Leland Olds Station Power Plant Tour — Stanton, North Dakota

Discover the Leland Olds Station Power Plant Tour in North Dakota

Located near Stanton, North Dakota, along the Missouri River, the Leland Olds Station Power Plant Tour offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of the largest coal-fired power plants in the Upper Midwest. This industrial facility tour demonstrates how locally mined lignite coal is converted into electricity that powers homes and businesses across several states.

Visitors learn about the engineering systems used in large-scale power generation, including boilers, turbines, cooling systems, and emissions control technology.

Why it’s special: Leland Olds Station is one of the largest power plants operated by Basin Electric Power Cooperative and plays a major role in the regional energy grid.

History & Story of Leland Olds Station

Leland Olds Station was built in the 1970s to help meet the growing electricity demand across the northern plains. The plant was designed to utilize abundant lignite coal mined in central North Dakota, providing a reliable and cost-effective energy source.

Named after Leland Olds, a pioneer in public power development in the United States, the facility remains a critical component of the Basin Electric cooperative system that supplies electricity to millions of consumers.

What You’ll See & Do on the Leland Olds Station Power Plant Tour

• Learn how lignite coal is delivered and prepared for power generation
• See massive boilers used to produce high-pressure steam
• Observe turbine generators that convert steam energy into electricity
• Discover how cooling systems and water infrastructure operate
• Learn about environmental controls and emissions reduction technologies
• Explore educational displays explaining regional energy production

Hands-On Elements: Educational demonstrations explaining the process of converting coal into electricity.

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

Souvenirs & Extras: Educational brochures about North Dakota’s energy industry available for visitors.

Pricing of the Leland Olds Station Power Plant Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Tours are generally arranged for educational groups and visitors with advance reservations.

Visiting information for Leland Olds Station Power Plant Tour

Duration: Approximately 60–90 minutes

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

Accessibility: Industrial facility with stairs and elevated walkways

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday Closed

Advance booking is required for plant tours.

Nearby attractions to Leland Olds Station Power Plant Tour

• Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
• Missouri River Recreation Area
• Dakota Territory Air Museum

FAQs About Visiting the Leland Olds Station Power Plant Tour

What type of fuel does the power plant use?
The plant primarily burns lignite coal mined in central North Dakota.

Who operates Leland Olds Station?
The facility is operated by Basin Electric Power Cooperative.

Is the power plant still operating today?
Yes. The plant continues to generate electricity for the cooperative energy network.

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

Why is the plant named Leland Olds?
The plant is named after Leland Olds, an early advocate of public power in the United States.