Ethanol Enterprises Seek Green Light for Carbon Sequestration Initiatives in Kansas

In the state of Kansas, two prominent U.S. ethanol companies, PureField Ingredients and Pratt Energy, are leading the charge in spearheading innovative carbon sequestration projects. These initiatives, however, are contingent upon securing approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Specifically tailored to ethanol plants located in central Kansas, these proposed carbon sequestration endeavors await the green light from the U.S. EPA to move ahead.

The emergence of these ventures mirrors a broader trend observed across the nation among corn ethanol producers. Amidst the proliferation of biofuels boasting reduced carbon footprints, these ethanol producers are actively seeking federal tax incentives to sustain their competitiveness. While some view this trend as a proactive step towards combating climate change, it encounters resistance from select environmental advocacy groups.

Kansas is endowed with abundant geological resources that make it an ideal candidate for the long-term storage of carbon dioxide (CO2). Recognizing this potential, the Kansas Geological Survey has devised plans to conduct a meticulous county-by-county analysis aimed at pinpointing suitable areas for carbon sequestration.

PureField Ingredients, headquartered in Russell, Kansas, has taken proactive measures by submitting an application to drill a well situated six miles away from its facility. The objective is to capture approximately 150,000 metric tons of carbon annually. Similarly, Pratt Energy, based in Pratt, Kansas, has thrown its hat into the ring by filing an application for the construction of a carbon sequestration well. However, detailed specifics regarding the project remain undisclosed at present.

Regarding the procedural timelines, the EPA anticipates a rigorous two-year permitting process. Pratt Energy initiated its application process towards the end of the previous year, while PureField Ingredients embarked on its endeavor nearly a year ago. Presently, PureField Ingredients awaits a comprehensive technical evaluation, which is expected to extend into the forthcoming spring season.

Should the EPA proceed with the issuance of permits, the agency is poised to actively solicit input and feedback from the public. This engagement will be facilitated through the dissemination of draft publications and the organization of public hearings.

Pratt Energy, LLC manages a fuel ethanol production facility situated in Pratt, Kansas, approximately seventy miles west of Wichita. Initially constructed by Lurgi, Inc., the plant has undergone modifications to emulate the operational standards of its counterpart facility in Pixley, California, which is owned and managed by Calgren Renewable Fuels. Both facilities integrate an innovative and energy-efficient design developed by Thermal Kinetics Inc. Notably, these plants boast an industry-leading design that significantly reduces energy consumption, thereby contributing to a lower carbon footprint compared to other grain-based ethanol plants.

On the other hand, PureField Ingredients stands out as the most trusted and dependable brand of wheat protein in the United States. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality and consistency, PureField Ingredients supplies its products directly to prominent consumer food and pet food companies. Additionally, the company collaborates with reputable national distribution partners to ensure widespread accessibility of its products across the market.