north dakota
Judge halts methane regulation in five states over states' rights dispute
The Biden administration’s new methane rule was blocked by a federal judge in North Dakota, who ruled that it infringes on state authority in five states.
In short:
- A judge halted a rule by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) targeting methane flaring in North Dakota, Texas, Utah, Montana and Wyoming.
- The states argued the rule overlapped with existing federal and state laws and would harm local industries.
- The ruling noted the states were likely to win the case and that the BLM lacked authority to regulate in this area.
Key quote:
“BLM haphazardly adds more stringent flaring restrictions and bureaucratic hoops the states have to jump through.”
— Judge Daniel Traynor
Why this matters:
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and stricter controls on emissions are key to addressing climate change. However, the ruling reflects ongoing tensions between federal and state regulations, particularly in energy-rich regions.
North Dakota hydrogen hub seeks new partner after losing key project
North Dakota’s Energy and Environmental Research Center is searching for a new partner for its hydrogen hub after Marathon Petroleum withdrew from a major project, citing changing market conditions.
In short:
- Marathon Petroleum pulled out of the Heartland Hydrogen Hub project due to a shift in the fertilizer market and a decline in prices.
- The Energy and Environmental Research Center is negotiating with a new, undisclosed North Dakota energy partner.
- The project must secure a replacement by November to stay on track.
Key quote:
“Shifting from cheap and dirty to cleaner comes with a higher price.”
— Frank Wolak, president and CEO of Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association
Why this matters:
Securing clean hydrogen production is imperative for reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainable agriculture. The project’s success could position North Dakota as a leader in low-carbon energy.
Related EHN coverage:
Governor Burgum backs controversial carbon pipeline in North Dakota
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, a potential Trump running mate, supports a $5.5 billion CO2 pipeline project, highlighting political and environmental tensions.
Richard Lardner and Jack Dura report for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Burgum, aiming to be Trump’s VP, supports the Midwest Carbon Express, a $5.5 billion CO2 pipeline aligned with Biden’s climate goals.
- The pipeline, collecting CO2 from Midwest ethanol plants, faces strong local opposition due to safety and land value concerns.
- Summit Carbon Solutions claims the pipeline will aid the fossil fuel industry and ensure CO2 storage, though critics argue it extends fossil fuel use.
Key quote:
“This has nothing to do with climate change. This has to do with markets.”
— Doug Burgum, Governor of North Dakota
Why this matters:
While the project promises significant environmental benefits by potentially cutting down on CO2 released into the atmosphere, it also faces considerable opposition. Critics argue that the focus should be on reducing emissions at the source rather than relying on carbon capture technology, which they see as a temporary fix rather than a sustainable solution.
Burgum shifts from green policies to pro-oil stance amid Trump's campaign
Doug Burgum, North Dakota’s Republican governor, has transitioned from promoting environmentally friendly policies to supporting the oil and gas industry as he aids Donald Trump’s presidential campaign.
In short:
- Doug Burgum initially aimed for North Dakota to become carbon neutral by 2030, focusing on economic prosperity and energy independence.
- Despite promoting carbon neutrality, Burgum supports the fossil fuel industry, aligning with Trump's pro-oil agenda.
- Burgum’s advocacy includes organizing fundraisers for Trump and endorsing carbon capture projects tied to significant financial interests.
Key quote:
“I don’t think it’s so much that he changed his views as he’s an opportunist.”
— Scott Skokos, the executive director of the Dakota Resource Council
Why this matters:
The shift in Burgum's stance reflects the political influence of the fossil fuel industry and raises concerns about the sincerity of environmental commitments. Supporters argue that Burgum's stance is a necessary adaptation to safeguard jobs and the state's fiscal health. Critics, however, express concern that this pivot undermines the progress made towards sustainable energy and could have long-term environmental repercussions.
North Dakota introduces a limited climate initiative focused on sustainable practices
North Dakota has announced a preliminary climate strategy targeting sustainability, though it notably excludes fossil fuel regulation.
In short:
- North Dakota, the nation's third largest oil producer launched a preliminary climate plan.
- The plan prioritizes tree planting, agricultural improvements and energy efficiency enhancements.
- Critics argue the plan avoids addressing significant emissions from the oil, gas, and coal industries.
- Future phases promise to tackle more challenging projects.
Key quote:
"There’s a big blind spot in that plan. They’re ignoring the fact that they have a highly emitting oil and gas and coal industry."
— Scott Skokos, Dakota Resource Council.
Why this matters:
Transitioning away from fossil fuels can pose economic challenges for regions like North Dakota that are heavily reliant on industries like coal mining or oil extraction.
Fossil fuel extraction and production often disproportionately impact marginalized communities, leading to issues such as air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and adverse health effects.
North Dakota's diverse environmental views revealed in statewide poll
A recent poll in North Dakota shows a wide range of opinions on climate change, carbon capture, and electric vehicles, reflecting the state's varied environmental perspectives.
In short:
- The poll indicates that 43% of North Dakota voters see climate change as a serious problem, with a clear divide along party lines.
- Opinions on carbon capture and storage are mixed, with many residents undecided about its effectiveness in reducing climate change impacts.
- There is low interest in electric vehicles among North Dakotans, with 85% unlikely to purchase one next.
Key quote:
“We found that opinions on environmental issues have become highly politicized."
— Trevor Smith, chief research officer at WPA Intelligence
Why this matters:
The poll results highlight the complexity of environmental issues in North Dakota, a state known for its extreme weather and significant role in energy production. Understanding these diverse viewpoints is crucial for developing effective environmental policies and addressing climate change challenges.
Be sure to read Peter Dykstra’s 2022 piece: Pipeline politics.
North Dakota Environmental Quality to hold listening sessions on reducing pollution
North Dakota received a $3 million grant from the federal Environmental Protection Agency to support pollution-reduction efforts as part of the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program authorized in the Inflation Reduction Act.