Hyperion Energy Center Issued Air Permit 15 September 2011 For Immediate Release ELK POINT, S.D. – The South Dakota Board of Minerals and Environment today unanimously approved the revised air permit for the Hyperion Energy Center’s oil refinery, representing a major advancement toward putting an average of 4,500 people to work during construction, followed by 1,800 permanent, good-paying jobs. Hyperion’s will be the first new oil refinery in the United States since 1976. “It’s another, crucial step forward,” said Hyperion Vice President Preston Phillips. “While we certainly wish the process went faster, we understand the desire of the Board and experts at DENR to make sure everything is fully and accurately addressed.” DENR is the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which has overseen the lengthy permitting process and drafted the amended permit, which is the core regulatory step for the construction of an oil refinery. The Board also approved granting Hyperion an 18-month extension of the window to begin construction, beginning today (Sept. 15). That gives the company until mid-March of 2013 to start work at the site. During the interim the company and its consultants have continued with planning, engineering and other baseline work. “Our team has been focused on getting the air permit perfected, and now will turn more of our attention to other consents and preparations. That will help us determine just how quickly we can get into construction,” Phillips said. He noted landowners whose property is optioned by Hyperion were previously notified that they can plant their crops. The Hyperion Energy Center will be permitted for a 400,000 barrel-per-day refinery producing ultra-low sulfur gasoline and diesel and an IGCC (Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle) power plant. The center will incorporate green principles in its every day functions and integrate only the most advanced commercially feasible emission control technologies in its operations, as spelled out in the company’s Green Charter. Contact: |
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