Wolf Carbon Solutions has scrapped plans for a 95-mile carbon capture pipeline across eastern Iowa, according to a recent filing with the Iowa Utilities Board.

The company had intended to capture carbon dioxide emissions from Archer Daniels Midland Co. ethanol plants in Cedar Rapids and Clinton, liquefy the gas, and transport it to Illinois for underground storage.

While Wolf didn't specify whether it would reapply for a permit, the company said in its filing that it would reassess its plans once there's "more certainty." 

In contrast, Summit Carbon Solutions is moving forward with its $8 billion carbon capture pipeline project across Iowa and four other states. 

The company, which now includes ethanol producers who had previously partnered with Navigator CO2 Ventures, secured regulatory approval for its Iowa pipeline in June and received the green light from North Dakota regulators last month.

These pipeline projects have faced significant opposition from landowners, farmers, and other groups concerned about pipeline safety, potential damage to underground drainage systems, and the use of eminent domain to acquire pipeline easements. 

While Summit obtained eminent domain powers in Iowa, Wolf had previously said it would build the pipeline without resorting to such measures.

Opponents of the projects celebrated Wolf's decision to withdraw its petition, calling it a victory for landowners and communities who have actively resisted the project's potential risks.

Some speculate that Wolf's withdrawal may be tied to issues experienced by ADM at its sequestration site near Decatur, Illinois. Last year, Wolf withdrew its Illinois application but maintained its commitment to the project. 

However, in September, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency accused ADM of inadequate monitoring at the sequestration site after carbon fluid migrated to an unauthorized zone.

While the EPA said the movement posed no immediate threat to drinking water sources, it proposed corrective actions for ADM to ensure future compliance. 

Meanwhile, a final order from the EPA has yet to be issued.