Jonathan Fortner

BISMARCK – The Lignite Energy Council’s Board of Directors announced it has named Jonathan Fortner as the organization’s president and chief executive officer, following a vote at its board meeting Tuesday, Sept. 16. Fortner has served as interim president and CEO since March and becomes just the fourth individual to lead the council in its 50-year history.

Fortner joined the Lignite Energy Council in 2018 and most recently served as vice president of Government Affairs and External Relations.

His work has helped align industry partners on key policy priorities, elevate public understanding of coal’s role in energy reliability and support the industry’s continued investment in research and development.

“I’m honored to serve this industry and excited to lead the council at such a pivotal time,” Fortner said in a news release. “Our members power homes, businesses, and communities across the region, and they do it with a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. I look forward to working alongside them to ensure lignite continues to provide opportunities for North Dakotans now and for generations to come.”