BNI Coal, LTD a subsidiary of BNI Energy, is developing North Dakota's abundant lignite energy resource. At its Center Mine, BNI mines and reclaims about 200 acres a year to supply lignite coal to fuel the nearby Milton R. Young Generation Station.  Two electric generating cooperatives, Minnkota Power and Square Butte, operate the Young Station, which consumes virtually all of the coal produced at Center Mine under agreements in place through 2037. The Young Station generations low cost, reliable, domestic energy for customers in North Dakota and Minnesota.

It's the people of BNI Coal - mostly native North Dakotans -

Expertise in Operations and Development

The BNI team includes skilled and experienced operators and professionals with expertise in mine operations, logistics, permitting, project management and development. In May 2014, BNI secured approval to add more than 8,000 acres to its permit at the Center Mine as part of a major expansion and recapitalization of its mine operations. BNI now has about 18,000 acres under permit.

Solid Growth Platform

Long-term coal supply agreements, reserves of 600 million tons and a solid track record as a low-cost producer of lignite coal ensure that BNI is positioned for future growth. The company employs efficient, safe and environmentally sound mining methodologies and has developed strong relationships with landowners through exceptional environmental and land stewardship. Strategically located in an energy-rich area, BNI is able to leverage parent company ALLETE’s strong financials as the company evaluates opportunities in coal and tangential industries and services.

Mission and Values

BNI has earned a reputation for industry leadership in delivering exceptional customer value. This reputation is supported by the values that we live every day

who have created the company's success. BNI employees are committed to working safely, working hard, and working efficiently to balance coal mining with the environment so that we leave the land as productive as we found it. 

BNI Coal employs approximately 175 employees. Our hourly employees are represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Union, Local 1593. 

The Center Mine located 35 miles NW of Bismarck is home to the mining operation and all support departments.  The success of our Mining Operations depends on the experience and hard work of the people who staff this department. Their efficiency and commitment to safety are key factors in BNI’s ability to remain the lowest cost producer of lignite in the area. 

The Engineering department handles the applications for mining permits and planning (see our Mining Process), and Landowner Relations. Staffed with engineers, geologists, reclamation specialists, permit coordinators and surveyors, this department provides essential support for the mining operations. 

BNI’s Purchasing/Maintenance department procures all goods and services necessary for BNI Coal’s operations. They also keep our mobile equipment running in a safe and efficient manner. A team of diesel mechanics keeps our equipment in working order.

Information Technology supports communication throughout the company.  Our mining operators and heavy equipment use GPS technology to assist in the daily work of moving dirt and coal.

Safety and Training are other vital support services located at the mine site.  BNI has developed an extensive onboarding program that emphasizes both general safety and safety as it pertains to operating individual pieces of heavy equipment on location at the mine site.

Corporate Headquarters in Bismarck, ND handles our full array of administrative functions, including accounts payable, billing, budgets, financial reporting, governmental reporting, compliance, human resources and payroll.