For years, North Dakota faced criticism over natural gas flaring—burning off excess gas that couldn’t be captured or transported. The challenge was largely due to the rapid growth of oil production outpacing pipeline and processing capacity. Now, a shift is underway. With the rise of energy-hungry data centers across the state, the demand for natural gas is turning from liability to asset.

These facilities, essential for cloud computing, AI development, and digital storage, require stable and large energy supplies. Natural gas is playing a growing role in meeting these needs, reducing waste and supporting infrastructure investment.

Bismarck and surrounding communities are watching this closely. Several proposed data center projects in Burleigh County could directly tie into natural gas supply chains, creating both jobs and new energy partnerships. Local leaders see this as an opportunity to reduce flaring, strengthen the grid, and bring high-tech investment into the region.

For residents, the benefits may extend beyond economic development. Improved gas capture means cleaner air and fewer wasted resources—a win for both industry and community health.

Bismarck city officials noted that integrating natural gas into data center energy plans could attract more technology companies to North Dakota. “This is a chance to diversify our economy while solving a long-standing problem,” one commissioner said.

As North Dakota’s oil and gas industry navigates the balance between energy production and environmental responsibility, data centers may offer a critical solution. For Bismarck, the shift means potential growth in both technology and energy sectors, creating a more sustainable and diversified local economy.

North Dakota turns natural gas growth into opportunity as data centers drive demand, reducing waste and creating tech-energy partnerships in Bismarck.