Des Moines: Iowa Public Utilities Commission Approves Pipeline Easement

The Iowa Public Utilities Commission has granted a conditional approval for a pipeline easement in Hardin County, Iowa. The easement will allow SCS Carbon Transport LLC to construct and operate a carbon dioxide pipeline across the property.

Key Takeaways:

  • The pipeline easement covers a total area of 3.06 acres, including a 1.53-acre pipeline easement area and a 1.53-acre temporary construction easement area.
  • The pipeline is expected to be 6 inches in nominal diameter and will transport carbon dioxide and its naturally occurring constituents and associated substances.
  • The easement grants SCS the right to install temporary or permanent gates at necessary locations for ingress and egress.
  • Landowner has the right to approve SCS's plans for permanent surface changes to the pipeline easement area after construction.
  • SCS is required to pay commercially reasonable costs and indemnify and hold Landowner harmless for any loss, damage, claim, or action resulting from its use of the easements.
  • The easement includes 11 rights granted to SCS, including the right to survey, stage, and facilitate initial construction, operation, and maintenance of the pipeline facilities.
  • The temporary construction easement is granted for a period of 24 months after construction commences.

Statistics:

  • Pipeline easement area: 1.53 acres
  • Temporary construction easement area: 1.53 acres
  • Total easement area: 3.06 acres
  • Pipeline diameter: 6 inches (nominal)
  • Easement duration: 24 months (temporary construction)
  • Number of rights granted to SCS: 11

Sources:

  • Exhibit H-HD-011 (IA-HD-502-052.500)
  • Iowa Public Utilities Commission - Docket No.: HLP-2024-0002 (filed on May 23, 2025)