Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, representing West Virginia and serving as the Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, recently conducted a hearing focused on carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS) technologies. The session also examined the implementation of the Utilizing Significant Emissions with Innovative Technologies Act (USE IT Act), which was enacted in December 2020.

In her remarks, Chairman Capito emphasized bipartisan support for advancing CCUS technology. She stressed the necessity for faster implementation of the USE IT Act to ensure timely project approvals and highlighted the role of CCUS in maintaining a reliable electric grid.

Capito stated, “I’m excited to start this year with a hearing on a bipartisan topic that Ranking Member Whitehouse and I have worked together on over the years to address.” She further noted efforts underway in West Virginia related to CCUS technologies. Projects include research by West Virginia University on direct air capture technologies and support from the Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory.

The Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub, known as ARCH2, is another initiative where West Virginia partners are deploying CCUS technologies. These projects aim to position West Virginia as an energy leader while reducing emissions.

However, Capito pointed out challenges in implementing the USE IT Act due to delays by federal agencies like the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and Department of Energy in setting up necessary task forces. “Despite receiving additional help and funding with the process,” she said, "the Biden administration only approved two Class VI projects."

Chairman Capito concluded by expressing hope that EPA Administrator Zeldin would prioritize reducing application backlogs and support states seeking primacy in permitting processes. She underscored CCUS's potential to enhance electric grid reliability amidst rising energy consumption.

“I look forward to our discussion today on this important topic,” Capito remarked, signaling continued bipartisan efforts towards advancing CCUS deployment.