North Dakota has emerged as a national frontrunner in infrastructure, securing the 2nd position in the nation (U.S. News). The state’s commitment to innovation over regulation, coupled with a strategic focus on carbon neutrality by 2030, has positioned it as a hub for capital investment. At the forefront of this initiative is North Dakota’s unique geological advantage for carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) along with the potential to become a leader in hydrogen production, setting the stage for groundbreaking developments.
North Dakota is also the best state to do business ranked #1 in business friendliness (CNBC). Residents of the state are known for their warm and welcoming nature, hospitality, and willingness to help others.This welcoming atmosphere is one of the many reasons why North Dakota is such a great place to start a business.
The state has established itself as a leader in CCS activities, leveraging its natural geology to sequester significant amounts of CO2. Notably, North Dakota has granted Class VI injection well primacy to regulate CCS activities, showcasing a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. Natural gas, ethanol facilities, and coal are investing in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies, emphasizing the state’s commitment to reducing carbon footprints.
One standout project, the Cerilon gas-to-liquid (GTL) facility, is set to redefine innovation in northwest North Dakota. Boasting an estimated budget of $5.5 billion, this facility will be among North America’s largest and most advanced in its category. The Cerilon GTL facility’s cutting-edge technology enables the conversion of natural gas into various liquid fuels and valuable chemicals, including diesel, naphtha, gasoline, and mixed alcohols. What sets it apart is its seamless integration with carbon sequestration, actively contributing to environmental sustainability by securely storing CO2 emissions generated during the conversion process. This places Cerilon GTL as one of the world’s cleanest and most environmentally friendly GTL facilities, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.
Summit Pipeline, dedicated to establishing an interstate pipeline system, plays a crucial role in the efficient transportation of captured CO2. By connecting Midwestern states’ ethanol plants to Western North Dakota for CO2 sequestration, Summit Pipeline contributes to a streamlined and sustainable infrastructure network.
Project Tundra represents another leap in CCUS technology, aiming to capture approximately 90 percent of CO2 emissions from units at the Young Station. The secure underground storage of captured CO2 marks a significant milestone, demonstrating North Dakota’s commitment to advancing clean energy solutions.
The Green Bison Soybean Processing plant in Spiritwood stands as a bridge between the energy and agriculture sectors. With an impressive processing capacity of 150,000 bushels per day, this facility annually produces 600 million pounds of refined soybean oil, driving renewable diesel production.
Additionally, it generates 1.28 million tons of soybean meal, supporting animal agriculture production in the region.
Epitome Energy in Grand Forks further solidifies North Dakota’s role as a vital link between energy and agriculture. With a processing capacity of 120,000 bushels per day, this facility annually produces 60 million gallons of refined soybean oil for renewable diesel production and 940,000 tons of soybean meal to support regional animal agriculture.
CGB Enterprises in Casselton will bridge the gap between the energy and agriculture sectors, producing 600 million pounds of refined soybean oil annually for renewable diesel production. Additionally, it will generate 1.28 million tons of soybean meal, supporting regional animal agriculture. The facility, with a daily processing capacity of 150,000 bushels, is set to create substantial demand for the region’s soybean supply. It will produce 75 million gallons of soybean oil, to be transformed into renewable diesel.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s selection of the Heartland Hydrogen Hub for up to $925 million in funding underscores North Dakota’s collaborative efforts in advancing regional clean energy projects. This initiative involves cooperation among the states of North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, and Wisconsin, highlighting the state’s influence in shaping the future of sustainable energy.
North Dakota’s strategic focus on innovation, joined with a commitment to carbon neutrality, has established the state as a leader in infrastructure development. The state’s projects in carbon capture, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture showcase a holistic approach towards a greener and more resilient future.
For more information about locating or expanding in North Dakota, visit www.commerce.nd.gov.
