On Sept. 11, the pipeline permit application for Summit Carbon Solutions was denied by the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (PUC). SCS respects the decision, plans to refile, and is reinforcing its commitment to South Dakotans and the state’s ethanol and sustainable-aviation-fuel industries.  

Two-and-a-half years ago, SCS announced the creation of this carbon-capture and storage project, and a year later, in February 2022, SCS filed an application with the South Dakota PUC. In the 19 months that followed, SCS has engaged with landowners and local governments throughout the path of the project. That commitment has been borne out through the 73 percent of landowners who have signed voluntary easements and the nine biorefineries that have partnered with SCS, including Gevo, the first billion-dollar economic investment in South Dakota.  

Some South Dakota counties passed ordinances that require SCS to refine its path through South Dakota. Today, the PUC determined that these ordinances prohibit the PUC from granting a permit right now, but that SCS can reapply after it refines its proposal.  

SCS intends to do just that, to refine its proposal and reapply for a permit in a timely manner. SCS remains committed to the South Dakota ethanol industry and the growth of South Dakota’s energy industry. 

“We respect this initial ruling and remain committed to South Dakota and deeply appreciative of the overwhelming support we have received from landowners and community members,” said Lee Blank, Summit Carbon Solutions CEO. “We are hopeful that through collaborative engagement with these counties we can forge a path forward to benefit South Dakota and its citizens.”