HomeMy WebLinkAboutAPPLICATION - Levelock Rnd 15 Signed ApplicationRenewable Energy Fund Round 15
Grant Application – Standard Form
AEA 23046 Page 1 of 31 10/04/2022
Application Forms and Instructions
This instruction page and the following grant application constitutes the Gr ant Application Form for
Round 15 of the Renewable Energy Fund (REF). A separate application form is available for
projects with a primary purpose of producing heat (see Request for Applications (RFA) Section
1.5). This is the standard form for all other projects, including projects that will produce heat and
electricity. An electronic version of the RFA and both application forms is available online at:
https://www.akenergyauthority.org/What-We-Do/Grants-Loans/Renewable-Energy-Fund/2022-
REF-Application.
What follows are some basic information and instructions for this application:
• If you are applying for grants for more than one project, provide separate application forms for
each project.
• Multiple phases (e.g. final design, construction) for the same project may be submitted as one
application.
• If you are applying for grant funding for more than one phase of a project, provide milestones
and grant budget for each phase of the project (see Sections 3.1 and 3.2.2).
• In order to ensure that grants provide sufficient benefit to the public, AEA may limit
recommendations for grants to preliminary development phases in accordance with 3 Alaska
Administrative Code (ACC) 107.605(1).
• If some work has already been completed on your project and you are requesting funding for
an advanced phase, submit information sufficient to demonstrate that the preceding phases are
completed and funding for an advanced phase is warranted . Supporting documentation may
include, but is not limite d to, reports, conceptual or final designs, models, photos, maps, proof
of site control, utility agreements, business and operation plans, power sale agreements,
relevant data sets, and other materials. Please provide a list of supporting documents in
Section 11 of this application and attach the documents to your application.
• If you have additional information or reports you would like the Authority to consider in
reviewing your application, either provide an electronic version of the document with your
submission or reference a web link where it can be downloaded or reviewed. Please provide a
list of additional information; including any web links, in Section 12 of this application and attach
the documents to your application. For guidance on application best practices please refer to
the resource-specific Best Practices Checklists; links to the checklists can be found in the
appendices list at the end of the accompanying REF Round 15 RFA.
• In the Sections below, please enter responses in the spaces provided. You may add additional
rows or space to the form to provide sufficient space for the information, or attach additional
sheets if needed.
• If you need assistance with your application, please contact AEA’s Grants Coordinator by email
at grants@akenergyauthority.org or by phone at (907) 771-3081.
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Grant Application – Standard Form
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REMINDER:
• AEA is subject to the Public Records Act AS 40.25, and materials submitted to AEA may be
subject to disclosure requirements under the act if no statutory exemptions apply.
• All applications received will be posted on the Authority web site after final recomme ndations
are made to the legislature. Please submit resumes as separate PDFs if the applicant would
like those excluded from the web posting of this application.
• In accordance with 3 AAC 107.630 (b) Applicants may request trade secrets or proprietary
company data be kept confidential subject to review and approval by AEA. If you want
information to be kept confidential the applicant must:
o Request the information be kept confidential.
o Clearly identify the information that is the trade secret or proprietary in their application.
o Receive concurrence from the Authority that the information will be kept confidential. If
the Authority determines it is not confidential , it will be treated as a public record in
accordance with AS 40.25 or returned to the applicant upon request.
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Grant Application – Standard Form
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SECTION 1 – APPLICANT INFORMATION
Please specify the legal grantee that will own, operate, and maintain the project upon completion .
Name (Name of utility, IPP, local government, or other government entity)
Levelock Village Council
Tax ID # 92-0074206
Date of last financial statement audit:
Mailing Address: Physical Address:
Box 70 401 Main Street
Levelock, AK Levelock, AK
99625-0070 99624
Telephone: Fax: Email:
907-287-3030 907-287-3032 <levelockadmin@bbna.com>
1.1 Applicant Point of Contact / Grants Coordinator
Name: Alexander Tallekpalek Title: Tribal Council President
Mailing Address:
Same as Above
Telephone: Fax: Email:
907-287-3030/ 907-287-6187
907-287-3032
1.1.1 Applicant Signatory Authority Contact Information
Name: Alexander Tallekpalek Title: Tribal Council President
Mailing Address:
Same as above
Telephone: Fax: Email:
Same as above
1.1.2 Applicant Alternate Points of Contact
Name Telephone: Fax: Email:
None at this time
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1.2 Applicant Minimum Requirements
Please check as appropriate. If applicants do not meet the minimum requirements, the application
will be rejected.
