Refinery builder aims to sidestep panel

BISMARCK, N.D. — The company planning an oil refinery near Theodore Roosevelt National Park in western North Dakota is asking state regulators to dismiss a complaint filed by environmental groups over the site.

Meridian Energy Group made its request to the Public Service Commission on Wednesday, arguing that the threemember panel has no authority under state law to wade into the dispute over the Davis Refinery.

The company’s plan to build the $800 million plant 3 miles from the park has prompted opposition by environmental groups and others who fear pollution from the refinery will mar the park’s scenery and erode air quality.

Meridian maintains that the plant will have modern technology and will be “the cleanest refinery on the planet.” Supporters say it will boost the area’s economy.

The Environmental Law and Policy Center and the Dakota Resource Council in late June filed a complaint with the state commission, maintaining that Meridian needs a permit for the site because the refinery’s capacity will be 55,000 barrels per day — above the threshold of 50,000 barrels in state law that triggers a commission review. The groups cited a number Meridian has previously given to the media, investors and government officials.

Meridian attorney Lawrence Bender said those statements were made as far back as 2 ½ years ago and are outdated.