SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The operator of the long-delayed Keystone XL crude oil pipeline has formally asked South Dakota's utility regulators to recertify the portion of the project that runs through the state.
The Public Utilities Commission must recertify that the conditions for construction of that portion of the pipeline haven't changed since the permits were issued in 2010.
Opponents of the project including the group Dakota Rural Action have vowed to fight the recertification.
The project proposed by TranCanada Corp. would transport oil from Canada through Montana and South Dakota to Nebraska, where it would connect with existing pipelines to carry the oil to refineries along the Gulf Coast.
The company says the project would generate $20 million in taxes per year for the counties through which the pipeline would run through.
