News Summary
Governor Jeff Landry has signed an executive order halting new applications for carbon capture injection wells in Louisiana. This order addresses public concerns over safety and community involvement in carbon capture projects. The state will focus on reviewing existing applications while establishing clear guidelines for local officials and residents. The order has drawn mixed reactions, with some advocating for increased community participation in regulatory processes. The moratorium will remain until better safety standards are established.
Louisiana – Governor Jeff Landry has signed an executive order that puts a halt to new applications for carbon capture injection wells in the state. The order, issued on Wednesday, addresses growing public concern from residents living near proposed carbon capture sites who have voiced complaints about the projects. The executive order aims to improve community involvement by requiring companies to engage more with local residents and government officials during the planning and execution phases of carbon capture initiatives.
With this pause, the Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy will focus on reviewing 33 existing permit applications. Governor Landry seeks to establish clear guidelines and expectations for local officials and residents regarding carbon capture and storage. The executive order mandates adherence to various safety protocols, including well control procedures, emergency operation plans, and data monitoring requirements.
The state Department of Conservation has prioritized six carbon capture projects from a larger pool of over 30 currently in the regulatory pipeline. The selection was guided by Tyler Gray, the previous energy secretary, and is being followed through by the new energy secretary, Dustin Davidson. The chosen projects are noted for their economic viability and lower risk of potential carbon dioxide leaks.
These six projects have been under technical review since the spring of 2024 and are at the final stage before proceeding to public hearings and receiving final considerations. Among the prioritized initiatives is CapturePoint Solutions’ CENLA Hub, which proposes to create more than 55 permanent jobs and generate 500 construction jobs, with expected investments reaching $5 billion. Collectively, these projects could stimulate approximately $17 billion in new industrial ventures and carbon capture technology, potentially leading to 800 new full-time jobs.
However, the executive order has not been without controversy. Concerns have emerged regarding its potential to delay the development of carbon capture projects in Louisiana, putting the state at a disadvantage compared to neighboring states like Texas. Local communities and industry leaders are advocating for the importance of public participation in the regulatory processes relating to carbon capture.
Additional challenges regarding carbon capture initiatives in Louisiana stem from significant controversies surrounding projects proposed by companies such as Air Products in Lake Maurepas, as well as those by Exxon and Occidental, which were not included in the priority list. Critics from local communities have raised issues regarding land rights and the risk of leaks that could affect underground aquifers.
The moratorium enacted by Governor Landry will remain in place until clearer safety and permitting standards are established. The administration aims to enhance transparency in the permitting process and may consider hosting public meetings to provide opportunities for community feedback. Previously, the state gained the authority to oversee final approvals for carbon capture projects, which shifted from federal oversight previously managed by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2024.
Despite calls for increased local authority and engagement in plans for carbon capture regulatory measures, industry representatives have expressed apprehension over the uncertainty created by the moratorium. Concerns highlight the importance of balancing public worries about safety and environmental impacts with the economic opportunities that carbon capture technology promises for the state.
As the administration evaluates its approach following several unsuccessful legislative proposals to restrict carbon capture, it remains focused on ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of public transparency and community safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The Advocate: Louisiana Will Focus on 6 Carbon Capture Projects First
- KALB: Gov. Landry Signs Executive Order on Carbon Capture Storage Limits
- WWLTV: Gov. Landry Signs Order Pausing Future Carbon Capture Projects
- WBRZ: Business Leaders Criticize Landry Moratorium on Carbon Capture Projects
- The Advocate: Gov. Landry Declares Halt on New Carbon Capture Applications
- Wikipedia: Carbon Capture and Storage
- Google Search: Carbon Capture Technology
- Google Scholar: Carbon Capture Regulations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Carbon Capture
- Google News: Carbon Capture Projects Louisiana
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
