Western Minnesota runs on reliable energy and the infrastructure that moves it. From heating homes to powering farms, pipelines keep this region running. Yet every time a new project is proposed, we get the same tired opposition from people who ignore how critical they are for jobs, economic growth, and affordable energy.

As a former business representative for Local 49, I’ve seen firsthand what these projects mean for working families. When we build pipelines — whether for natural gas, carbon capture, or anything else — we’re not just moving fuel.

We’re creating good-paying union jobs that support local economies, put food on the table, and keep small towns thriving.

Take natural gas pipelines. Natural gas is cheap, reliable, and essential. It keeps families warm in winter and powers manufacturing and agriculture without driving up electricity bills.

Unfortunately, we lack the infrastructure to fully realize its potential. I support renewable energy, but we need natural gas as a backup when those sources fall short.

Carbon pipelines matter, too. Ethanol production is big for rural Minnesota, supporting farmers, truckers, and plant workers. But for ethanol plants to stay competitive, they need carbon capture. Without a way to transport CO2 to storage, these plants could struggle or even shut down — costing jobs, weakening rural economies, and hurting farmers.

Blocking pipelines doesn’t stop energy demand. It just forces us to move energy in less efficient, more expensive, and more dangerous ways. Pipelines are safer, period. And every project creates high-paying union jobs right here in Minnesota.

We need to get real about energy infrastructure. Instead of fighting these projects, we should ensure they’re built safely, with the best technology and the best workers. That’s how we keep our region strong, competitive, and ready for the future.

— Will Thomssen is a former business representative for IUOE Local 49.