Wolf Carbon Solutions requests to withdraw current application to build CO2 pipeline running through Central Illinois

PEORIA (25News Now) - Wolf Carbon Solutions is pulling its application to build its CO2 pipeline through Central Illinois - for now.

In a motion filed Monday with the Illinois Commerce Commission, the company said it believes a new, refiled application can address and make moot many, if not all, of the concerns that have been expressed.

In October, ICC Engineer Brett Seagle recommended the state deny the certificate of authority needed by the company to operate the pipeline.

The company had hoped to build a 259.9-mile pipeline starting in Cedar Rapids down to its Mt. Simon Hub in Decatur, where it would be buried deep underground - a project that had been estimated to cost $1 billion and would be funded by the company.

Seagle also addressed the “overwhelmingly negative feedback” from the public on this project, noting they mostly revolve around safety concerns.

Wolf Carbon Solutions intends to update and refile the application early next year.

“Wolf understands and respects the stringent regulatory review process for this project, and we appreciate the diligence of the ICC and its staff. We have made the decision to withdraw our current application, with the intent to refile in early 2024, to address the questions and concerns raised by ICC staff in their recommendation. This voluntary action does not impact our commitment to the project and its stakeholders, or the ongoing regulatory processes, including with the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) and Army Corps of Engineers.”

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