Just launched: "Closing the Gap," a new podcast hosted by Alaskan energy researcher Gwen Holdmann, takes listeners on a global tour of the cutting edge of energy resource diversification. From geothermal beaches in Iceland to solar-powered villages in the Arctic Circle, Holdmann shares stories of innovation and possibility. Listen for informed insight into the future of sustainable energy and the potential it holds for Alaska.
March 15, 2024
Anchorage Daily News
Alaska’s world-class clean energy resources can not only secure our energy independence but have the potential to drive new economic vitality. With significant federal funding currently available, New Energy Alaska is calling on policymakers, utility boards, and business leaders to seize this moment and work together to build a thriving clean energy sector.
March 13, 2024
Anchorage Daily News
A DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory report concluded that expanding wind and solar energy projects along the Railbelt could save Alaskans $1.4 billion in avoided fossil fuel and natural gas-related costs.
March 7, 2024
Local First Media Group
Kootznoowoo, Inc. received a $26.9 million grant from the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations for an 850 kW hydroelectric facility at Thayer Creek near Angoon, Alaska. The new facility will provide affordable, reliable power for the town's residents while replacing costly diesel fuel, reducing CO2 emissions.
March 5, 2024
Anchorage Daily News
A new NREL report analyzing the cost of adopting 80% renewables on the Railbelt suggests that increasing solar and wind energy would lead to cost savings compared to importing natural gas. The study concludes that aiming for a 75% renewable electricity contribution presents the most cost-effective option. However, to meet energy demands, existing hydro and fossil fuel generators will still be used when renewables are unavailable.
March 5, 2024
Anchorage Daily News
A federal grant totaling around $55 million is set to bring heat pumps and solar energy systems to villages in the Northwest Arctic Borough. Solar arrays and battery systems will be installed in villages owned by regional tribes, allowing them to sell power back to utilities. With the potential to offset 350,000 gallons of diesel fuel annually and save residents $2 million in electricity and heating costs, the project addresses the region's high energy expenses while fostering economic development opportunities.
March 1, 2024
Peninsula Clarion
Sen. Jesse Bjorkman discusses Senate Bill 254, which aims to cut royalties on Cook Inlet natural gas to ensure reliability and affordability for all Alaskans and reverse the Cook Inlet gas crisis. By reducing royalty rates for existing gas fields and waiving royalty rates for new gas fields, the bill aims to incentivize the development of known gas resources in the Cook Inlet basin.
February 29, 2024
Energy.gov
The Department of Energy is making $200 million available for transmission projects in Alaska. This funding will help link remote microgrids to infrastructure, enhancing overall grid reliability and improving energy access.
The Galena River Energy Project, aims to explore using in-river turbines to generate electricity. With a $9.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, the project focuses on hydrokinetic technologies. If successful, it could provide a reliable and cost-effective alternative to diesel generators, with community involvement guiding decisions. The project also aims to address challenges in harnessing river energy, potentially serving as a model for other Alaskan communities.
February 27, 2024
Energy.gov
The Dept. of Energy announced $25 million in funding to help tribal communities deploy clean energy technology, increase energy sovereignty and resiliency, and lower energy costs. Funding applications are due May 30, 2024.
