position the Midwest as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.

"Carbon capture, use, and storage is essential to protecting our ability to provide reliable, baseload power in South Dakota while reducing emissions," said SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, ranking member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.

Summit Carbon’s perseverance demonstrates its commitment to innovation and collaboration with local stakeholders.

The project has the potential to transform how CO₂ emissions are managed and set a precedent for future energy projects in the U.S.