The Lignite Energy Council recently partnered with the University of North Dakota’s Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) to evaluate how new large-load development could impact North Dakota’s lignite industry and the communities it supports.
The study focuses on Mercer, McLean, and Oliver counties and explores how increased electricity demand from energy-intensive industries could influence coal production, power generation, and local tax revenues. As demand for reliable, around-the-clock power continues to grow, North Dakota’s lignite-based generation remains well positioned to meet that need.
Findings from the study highlight the potential for meaningful local benefits when new load is served by existing coal-based infrastructure. In modeled scenarios, additional demand for electricity translates into increased coal utilization and new revenue flowing back to local communities through established tax mechanisms.
The full reports are available below.