South Dakota voters approve first major refinery in the U.S. since 1976

Voters in Union County, South Dakota, have approved an $8 billion proposal by Dallas-based Hyperion Resources, Inc., to build the first major refinery in the United States in over 30 years. The project will reportedly create 4,500 construction jobs and 1,800 permanent jobs. Voters on June 3 approved the project by a 58% to 42% margin.

The Hyperion Energy Center will produce 400,000 barrels per day of ultralow sulfur gasoline and diesel. Hyperion says the facility will incorporate green principles and integrate the most advanced commercially feasible emission control technologies in its operations, as spelled out in the company*s Green Charter.

"We are committed to being good corporate citizens and we look forward to working with community leaders and being involved in this region in a positive manner for a long time to come,* said Project Executive Preston Phillips.

The project still faces winning approval of its air quality permit. There has been vigorous opposition by those concerned about quality of life issues.