June Paul Matthys Editorial

For generations, North Dakotans have understood the importance of building for the future.

Whether it is roads, transmission lines, water systems, or energy infrastructure, long-term investments are what allow our communities, farms and businesses to grow and prosper.

That is why the Bakken East Pipeline Project is such an important development for our state.

In April, the North Dakota Industrial Commission approved a plan to allocate $500 million over the next 10 years to support development of the project. That decision sends a strong signal that North Dakota is committed to strengthening its energy infrastructure and preparing for future growth.

The Bakken East Pipeline, being developed by WBI Energy, would transport natural gas from the Bakken region in western North Dakota to central and eastern parts of the state. The project is expected to move approximately 1 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day and would be built in two phases, with a target in-service date around 2030.

Phase one would extend from northwestern North Dakota into the central part of the state. Phase two would continue eastward, helping deliver additional natural gas capacity to growing communities and industries throughout eastern North Dakota.

At Cass County Electric Cooperative, we strongly support this project because we recognize the critical role reliable energy infrastructure plays in the future of our region.

As electricity demand continues to increase across North Dakota, utilities need dependable, dispatchable generation resources that can operate regardless of weather conditions or time of day. Natural gas generation provides that reliability. Expanding access to natural gas infrastructure creates opportunities for electric cooperatives and utilities across the state (including Cass County Electric and Minnkota, our wholesale power provider) to diversify generation resources while maintaining reliability for homes, farms, and businesses.

This project is a foundational piece of infrastructure that can help support future economic development, attract new industry, and strengthen long-term energy reliability throughout North Dakota.

Reliable and affordable energy remains one of North Dakota’s greatest competitive advantages. Communities considering expansion or industrial development consistently look for dependable energy availability before making investment decisions. Projects like Bakken East help ensure North Dakota is prepared to meet those future needs.

The project also reflects a practical approach to using resources that are already being produced in our state. By moving more Bakken-region natural gas to consumers and industries across North Dakota, the pipeline can help maximize the value of our existing energy resources while supporting continued economic activity.

As the project moves forward, WBI Energy continues feasibility studies, route refinement and stakeholder outreach while the federal review process proceeds. Community members will have opportunities to stay informed through public open houses, comment periods, and updates provided by WBI Energy and through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission review process.

Major infrastructure projects require planning, partnership, and long-term vision. The Bakken East Pipeline Project is an investment that can help provide reliable energy, support economic growth, and strengthen communities across our state for decades to come.