Organization raises concerns about local carbon capture plans

Experts gathered at a public forum in Weirton to address concerns surrounding carbon capture and sequestration in the Upper Ohio Valley. Leah Harper of the FreshWater Accountability Project discussed the technology's potential risks, including impacts on local water sources. Randi Pokladnik, a retired environmental scientist, warned that current methods lack guarantees for safe underground storage. Tenaska has established test wells and plans to expand operations in West Virginia and Ohio, raising local apprehensions. Business owner Ted Arneault pointed out that permits for these projects should be publicly accessible.

Hancock County Commissioner Tommy Ogden shared that some state officials harbor private doubts about carbon capture due to its revenue implications. Steven G. Jansto raised concerns about pipeline integrity, suggesting existing materials may corrode faster when transporting captured carbon. The forum highlighted the need for transparency and public awareness regarding carbon capture's environmental risks.