Bismarck, N.D. – September 30, 2026 -- MDU Resources Group (NYSE: MDU) has reached a positive Final Investment Decision for its subsidiary WBI Energy to build the Bakken East Pipeline, a project estimated to cost between $2.7 billion and $3.2 billion.
Pipeline will carry 1.4 Bcf per day across 350 miles of North Dakota
The pipeline will run from the Bakken region in western North Dakota to a location near Fargo in the eastern part of the state, with an initial design capacity of 1.4 Bcf per day. The system is being engineered with flexibility to accommodate future capacity growth beyond that initial figure.
Construction to proceed in two phases through 2030
Construction will take place over the 2028-2030 seasons. The first phase, connecting the Bakken to central North Dakota, is targeted for completion in late 2029. The second phase, extending to an existing WBI Energy compressor station near Mapleton, N.D., carries a target completion date of late 2030. The project scope includes additions and modifications to three existing compressor stations and construction of four new ones.
North Dakota regulator backed project with $50 million annual commitment
The North Dakota Industrial Commission voted unanimously in August 2025 to support the project through a firm capacity commitment of $50 million per year for 10 years, reinforcing state-level backing for the infrastructure buildout.
"Reaching FID on the Bakken East Pipeline Project marks a significant milestone in our commitment to expanding critical natural gas infrastructure in the region," said Nicole A. Kivisto, President and CEO of MDU Resources Group. She cited "overwhelming support" from customers who have committed to utilizing capacity on the pipeline.
WBI Energy president says project has been in development since early 2025
WBI Energy President Rob Johnson said the company has worked on the Bakken East project since early 2025 and will continue engaging landowners and regulators as it advances toward construction.
MDU Resources is evaluating debt and equity financing structures to fund the project, including potential partnership agreements.