08.07.13

Hoeven Reviews Construction of New Dakota Prairie Diesel Refinery Site

Senator Says Infrastructure Investment Key Component of Comprehensive National Energy Policy

DICKINSON, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today joined officials from MDU Resources Group, Inc. and Calumet Specialty Products Partners to review construction of the new Dakota Prairie Diesel Refinery in southwestern North Dakota. Hoeven cited the $300 million facility as the kind of infrastructure investments needed to grow domestic energy production, create good jobs and is a key component in a comprehensive national energy policy to make our nation energy secure.

“The Dakota Prairie Diesel Refinery is a prime example of the kind of infrastructure investments we need to build a strong energy future for North Dakota and our nation,” said Hoeven. “This refinery will not only create jobs and the diesel we need in this region, but it will help to grow our domestic energy production. It’s a prime example of how we can leverage American energy resources to help make our nation more energy secure and independent.” 

Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has been working to build a comprehensive energy policy for the nation. Hoeven energy initiatives include:

  • Domestic Energy and Jobs Act (DEJA).  DEJA is a wide-ranging package of 12 diverse energy bills that addresses both traditional and renewable development, and is designed to streamline and simplify regulations, boost domestic energy supplies, build American energy infrastructure and safeguard America’s supply of critical minerals. The legislation will help to cut red tape preventing refineries from being built.
  • The Empower States Act. This Hoeven legislation would ensure that states retain the right to manage hydraulic fracturing and gives them the ability to respond first to any violation.
  • Approving the Keystone XL Pipeline. Hoeven successfully included an amendment to the Senate budget that affirms the Senate’s support for approval of the Keystone XL pipeline project, important energy infrastructure for North Dakota and the nation. The measure was approved by a vote of 62-37.  Hoeven is sponsoring legislation to approve the pipeline, which is currently being held up by the President.

Dakota Prairie Refining is a joint venture between MDU Resources and Calumet to develop, build and operate the refinery. The refinery, which is being built on 318-acres west of Dickinson, is expected to be operational in 2014. According to company officials, the plant will create more than 400 construction jobs and will employ approximately 100 people long-term.