Miles SmithA $4 billion project to build a new natural gas generation facility is in the works in Williams County, North Dakota.
Basin Electric Power Cooperative recently announced plans to construct its new facility near Epping, North Dakota, where it will produce approximately 1,470 MW of electricity.
The project – which is one of the largest electric generation projects in the co-op’s history – will include two units that will help meet electric load growth in the region, Bison Electric said.
Pending regulatory approval, site grading is expected to begin later this year, with foundation construction scheduled for 2026.
“Building the Bison Generation facility represents the cooperative model at its best— prioritizing member needs through enhanced reliability, affordability, and community-focused benefits,” said Basin Electric CEO and General Manager Todd Brickhouse. “This investment strengthens our commitment to an all-of-the-above generation portfolio strategy, balancing diverse fuel types, generation methods, and locations to ensure resilience and flexibility.”
The facility will burn natural gas to create energy that turns a combustion turbine, similar to a jet engine. Exhaust heat from the combustion turbine will be captured by a heat recovery steam generator and used to make steam. The steam will then turn a turbine that is connected to a generator that produces electricity.
Commercial operations are slated to begin in 2030, the utility said.
Basin Electric’s largest facility will help meet rising power demand that stems from growing industrial work, manufacturing, data processing, residential customers, and small businesses, including farms and ranches.
“Basin Electric has been increasing its renewable portfolio over the years, and this natural gas facility will fill in the gaps when wind and solar are not available,” said Basin Electric Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Gavin McCollam.
Photo by Brett Sayles
