The Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA) has recommended the allocation of substantial state funds to two major energy projects as part of the Energy Matching Funds (EMF) program, Big Foot 99 Radio reports.
Among the recipients is H.F. Sinclair, whose Parco Refinery in Carbon County could receive $4.7 million to upgrade and expand its gasoline-production unit.
Additionally, the WEA has suggested that nearly $7.8 million be granted to Rocky Mountain Power and one of its engineering partners. This funding would support the design and implementation of carbon-capture technology at coal-fired power plants, aligning with a legislative mandate promoted by Governor Mark Gordon.
The EMF program, established by the Wyoming Legislature, is designed to encourage innovation in energy projects. Initially funded with $100 million in 2022 and an additional $50 million in 2023, the program targets a wide range of energy initiatives, from hydropower to wind energy.
However, the program has faced criticism. Environmental groups, such as the Sierra Club, have raised concerns over taxpayer funding being used for carbon-capture technology, especially when companies involved, like PacificCorp (parent company of Rocky Mountain Power), are backed by wealthy investors. On the other side of the political spectrum, the conservative Wyoming Freedom Caucus has questioned the necessity of the fund, attempting unsuccessfully to defund it as wasteful.
Governor Gordon has already approved $67.5 million in grants through the Energy Matching Funds program.
