South Dakota PUC Rejects Summit Carbon Pipeline Permit Again

South Dakota's Public Utilities Commission has denied Summit Carbon Solutions' application to build a carbon dioxide pipeline through the state, citing the project's lack of a viable and clearly defined route. This decision follows recent legislation banning the use of eminent domain for carbon pipelines, a key mechanism Summit had relied on to secure land access. Landowners expressed relief over the decision, having raised concerns about the project's impact on their property and well-being. The commission emphasized that the application was incomplete and did not satisfy the necessary requirements for approval. Summit, which has already invested heavily in the project and secured approvals in other states, has said it will reapply with a reduced scope and continue working with landowners and plant partners. The pipeline, intended to transport CO2 emissions from ethanol plants to underground storage in North Dakota, remains in limbo as the company evaluates its next steps.