Oregon Public Broadcasting

An experiment to demonstrate whether a global warming gas could be captured and locked up forever deep underground in the mid-Columbia is catching flak from an unexpected quarter. Critics include people who want something done about climate change.  Correspondent Tom Banse reports.

Pacific Northwest National Lab researchers propose to inject carbon dioxide 3,500 feet beneath ancient lava flows near Wallula, Washington.  Theoretically, the gas will react with a basalt rock layer there and mineralize.

However, opponents have been able to slow down permitting.  They worry a successful experiment could make it easier for new coal-fired power plants to be built.

The National Lab’s Pete McGrail is getting frustrated.

Pete McGrail: “It really is an attempt to quash the pursuit of knowledge.”

But opponent Dan Clark, a Walla Walla lawyer, says what’s going on here is a difference of visions.

One has a future with fossil fuel power production and one moves away from that.  The two men engaged in an impromptu debate in front of the Northwest Power Planning Council.

Online:

Pacific Northwest National Lab

Coal Plant Working Group