Critical Challenges. Practical Solutions.
RESEARCH NEWS
How North Dakota’s Lignite Story Gave Rise to the EERC
The EERC originated from North Dakota’s need to efficiently utilize lignite coal, evolving into a vital institution through collaboration and innovation over the past 75 years amidst economic challenges and changing energy demands.
From Coal to Carbon Products: EERC Technology Receives U.S. Patent
A new U.S. patent from the EERC transforms coal into advanced materials, specifically graphene quantum dots (GQDs). These nanoscale particles offer unique optical and electronic properties for various applications. Originating from North Dakota’s SERC research, this innovation repurposes coal through a patented process, promising future advancements in diverse industries.
PCOR Partnership Receives 2025 Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission Chair’s Stewardship Award
The EERC is proud to announce that the PCOR Partnership has been awarded the 2025 IOGCC Chair’s Stewardship Award. This prestigious honor recognizes organizations that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and meaningful partnerships in advancing environmental stewardship.
OUR PEOPLE
Energy Hawks Soar Through the State’s Energy Landscape
Through immersive field experiences and collaborative research projects, this year’s Energy Hawks Interns tackled some of the state’s most pressing energy challenges with a focus on innovation and community impact.
Meet the 2025 Energy Hawks
Established in 2018, the Energy Hawks is a group of graduate and undergraduate students from a wide range of disciplines focused on adding value to North Dakota’s energy industry through a broad range of concepts.
EERC Recognized for Outstanding Support of Breastfeeding Employees
The EERC is proud to announce that it has been recognized by the Greater Grand Forks Breastfeeding Coalition and Grand Forks Public Health for its outstanding efforts in supporting breastfeeding employees in the workplace.

EERC Named to List of 50 Best Places To Work
Prairie Business this year received more than 1,700 nominations from employees from around the region.


