Why it Matters

Class VI permitting is now central to Natural State Renewables’ Washington strategy after the company hired Rose Group Advisors LLC to focus on underground CO2 storage permits. The move signals heightened regulatory pressure as the company pursues carbon storage alongside sustainable aviation fuel development.

By the Numbers

  • Total lobbying spend: $310,000 across 11 disclosures since September 2023
  • Lobbying firms: AxAdvocacy LLC for general issues, Rose Group for permitting (AxAdvocacy)
  • New lobbyist: Christopher Chad Causey, former chief of staff to Rep. Marion Berry (D-AR)
  • Rose Group experience: $1.12 million representing Catfish Farmers of America since 2017

Broader Context

Natural State Renewables converts surplus forest biomass into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and is expanding into carbon storage permitting. The company’s strategy reflects the complicated regulatory landscape for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). Congressional hearings have debated both advancement and safety concerns about carbon capture projects.

The Agenda

The new registration focuses exclusively on an “Application for a Class VI well permit.” These permits are required for underground carbon dioxide storage and are often managed at the federal and state level. Natural State Renewables previously lobbied on SAF development, tax credits (including 45Q) and environmental permitting through AxAdvocacy; the dual-firm approach implies specialized strategies for distinct regulatory hurdles.

Competitive Landscape

Major energy companies including Chevron, Exxon Mobil, and Occidental Petroleum also lobby on Class VI permitting. Trade groups such as the Advanced Biofuels Association and Renewable Fuels Association advocate for SAF development while the Carbon Utilization Research Council focuses on tax credits like 45Q. This crowded field shows substantial industry investment in carbon management technologies.

Between The Lines

Legislation could help or complicate permitting. The Farm to Fly Act would expand USDA bioenergy programs for SAF, while the Primacy Certainty Act aims to streamline Class VI permit timelines. At the same time, lawmakers like Rep. Sean Casten have raised safety concerns about CCUS operations.

The Bottom Line

Natural State Renewables is taking a targeted lobbying approach to navigate complex federal regulations. Hiring Rose Group Advisors for Class VI permitting underscores the regulatory challenges ahead and the need to balance safety concerns with industry advancement.

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