Iowa Utilities Commission Faces Pushback Over Pipeline Hearing Dates
The Iowa Utilities Commission (IUC) is set to decide on hearing dates for changes to the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline project. The project, which aims to connect biofuel facilities across Iowa and surrounding states, would transport carbon dioxide captured at these plants to be sequestered underground.
Supporters of the project, including corn, ethanol, and labor groups, have requested earlier hearing dates, while opponents argue that the proposed schedule interferes with harvest season, winter holidays, and calving season. Opponents also claim that the hearings on the second phase of the project should not proceed until a lawsuit over the initial permit has concluded.
The IUC has proposed hearing dates for two segments of pipeline, both less than 5 miles in length, with one segment set to be heard on February 23, 2027. Brant Leonard, representing SCS Carbon Transport, anticipates that the hearings will not be lengthy, but landowners have expressed concerns about the timing and location of the hearings.