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North Dakota Judge Awards $345M Against Greenpeace Over Pipeline Protests

2/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A North Dakota judge finalized a $345 million judgment against Greenpeace, an environmental nonprofit, in an Energy Transfer case over Dakota Access Pipeline protests.
The jury awarded $667 million for Greenpeace's role in delays and reputational harm.
Greenpeace plans a new trial and may appeal to the North Dakota Supreme Court.
Energy Transfer calls the ruling a crucial step toward accountability.

History

Historical Context

The Dakota Access Pipeline protests began in April 2016, led by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, who opposed the pipeline's threat to their water supply and sacred sites. The protests gained national attention, culminating in significant legal battles, including a 2020 ruling that ordered a full environmental impact statement. This ongoing conflict highlights the tension between Indigenous rights and corporate interests in energy infrastructure.

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Story summary

A North Dakota judge finalized a $345 million judgment against Greenpeace, an environmental nonprofit, in an Energy Transfer case over Dakota Access Pipeline protests.
The jury awarded $667 million for Greenpeace's role in delays and reputational harm.
Greenpeace plans a new trial and may appeal to the North Dakota Supreme Court.
Energy Transfer calls the ruling a crucial step toward accountability.

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