The Energy & Environmental Research Center’s (EERC’s) annual Energizing North Dakota event gathered state leaders, industry executives, researchers, and policymakers to explore North Dakota’s, and America’s, energy future. This year’s program highlighted a clear and growing emphasis on the vital role of enhanced oil recovery (EOR), energy infrastructure, and resource security in maintaining domestic energy leadership.
EERC CEO Charlie Gorecki set the tone in his opening remarks: “We are entering a new era of American energy, one that demands innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to responsibly developing our domestic resources.” That message carried through the day’s discussions, as speakers emphasized how advancing technology and thoughtful policy are key to ensuring North Dakota remains at the forefront of the national energy landscape.
A big focus of this year’s event was EOR in the Bakken. Governor Kelly Armstrong, joined by Chord Energy’s CEO Danny Brown and the EERC’s John Harju, discussed how new approaches to EOR can extend the productivity of existing fields and further strengthen North Dakota’s role as a leading oil producer. Their conversation underscored that maximizing the value of North Dakota’s energy resources not only supports local economies but also reinforces national energy security.
Another highlight of the event was the session North Dakota’s Role in Energy Dominance. The panel featured North Dakota State Senator Dale Patten, State Representative Jared Hagert, State Representative Anna Novak, and EERC Assistant Vice President for Strategic Partnerships, Tyler Hamman, who discussed the state’s strategic role in maintaining and advancing U.S. energy leadership. The conversation covered legislative initiatives aimed at supporting energy innovation and how North Dakota’s vast natural resources and forward-thinking policies position it as a key player in both traditional and emerging energy markets.
Infrastructure emerged as another major theme. With pipelines described as the “lifeblood of our country,” the importance of maintaining and modernizing energy transport networks was front and center. These systems not only move oil and gas safely and efficiently but also play an essential role in supporting the next generation of carbon management technologies.
In a technology showcase, EERC researchers highlighted advancements that tie directly to both regional growth and broader national priorities. From safe, measurable CO₂ storage to the extraction and processing of rare earth elements and critical materials (REEs and CMs), the projects reflect a growing recognition of the need for domestic solutions to global supply chain challenges.
Throughout the day, discussions returned to a unifying message: that securing America’s energy future depends on continued leadership, responsible resource development, infrastructure investment, and groundbreaking research. With its deep expertise, strategic partnerships, and bold vision, the EERC continues to help shape that future, not only for North Dakota, but for the world.