Navigating the Energy Landscape: A Conversation with Jason Bohrer on Coal Energy in North Dakota
Article by Kacie Kostelecky
In a recent interview, Jason Bohrer, a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in energy policy, shares insights into his journey from Washington D.C. to the heart of North Dakota's coal industry. We delve into his perspectives on coal energy, its challenges, opportunities, and its crucial role in North Dakota's economy.
Jason Bohrer, CEO/President · Lignite Energy Council
A Unique Perspective: Rural Roots and Energy Policy
Jason Bohrer’s transition from the nation's capital to North Dakota was motivated by a desire to explore energy opportunities in his ancestral state. With roots in rural North Dakota, he emphasizes the unique outlook agrestic states bring to energy use, shaped by extreme climates and a producer-centered economy. His experience as a liaison to a nuclear research center provided him with valuable insights into energy policy creation and distribution challenges.
Coal Energy in North Dakota: Regulatory Challenges and Market Shifts
Discussing the state of coal energy in North Dakota, Bohrer highlights two significant challenges. Firstly, he addresses the impact of federal regulations on the industry, emphasizing the need to combat policies with substantial price tags that may not serve real-world purposes. Secondly, he points out the evolving market dynamics. “There’s a shift away from pursuing reliability towards federal price subsidies,” says Bohrer, “and that creates a distorted playing field against coal.”
Despite these challenges, Bohrer expresses optimism, noting the industry's efficiency and competitiveness, particularly in lignite power plants.
“We have a path through that challenging future. We have gotten through tough patches before with engagement with stakeholders.”
He underscores the importance of carbon capture and innovative mining practices to address environmental concerns raised by certain groups.
Legislation's Impact and Misconceptions: Clearing the Air
Bohrer discusses recent legislation's impact on the coal industry in North Dakota and dispels misconceptions. One prevalent misconception he addresses is the outdated image of coal plants, highlighting the industry's technological advancements and robust cybersecurity protocols.
“The most overwhelming big-picture misconception is that smoke comes out of a stack of a powerplant. The media reinforces that perception. If you don’t know any better, you might believe that.” Bohrer continues, “People picture the plants as they would have been 70 years ago without understanding what they are today. The air coming out of a stack is often cleaner than the air around it.”
Environmental Initiatives and North Dakota's Unique Contribution
In addressing environmental concerns, Bohrer outlines initiatives to capture and sequester CO2, leveraging North Dakota's geology and forward-thinking policymakers. “There’re enough things unique about North Dakota’s position that you could write a whole story just on that. The state's position as a leader in this aspect contributes to the broader national conversation on energy.”
Technological Advancements and Collaborative Efforts
Bohrer sheds light on technological advancements, with a focus on carbon capture technology and the extraction of critical minerals.
“Critical minerals go into the technology we use in modern life. In phones, cars computers, and more, these minerals are often coming out of China. We have the minerals right here in North Dakota- significant amounts- and we’re finding they sit alongside the lignite coal in many existing operations.”
He continues to discuss collaborative efforts between the government, industry, and environmental groups, emphasizing North Dakota's unique collaborative culture and the importance of diversifying the coal industry.
“Policymakers are constantly looking for better ways to leverage North Dakota’s positive attributes. They’re willing to invest in our future; we’re one of a handful of places with these raw materials. I like to think we are unique in the ability to embrace that opportunity.”
Guiding Principles and Future Workforce
Bohrer shares some leadership insight, advocating for acknowledging the true contributors to success. Looking to the future, he envisions a high-tech workforce in the coal industry, attracting young talent with the promise of critical minerals and advanced technologies.
“Someone told me once, ‘Take the blame for every failure and share the benefit for every success with the people who earned it.’”
Bohrer expounded, “As a leader, I am not the reason for every success. So, I look for the real people who make the successes happen and give them the credit. That’s just good advice as a leader. Especially after my time in Washington DC, I can see how hard staff work. The true workhorses in the businesses need to get the credit they deserve.”
As we navigate the complex energy landscape, Jason Bohrer’s perspective provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping North Dakota's coal industry, showcasing the state's unique position in the national energy dialogue.