EPA Seeks Public Comment on Draft Carbon Storage Permit for Company in Putnam County, Illinois
EPA will host a public availability session on Oct. 15 and a public hearing on Oct. 29
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a public comment period on its intent to issue a permit for Marquis Carbon Injection LLC to inject and store carbon dioxide underground at an injection well in Putnam County, Illinois.
The process of storing carbon underground is known as “carbon sequestration.” Under the proposed plan, Marquis Carbon Injection would inject up to 1.5 million metric tons of carbon per year, over a period of six years. Marquis would be required to monitor the wells—during the six years of proposed injection and for twelve years afterwards—to ensure that the injection wells work properly, the carbon dioxide does not move from its injected location and drinking water sources are protected.
The formation where carbon will be stored is approximately 3,094 feet below ground. Studies of the site show that there is about 963 feet of rock, including a 404-foot-thick confining zone composed of impermeable shale and carbonates, between the deepest underground source of drinking water and the proposed injection location. EPA has concluded that the well materials, intended operation of the well, and underlying geology are appropriate for carbon sequestration and will prevent endangerment of underground drinking water sources.
EPA will host a public availability session on October 15 to engage in conversation and answer questions on the draft permit and a public hearing on October 29 to hear and record public comments. Comments may also be submitted in writing.
Public Availability Session Information:
- When: Wednesday, October 15
- Time: 6 to 8 p.m. CT
- Where: Putnam County High School in the Media Room
400 East Silverspoon Ave.
Granville, Illinois
Public Hearing Information:
- When: Wednesday, October 29
- Time: 6 to 8 p.m. CT
- Where: Putnam County High School in the Auditorium
400 East Silverspoon Ave.
Granville, Illinois
EPA’s public comment period will end on November 3. Comments may be submitted at the public hearing or online here. For more information on EPA’s injection permit process, click here.
To view a copy of the draft permit, click here.