Basin Electric attends Lignite Energy Council Annual Conference

Leaders from North Dakota's energy industry, government, and research community gathered in Bismarck, North Dakota, for the Lignite Energy Council (LEC) Annual Conference, where discussions centered on the future of lignite, advancing technology, and opportunities for economic growth. The event was held Sept. 8 and 9 at the Advanced Technology Center on the campus of Bismarck State College.

The conference brought together coal mine and power plant employees, contractors, educators, students, and industry supporters to examine key issues affecting North Dakota's lignite sector. Conference sessions focused on energy policy, innovation, workforce development, and the long-term role of lignite in the state's economy.

Opening remarks were delivered by Todd Brickhouse, chairman of the LEC and CEO and general manager of Basin Electric Power Cooperative (Basin), followed by an industry update from Jonathan Fortner, president and CEO of the LEC. A featured panel explored federal energy policy and its implications for North Dakota, with participation from members of the state's congressional delegation, including Sen. John Hoeven, Sen. Kevin Cramer, and Rep. Julie Fedorchak.

The conference also included recognition of individuals and organizations through a series of industry awards honoring excellence in safety, reclamation, public service, and leadership. Trinity Turnbow, Basin Electric vice president and plant manager at Dakota Gasification Company (Dakota Gas), accepted the Distinguished Safety Award on behalf of Dakota Gas.

"I’m proud to see Dakota Gas recognized with the Distinguished Safety Award,” Turnbow said. “This honor belongs to every member of our team who works hard each day to create and maintain a safe workplace. Their commitment goes beyond simply following safety standards. It’s about looking out for one another, speaking up, and making sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day. I’m proud of the culture our employees have created and the commitment they continue to show to each other."

Additional presentations addressed electric grid reliability, lignite research and development, critical minerals, and the potential economic impact of data center growth in coal-producing regions. Andy Buntrock, Basin Electric vice president of strategic planning and communications, presented on the topic of “When the grid needs it most” which covered the cooperative’s all-of-the-above energy strategy, the importance of coal, and Basin's Large Load Commercial Program.

“Maintaining strong relationships with our stakeholder groups, including LEC, is essential, and events like this help make that possible,” Buntrock said. “These interactions provide valuable opportunities to share the cooperative’s story and strengthen those connections.”