As we reflect on the significant events that shaped the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) in 2023, we start with a celebration that marked the institution’s roots and its journey over four decades.
1. EERC’s 40th Anniversary – A Journey of Evolution and Collaboration
February 2023 marked the 40th anniversary of the EERC, a milestone tracing its roots back to the 1890s. Defederalized in 1983, the EERC became a research extension of the University of North Dakota (UND), signifying a pivotal moment in its history. The cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) laid the foundation for the EERC’s evolution into a global leader in energy and environmental R&D, spanning fossil fuels, renewables, and pollution prevention.
2. 20 years of Carbon Sequestration Excellence – PCOR Partnership’s Anniversary
In 2003, the PCOR Partnership emerged as one of seven Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnerships (RCSPs) designated by former Energy Secretary, Spencer Abraham. Focused on the upper Great Plains and northwest regions, the PCOR Partnership began with Phase I, characterizing CO2 emission sources and storage potential. Successful field validation projects and pilot demonstrations underscored the effectiveness of carbon capture and storage in the region. This anniversary marks two decades of advancing technologies for a sustainable energy future.
3. The Sun Doesn’t Set Over the EERC
During the 68th Legislative Assembly earlier this year, a monumental decision was made: the abolishment of the Sunset Clause for the State Energy Research Center (SERC). This crucial move signified the assembly’s acknowledgment of the EERC’s invaluable contributions to the state. The legislative changes regarding SERC were significant, particularly in allocating $7.5 million per biennium for the EERC to conduct exploratory research. This newfound support has catalyzed pivotal projects under SERC, including research into enhanced oil recovery in the Bakken, the development of high-value carbon products, commercial deployments and demonstrations of mercury control at North Dakota power plants, and carbon capture from lignite coal-fired facilities.
4. iPIPE’s Cosmic Exploration for Pipeline Safety
The intelligent Pipeline Integrity Program (iPIPE) took a bold step into space, joining Orbital Sidekick’s Global Hyperspectral Observation Satellite (GHOStTM) constellation. Launched in April 2023, from the Vandenberg Space Force Base, the hyperspectral imaging microsatellites began global monitoring to enhance pipeline safety. iPIPE’s innovative approach, supported by the NDIC’s Oil and Gas Research Program (OGRP), demonstrated a commitment to cutting-edge technologies in the pursuit of safer energy infrastructure.
5. Karlene Fine Receives the 2023 Energy Champion Award
Karlene Fine, former Executive Director of the NDIC, earned the EERC’s 13th Energy Champion Award. With over 50 years of dedicated service, Fine’s leadership and commitment to clean, sustainable energy have left an indelible mark. Overseeing crucial entities, including the Lignite Research Program and the Clean Sustainable Energy Authority, Fine’s impact on EERC’s growth and collaboration with stakeholders is commendable. Her legacy was celebrated as she became the latest recipient of this prestigious award in July.
6. Charlie’s Vision Shared at TEDxFargo – Energy Transformation and Global Responsibility
Charlie Gorecki, EERC CEO, delivered a compelling speech at TEDxFargo, shedding light on the intricate nexus between energy, security, and global challenges. Reflecting on his personal journey, Gorecki emphasized the need for an “Energy Transformation” that combines renewable and fossil fuel resources with carbon capture. His visionary perspective underscored the importance of a diverse energy portfolio to ensure clean, reliable, and affordable energy on a global scale.
7. Hubs, Hubs, and More Hubs
In a year marked by remarkable achievements, the EERC stands out for its success in securing significant awards. With a commitment to solving the world’s critical energy and environmental challenges, we’ve been awarded numerous projects, including the notable Prairie Compass Direct Air Capture (DAC) Hub and the Heartland Hydrogen Hub (HH2H). The Prairie Compass DAC Hub explores the economic scaling of DAC technology in North Dakota. Successful implementation could capture and store 1 million metric tons of CO2 annually by 2030, aligning with DOE’s Carbon Negative Shot goal. Similarly, HH2H focuses on producing low-carbon hydrogen and decarbonizing supply chains across multiple states. These awards not only recognize our commitment to clean energy but also position us at the forefront of groundbreaking technologies and solutions.
8. Our Team Members Shine Bright
Some notable awards this year have been Tressa Graves, Librarian and Archivist, received the prestigious President’s Award from the North Dakota Library Association, acknowledging her outstanding service to the Association. Additionally, John Kay, Principal Engineer, Emissions and Carbon Capture, was honored with the Distinguished Service for Rare-Earth Elements and Critical Minerals Resource Characterization during the annual Lignite Energy Council meeting. Rosemary Pleva Flynn, Principal Librarian and Archivist, achieved the distinguished honor of being inducted as a Fellow of the Society of American Archivists, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the archivist profession. These awards underscore the caliber of talent and expertise within the EERC team.
9. Oh, The Places You’ll Go
Our dedicated team members have traversed the globe, representing EERC’s commitment to global collaboration and knowledge exchange. Notable journeys included visits to Iceland, Japan, and Turkey, showcasing the international reach of EERC expertise. Notably, Josh Stanislowski, Charlie Gorecki, and John Hamling visited Iceland to explore the Orca facility, a pivotal component of the DAC project mentioned earlier. These global interactions strengthen the EERC’s role as a leader in energy and environmental research on an international scale.
10. Connecting with Coworkers and Community
Last, but certainly not least, we go beyond the realm of research to highlight the connections we’ve made with each other and our community. Events like Summer Connect, a multiday opportunity for in-person training and collaboration, exemplify our commitment to interpersonal connections furthering our knowledge. Volunteer efforts, such as supporting Red River Valley Community Action, Adopt-a-Family, and the Northlands Rescue Mission Backpack Program, highlight our dedication to social causes and community welfare. These endeavors underscore our commitment to not only advancing cutting-edge research but also contributing to the well-being of the communities it serves.
