WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee member, participated virtually in the Midwest Energy Summit hosted by the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce today. The senator delivered remarks on bipartisan climate solutions being considered in Congress. 

“Maintaining America’s energy security is critical to protecting our freedom and independence. Rather than pointlessly argue about carbon emissions with fellow leaders, I want to work together to advance energy areas like carbon capture where widespread support exists and North Dakota is ready to lead the way,” said Senator Cramer. “I appreciate the Chamber allowing me to discuss these issues at this important summit today.”

In his remarks, Senator Cramer highlighted bipartisan efforts to support carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology, praised North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum’s pledge to make the state carbon neutral by 2030, and recapped the events he hosted in the state last week with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan.

This year, Senator Cramer has been working to support the development and implementation of CCUS efforts. His recent efforts include: 

  • Reintroducing legislation to encourage carbon capture projects.
  • Urging the Administration to provide an update on the implementation status of legislation Senator Cramer helped introduce and pass which would support carbon utilization and direct air capture research.
  • Working with financial industry leaders to support investments in carbon capture projects.
  • Promoting the potential of carbon capture technologies at EPW hearings.
  • Hosting a briefing in North Dakota on Project Tundra with EPA Administrator Regan.

Other efforts the senator backs which would help address greenhouse gas emissions in a workable way include:

  • Authoring legislation to plug orphaned wells which can create environmental hazards and public health risks.
  • Leading efforts to oppose the Russian Nord Stream 2 pipeline which would increase global emissions.
  • Urging the Administration to allow the Dakota Access Pipeline to continue operating so that oil will not be transported by less environmentally friendly methods like rail or truck.
  • Supporting the United States rejoining the Paris Climate Accord as a way to assert American leadership.