1.2.1 Applicant Type
☐ An electric utility holding a certificate of public convenience and necessity under AS 42.05
CPCN #______, or
☐ An independent power producer in accordance with 3 AAC 107.695 (a) (1)
CPCN #______, or
☐ A local government, or
☒ A governmental entity (which includes tribal councils and housing authorities)
Additional minimum requirements
☒ 1.2.2 Attached to this application is formal approval and endorsement for the project by the
applicant’s board of directors, executive management, or other governing authority. If the
applicant is a collaborative grouping, a formal approval from each participant’s gover ning
authority is necessary. (Indicate yes by checking the box)
☒ 1.2.3 As an applicant, we have administrative and financial management systems and follow
procurement standards that comply with the standards set forth in the grant agreement
(Section 3 of the RFA). (Indicate yes by checking the box)
☒ 1.2.4 If awarded the grant, we can comply with all terms and conditions of the award as
identified in the Standard Grant Agreement template at
https://www.akenergyauthority.org/What-We-Do/Grants-Loans/Renewable-Energy-
Fund/2022-REF-Application (Any exceptions should be clearly noted and submitted with the
application.) (Indicate yes by checking the box)
☒ 1.2.5 We intend to own and operate any project that may be constructed with grant funds for
the benefit of the general public. If no please describe the nature of the project and who will
be the primary beneficiaries. (Indicate yes by checking the box)
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SECTION 2 – PROJECT SUMMARY
2.1 Project Title
Provide a 4 to 7 word title for your project. Type in the space below.
Levelock Feasibility and Conceptual Design
2.2 Project Location
2.2.1 Location of Project – Latitude and longitude (preferred), street address, or
community name.
Latitude and longitude coordinates may be obtained from Google Maps by finding you project’s
location on the map and then right clicking with the mouse and selecting “What is here? The
coordinates will be displayed in the Google search window above the map in a format as follows:
61.195676.-149.898663. If you would like a ssistance obtaining this information , please contact
AEA’s Grants Coordinator by email at grants@akenergyauthority.org or by phone at (907) 771-
3081.
Latitude <59°6′37″N 156°51′31″W (59.110141> Longitude 156051'3"W (-
156.858684)
[Other description of location]
Levelock sits on the west bank of the Kvichak River, 18 miles (29 km) north of its mouth
at Kvichak Bayand 47 miles (76 km) by river southwest (downstream) from Igiugig at the outlet
of Iliamna Lake. According to the United States Census Bureau, the Levelock CDP has a total area
of 12.1 square miles (31.3 km), all of it land.
2.2.2 Community benefiting – Name(s) of the community or communities that will be the
beneficiaries of the project.
Levelock, AK
2.3 Project Type
Please check as appropriate.
2.3.1 Renewable Resource Type
☒ Wind ☐ Biomass or Biofuels (excluding heat-only)
☐ Hydro, Including Run of River ☐ Hydrokinetic
☐ Geothermal, Excluding Heat Pumps ☐ Transmission of Renewable Energy
☒ Solar Photovoltaic ☒ Storage of Renewable
☐ Other (Describe) ☐ Small Natural Gas
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2.3.2 Proposed Grant Funded Phase(s) for this Request (Check all that apply)
Pre-Construction Construction
☐ Reconnaissance ☐ Final Design and Permitting
☒ Feasibility and Conceptual Design ☐ Construction
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2.4 Project Description
Provide a brief, one-paragraph description of the proposed project.
As the wind assessment is completed, our community has generally selected a potential wind site,
and is considering different configurations and sites for community solar installations. Our
community members and leaders are ready to develop local renewable energy resources to
reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Funds are being requests from AEA – REF to determine the
feasibility and options for a community based plan. Our goals are to reduce energy costs, reduce
dependence on fossil fuels, and of course building, operating, and maintaining a sustainable
project are all met.
We have determined that wind combined with solar and energy storage has potential to meet all of
our goals. An initial goal for the feasibility project is to create an option for development of a hybrid
energy system that could displace up to 40% of the fuel used for power generation and 20% of the
diesel fuel used for heating.
The Feasibility Study and Conceptual Design are needed to determine the technical options, site
conditions, constructability, issues related to sustainable system operations, and management
and economics.
2.5 Scope of Work
Provide a short narrative for the scope of work detailing the tasks to be performed under this
funding request. This should include work paid for by grant funds and matching funds or performed
as in-kind match.
Final Feasibility Study and Conceptual Design Report will provide a detailed evaluation of the
technical options, economic impacts, and operational and project development viability. The final
report will address all tasks related to available resources, project location and siting details,
market analysis, load profiling, preliminary grid impacts and system upgrades required, as well as
site plans, geotechnical findings/issues, resource production targets, draft operations and
management plans, identification of site control and regulatory issues. The Feasibility Study and
Conceptual Design Report will provide documentation and project descriptions which can serve as
a basis for further project development such as permitting, construction and operations.
Levelock is able to contribute in-kind match for housing and transportation for contractors when
they are on site/in the community. Please see the budget.
2.6 Previous REF Applications for the Project
See Section 1.15 of the RFA for the maximum per project cumulative grant award amount
Round
Submitted
Title of application Application
#, if known
Did you
receive a
grant? Y/N
Amount of REF
grant awarded
($)
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SECTION 3 – Project Management, Development, and Operation
3.1 Schedule and Milestones
Please fill out the schedule below (or attach a similar sheet) for the work covered by this funding request. Be sure to
identify key tasks and decision points, including go/no go decisions, in your project along with estimated start and end
dates for each of the milestones and tasks. Please clearly identify the beginning and ending of all phases (I.
