In a unanimous decision on Wednesday, the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission denied Navigator’s application to construct the Heartland Greenway CO2 pipeline in South Dakota.
Chairperson Kristie Fiegen cited concerns about a lack of proof on various issues, including the plume model/rupture model and the project’s economic and environmental impact.
Other commissioners echoed worries about safety, environmental risks, and landowners’ welfare, emphasizing that Navigator is not a utility company.
While Navigator has the option to appeal or reapply, the commissioners will withhold further comments until the docket is officially closed, which could take months.