North Dakota runs on affordable, reliable energy. From farms and ranches to oilfields and small towns, that foundation is built on lignite coal. It not only keeps the lights on, it fuels local economies, creates good-paying jobs, and funds essential services like schools and roads.
Coal country is proving its strength. In Oliver County, where Minnkota Power and BNI Energy provide nearly half the jobs, average wages are the highest in the state—nearly $99,000 a year. Mercer County has more than 1,400 people working in lignite-related jobs, and McLean County adds another 700. Every megawatt of lignite power produced contributes about $51,000 in taxes. Those revenues directly fund county and local government budgets, providing a major boost for schools, infrastructure, and community services. With more than a century’s worth of reserves, coal is here for the long haul.
In Bismarck, lawmakers have passed coal tax relief, modernized the Lignite Research Council, and built the groundwork for critical minerals production out of lignite. In Washington, federal leaders are rolling back unworkable and unlawful mandates. Together, these steps position North Dakota at the forefront of energy innovation.
And the best may be yet to come. A study underway at the Energy & Environmental Research Center is exploring new opportunities—critical minerals from lignite, enhanced oil recovery using captured carbon, and AI data centers powered by reliable coal-based electricity. These ideas could mean billions in new investment, more good jobs, and stronger schools and services across our state.
Coal has always powered North Dakota’s progress. Now, with smart policies and bold new opportunities, it’s ready to power our future.
Jonathan Fortner
Interim President & CEO
Lignite Energy Council
About the Lignite Energy Council
The Lignite Energy Council, the voice for North Dakota’s coal industry, is a regional trade association representing lignite producers, electric utilities, and more than 200 businesses that supply goods and services to the mines and plants. The Council plays a vital role in supporting an industry that generates approximately $5.5 billion in gross business volume annually and contributes $100 million in state and local tax revenues. The lignite industry also facilitates nearly 12,000 direct and indirect jobs across the state, strengthening North Dakota’s economy and energy landscape.