Economic Impact

Aside from powering America, coal-based electricity boosts our economy.

According to the North Dakota State University Agricultural Economics Department, the state’s lignite industry is the fifth largest industry, following agriculture, tourism, manufacturing and petroleum. More than 28,000 jobs in North Dakota result either directly or indirectly from the coal mining and power generating industries. In fact, people working for the coal industry in North Dakota enjoy some of the state’s highest wages. North Dakota’s economy receives about $3 billion in total business activity due to coal per year, and nearly $100 million in state tax revenue annually.

The North Dakota Geological Survey estimates that recoverable, in-state coal reserves can supply North Dakota coal-based power plants for over 800 years at their current consumption rates. This is especially crucial to our region as states in the Upper Midwest rely heavily on affordable, reliable electricity. North Dakota’s lignite-based electricity generates substantial economic benefits for our region’s economy, and will continue to do so for years to come.