Basin Electric Power Cooperative seeks site compatibility for North Dakota's largest gas plant

The Public Service Commission of North Dakota convened on August 7, 2025, to discuss significant energy projects that promise to reshape the state's energy landscape. Central to the meeting was the approval of Basin Electric Power Cooperative's application for a certificate of site compatibility for the Bison Generation Station, a natural gas-fired combined cycle power plant. This facility, set to be constructed on 240 acres in Williams County, is expected to generate up to 1,490 megawatts of power, making it the largest single plant in North Dakota upon completion.

The commission's discussions highlighted three critical issues regarding the proposed facility: its environmental impact, compatibility with resource preservation, and the minimization of adverse human and environmental effects. The commission found that the project would produce minimal adverse effects and would support the state's energy needs in a reliable manner. The first unit is scheduled for completion by October 2028, with commercial operations expected to begin in early 2029, while the second unit is anticipated to be operational by March 2030. The total estimated cost for the project is approximately $3.68 billion.

Commissioners praised the thoroughness of Basin Electric's application, noting the swift approval process, which took only six months from submission to decision. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first base load generation facility approved in North Dakota in 45 years, addressing the growing demand for energy in the region.

In addition to the Bison Generation Station, the commission also approved two pipeline projects by Highland Crude LLC. The Gullickson Reroute Pipeline, a 3.4-mile crude oil pipeline, and the Highland Express Spine Pipeline, a 28.1-mile natural gas liquids pipeline, were both deemed to have minimal adverse environmental impacts. These projects are expected to enhance the efficiency of energy transport in the state, with the Gullickson pipeline anticipated to be operational by November 2025 and the Highland Express pipeline by March 2026.

The commission's decisions reflect a commitment to balancing energy development with environmental stewardship, ensuring that North Dakota's energy infrastructure can meet future demands while minimizing impacts on local communities and ecosystems. As these projects move forward, they are expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region, marking a pivotal moment in North Dakota's energy sector.