Registration now open: 2026 Annual Conference

September 8–9, 2026  |  Advanced Technology Center, Bismarck State College

The Lignite Energy Council’s Annual Conference returns to Bismarck State College this September. Join industry leaders, legislators, researchers, and energy professionals for two days of conversation on the issues shaping the future of North Dakota’s lignite industry.

This year’s sessions will explore the current state of lignite, new technologies and innovation, and future growth and job opportunities. Topics covered this year will be relevant to everyone who powers this industry, from mine and plant workers to students, educators, contractors, and retirees.

Agenda

Tuesday, September 8
8:00 a.m. Exhibitor setup
11:30 a.m. – Registration Opens
Noon – Networking lunch, exhibit hall open
1:00 p.m. – Programming begins
3:15 p.m. – Mine & Plant Updates
4:30 p.m. – Members Only Social & Individual Company Sessions

Wednesday, September 9
8:00 a.m. – Networking breakfast (no programming)
8:30 a.m. – Lignite Council Awards Presentation
12:30 p.m. – Networking Lunch
3:45 p.m. – Meeting concludes

(agenda subject to change)

Who should attend?

• Company employees, mine and plant workers
• Contractors, suppliers, and industry partners
• Students and educators
• Retirees and industry supporters

Registration

Early bird registration is open until August 21

• Full conference pass: $200 until August 21, then $300
• Single day pass: $150 until August 21, then $200

Sponsorship and Exhibitor opportunities are also available.

Exhibit booth: $400
Includes table and one registration
Limit 30 booths

Diamond Sponsor: $3,500
Includes 8 attendee registrations

• Logo on event posters
• ½ page ad in program booklet (must be submitted by 8/13)
• Exhibit booth included
• Additional recognition

Platinum Sponsor: $2,500
Includes 3 attendee registrations

• Logo on event posters
• ¼ page ad in program booklet (must be submitted by 8/13)
• Exhibit booth included
• Additional recognition

Social Sponsor: $1,500 – SOLD OUT
Limit 4

• Includes 2 attendee registrations
• Logo on beverage napkins and social signage
• Discounted exhibit booth option
• Supporter Sponsor: $750
• Includes one conference registration
• Logo included on event posters

Supporter Sponsor: $750

• Includes one conference pass
• Logo included on event posters
• Logo included in all participant emails

Friend of Lignite: $250
Written name recognition on printed materials

Recognize Excellence – Submit a 2026 Award Nomination

The Lignite Energy Council is now accepting nominations for awards to be presented at the 2026 Annual Conference. These awards recognize the individuals and organizations whose dedication, expertise, and passion have strengthened the lignite industry and the communities it serves. We encourage you to take a moment to nominate someone who deserves to be recognized.