US-headed Summit Carbon Solutions (SCS), the largest global biogenic carbon capture and storage project developer, has announced the submission of its permit application to the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (SDPUC), marking a major milestone in its effort to develop a transformative infrastructure project that benefits landowners, agriculture, and communities statewide.
This filing reflects extensive engagement with South Dakotans to create a pipeline route shaped by direct stakeholder feedback, supporting agriculture and advancing energy innovation.
The submittal follows a North Dakota Route Permit recently granted to SCS by the North Dakota Public Service Commission (NDPSC).
This project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to strengthen South Dakota’s agricultural future while advancing energy innovation. 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, said Lee Blank, CEO of Summit Carbon Solutions.
Transport carbon dioxide from ethanol plants
The 2,500-mile pipeline, including 700 miles in South Dakota, will transport carbon dioxide (CO2) from 57 ethanol plants across five states, including 14 in South Dakota and Gevo’s planned sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) plant near Lake Preston.
The majority of the CO2 volume will be safely and permanently stored in North Dakota via Class VI injection wells.
However, excess capacity will be available to support next-generation fuels like e-SAF and green methanol, along with uses in water treatment, food processing, and dry ice production, driving regional economic growth.
To lead in domestic energy production and support local farmers, we should advance critical infrastructure like the Summit pipeline—driving economic growth and strengthening rural communities around Lake Preston. This pipeline will help unleash homegrown energy solutions and benefit hardworking Americans, said Dr Patrick Gruber, CEO of Gevo.
The SCS application also highlights major reroutes in Spink, Brown, McPherson, and Lincoln Counties, along with numerous micro-adjustments, resulting from more than a year of one-on-one work with landowners to find mutually agreeable solutions.
With the submission of this application, we’re one step closer to realizing tremendous opportunities for South Dakota’s biofuels industry, as well as for our farmers and communities. This milestone moves us forward in strengthening our agricultural economy, enhancing local markets, and positioning South Dakota as a leader in low-carbon energy solutions for years to come, said Jeff Lautt, President and COO at POET.
Summit Carbon Solutions plans to begin construction in early 2026, with operations starting in 2027.
The company remains “committed to working collaboratively with North and South Dakota landowners and communities to develop a project that strengthens the state’s agricultural legacy while paving the way for energy innovation.”
