The Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) granted approval this week for the Summit Carbon Solutions base pipeline project in the state.

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw applauded the decision, which follows a public docket open almost three years and the longest public hearing in the history of IUB. “Today’s decision creates monumental opportunities for Iowa farmers faced with falling prices and growing stockpiles,” added Shaw. “Whether you think it’s smart or silly, the world’s largest airlines want to decarbonize their fuel. Carbon capture and sequestration gets Iowa ethanol into that market, potentially providing a generational boost to Iowa’s economy.”

Summit Carbon Solutions is partnering with 57 ethanol plants across five states and has signed voluntary easement agreements with 75% of Iowa landowners along this route. Approval in Iowa follows successful reapplication hearings for the company’s North Dakota pipeline permit in front of the North Dakota Public Service Commission (PSC).

“The momentum will continue as we prepare to file our South Dakota permit application in early July,” said Lee Blank, CEO of Summit Carbon Solutions. “We look forward to engaging with the state throughout this process and are confident in a successful outcome.”

“We hope and expect to see positive news in South Dakota and North Dakota in the near future. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter and so are the prospects for boosting Iowa’s farm economy,” said Shaw.