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Senator Dorgan’s Energy Plan for North Dakota

North Dakota is poised to play a vital role in reducing our dependence on foreign sources of energy. Our diversified energy portfolio puts our state in the unique position to help us achieve our goal by contributing traditional fossil fuels, as well as newly competitive renewable fuels.

The increased production of oil and natural gas in the Western part of our state has been a crucial factor in increasing our economic and employment base. Additionally, planned increases in ethanol, biodiesel and wind production will provide significant rural economic development. These increases have contributed to our overall economic growth, but more can be done.

Earlier this year I announced plans to create an Energy Corridor in the western part of our state. Modeled after the successful Research Corridor in the eastern part of the state, I firmly believe that we can attract businesses and investment, while helping to achieve our goal of energy independence.

With the $250,000 in funding I provided in this year’s appropriations bill, the Energy Corridor field office, housed at Bismarck State College, will bring people and industries together to produce synergies that will promote and advance energy production in our state. Whether it is the increased use of renewable fuels such as ethanol and wind or traditional fossil fuels such as coal or oil, the Energy Corridor will play a significant part in advancing our state and national energy supply and needs.

Once established, the coordinating field office will help interested parties navigate the federal and state grants process; be a central location for data and contacts; and provide federal and state energy strategies and updates.