By Andi Anderson
BP has stopped its plan to store carbon emissions underground in Indiana. The oil company had aimed to capture carbon dioxide from its Whiting Refinery and transport it through pipelines to rural counties like Benton, Newton, Jasper, Pulaski, and White.
This initiative was part of a larger goal to produce “blue” hydrogen, which is created using fossil fuels but paired with carbon storage to reduce emissions. BP is also part of the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2), a group working to expand clean hydrogen in the region.
Though the U.S. Department of Energy recently committed $1 billion to the hydrogen hub, BP’s decision casts uncertainty over the project’s future.
The company had tested underground conditions in Benton County through seismic studies. However, local landowners were not supportive. Benton County Commissioner John Gick said the community feared potential side effects like water contamination, crop damage, and even earthquakes. “There are just too many unknowns,” Gick said.
Opposition also came from residents living near the proposed pipeline path. Lisa Vallee of Just Transition Northwest Indiana, who lives near the refinery, noted fears of leaks or explosions that could harm drinking water or public safety.
Environmental groups criticized the project, arguing that carbon capture allows fossil fuel companies to continue polluting instead of cutting emissions.
BP’s withdrawal also raises concerns about the company’s long-term environmental goals. In February, BP cut $5 billion in renewable energy funding.
Vallee expressed disappointment, saying the company is stepping back when clean energy is no longer profitable or subsidized. “They are backing away from that,” she said, referring to BP’s climate and job commitments in the region.
The pause highlights the growing tension between climate promises, economic pressures, and community concerns.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-kn1
Categories: Indiana, General