Great Plains Synfuels Plant Tour — Beulah, North Dakota

Discover the Great Plains Synfuels Plant Tour in North Dakota

Located in Beulah, North Dakota, the Great Plains Synfuels Plant Tour offers visitors a rare opportunity to see one of the largest coal gasification facilities in the world. This industrial energy tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at how lignite coal from the region is converted into synthetic natural gas and other valuable chemical products.

Visitors learn about the complex gasification process, see large-scale industrial equipment, and discover how the facility produces energy resources used throughout North America.

Why it’s special: The Great Plains Synfuels Plant is the only commercial-scale coal gasification facility in the United States producing synthetic natural gas.

History & Story of the Great Plains Synfuels Plant

The Great Plains Synfuels Plant was developed in the 1980s as part of an effort to create alternative energy sources using domestic coal resources. The facility converts locally mined lignite coal into synthetic natural gas through a gasification process.

Today the plant is operated by Dakota Gasification Company and produces not only synthetic natural gas but also a range of chemical products such as fertilizers, solvents, and carbon dioxide used in enhanced oil recovery.

What You’ll See & Do on the Great Plains Synfuels Plant Tour

• Learn how lignite coal is converted into synthetic natural gas
• View large-scale gasification equipment and processing units
• Discover how by-products are used to create fertilizers and chemicals
• Learn about carbon capture and pipeline transportation systems
• Observe the plant’s industrial infrastructure and processing facilities
• Explore exhibits explaining North Dakota’s energy industry

Hands-On Elements: Educational presentations explaining coal gasification and energy production processes.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography may be restricted in certain industrial areas for safety and security reasons.

Souvenirs & Extras: Educational brochures about energy production and gasification technology available for visitors.

Pricing of the Great Plains Synfuels Plant Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Tours typically require advance reservations.

Visiting information for Great Plains Synfuels Plant Tour

Duration: Approximately 90 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome; safety guidelines must be followed

Accessibility: Industrial site; some areas may include stairs and walkways

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday Closed

Advance booking is required for all tours.

Nearby attractions to Great Plains Synfuels Plant Tour

• Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
• Beulah Bay Recreation Area
• Lake Sakakawea State Park

FAQs About Visiting the Great Plains Synfuels Plant Tour

What is synthetic natural gas?
Synthetic natural gas is produced by converting coal into methane through a chemical gasification process.

Where does the coal used at the plant come from?
The plant primarily uses lignite coal mined in nearby North Dakota mines.

Is the plant still in operation today?
Yes. The facility continues to operate and produce synthetic natural gas and chemical products.

Do visitors need reservations for the tour?
Yes. Tours must be scheduled in advance due to safety and security procedures.

What other products are made at the plant?
In addition to synthetic natural gas, the facility produces fertilizers, solvents, and carbon dioxide used in industrial applications.