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States compete on ‘clean coal’

August 10, 2005 /

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Bear Paw Development Corporation is a private non-profit organization created for the purpose of administering programs to help improve regional economic conditions in Hill, Blaine, Liberty, Chouteau and Phillips Counties and the Fort Belknap and Rocky Boy's Indian Reservations.

Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer has launched a campaign to land a coal-to-diesel project in the Big Sky State, and some economic leaders here suggest Wyoming should compete for such projects with more intensity.

Ed Werner, business development director for the Converse Area New Development Organization, said there’s a limited amount money available in the investment community for such projects, and it would be good for Wyoming to be the first in line.

Werner estimates it could cost up to $2 billion to build a single plant. If three or five plants are constructed in the United States in next few years, it could be several years later until there is a second round of spending.

"I believe we do have to be competitive — maybe not in the long run. But the first guy in becomes a much better-known entity, and you really want that industry to get started in your backyard," Werner said.

By DUSTIN BLEIZEFFER
Star-Tribune energy reporter

Full Story: http://www.casperstartribune.net/articles/2005/08/10/news/wyoming/a04aaec10b2a41c28725705800808706.txt