Reconnaissance, II. Feasibility and Conceptual Design, III. Final Design and Permitting, and IV. Construction) of your
proposed project. See the RFA, Sections 2.3-2.6 for the recommended milestones for each phase. Add additional rows
as needed.
Task
# Milestones Tasks
Start
Date
End
Date Deliverables
1 Project scoping:
Establish the basis
for developing a
wind-solar-battery
project.
Description of project
economic objectives
relative to history and
trends of community
energy use and
development.
Collect information
about community –
people and
population, energy
use and production
trends, site
conditions, initial
studies, examination
of historical
operations,
powerhouse, and
distribution
infrastructure –
equipment and
services, near term
and long-term
development plans,
and market issues that
can affect the
potential project
Within 1
month
of start
date
Within 4
months
of start
date
Scoping Report
- Status of the power
system
- Resource evaluation
- Market context for
wind and solar and
battery development
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2 Develop
preliminary project
description:
Describe how the
renewable project
meets the
community’s goals
Develop technical
project descriptions
for:
-Scope
-Performance targets –
-Budget considerations
-Possible options
Within 1
month
of start
date
Within 4
months
of start
date
Preliminary Project Report
-Environmental
-Siting
-Land ownership issues
-Project size and scope
-Operational, financial and
development restrictions
or constraints
3 On-site data
collection:
To identify condition
and characteristics
of the existing
energy system and
the readiness of the
community and
energy system for
renewable
development
Install onsite
monitoring equipment
at the powerhouse to
evaluate
relative wind speed
solar insolation
temperature
electrical load.
Coordinate data with
available geotechnical
engineering data to
evaluate soils for wind
turbine engineering
requirements
Within 2
months
Within 6
months
Current Power System
Report
- Powerplant equipment
-Preliminary Grid and
site map
- Summary monitoring
report correlating
electrical load,
temperature, relative
wind speed and solar
insolation
- Preliminary soil
evaluation
4 Develop and
evaluate proposed
options
Options that
advance renewable
heat, power, and
local transportation
For each option
describe:
-Proposed equipment
-Siting
-Readiness of utility
and power system to
accept renewable
integration
-Sustainability to
operate system
-Initial consultations
with environmental
regulatory agencies
-Identify needed
improvements to
existing power system
Within 4
months
Within
12
months
Options Analysis and
Development Report
-Proposed project scope
-Initial system designs
-Project benefits
-Budgets
-Preferred site and
specific project design
to meet the fuel
displacement and
operational goals of
the community
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5 Detailed evaluation
of technical
options, economic
impacts, and
operational and
project
development
viability to identify
option that best
meets the
community’s most
feasible alternative
Documentation for:
-Available resources
-Project location and
siting details
-Market analysis
-Load profiling
-Preliminary Grid
impacts
-System upgrades
required Within 6
months
Within
15
months
Final Feasibility Analysis
and Conceptual Design
Report
Detail most feasible
alternative/option:
-Resource
-Load
-Market assessments
-Financial and
operation viability
-site plans
-Geotechnical
findings/issues
-Resource production
targets
-Draft operations and
management plans
identify site control
and regulatory issues
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3.2 Budget
3.2.1 Funding Sources
Indicate the funding sources for the phase(s) of the project applied for in this funding request.
Grant funds requested in this application $197,000
Cash match to be provideda $
In-kind match to be provideda $ 9,000
Energy efficiency match providedb $
Total costs for project phase(s) covered in application (sum of
above)
$206,000
Describe your financial commitment to the project and the source(s) of match. Indicate whether
these matching funds are secured or pending future approvals. Describe the impact, if any, that
the timing of additional funds would have on the ability to proceed with the grant.
Levelock is providing in-kind match for housing and transportation when the contractor(s) need to
be on-site.
a Attach documentation for proof (see Section 1.18 of the Request for Applications)
b See Section 8.2 of this application and Section 1.18 of the RFA for requirements for Energy Efficiency
Match.
3.2.2 Cost Overruns
Describe the plan to cover potential cost increases or shortfalls in funding.
The contractor has committed to a fixed amount for the Feasibility Study & Conceptual Design
Report.
3.2.3 Total Project Costs
Indicate the anticipated total cost by phase of the project (including all funding sources). Use actual
costs for completed phases. Indicate if the costs were actual or estimated.
Reconnaissance [Actual/Estimated] $
Feasibility and Conceptual Design [Actual/Estimated] $206,000
Final Design and Permitting [Actual/Estimated] $
Construction [Actual/Estimated] $
Total Project Costs (sum of above) Estimated $
Metering/Tracking Equipment [not included in project
cost]
Estimated $
3.2.4 Funding Subsequent Phases
If subsequent phases are required beyond the phases being applied for in this application,
describe the anticipated source s of funding and the likelihood of receipt of those funds .
• State and/or federal grants
• Loans, bonds, or other financing options
• Additional incentives (i.e. tax credits)
• Additional revenue streams (i.e. green tag sales or other renewable energy subsidies or
programs that might be available)
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3.2.3 Budget Forms
Applications MUST include a separate worksheet for each project phase that was identified in
Section 2.3.2 of this application — I. Reconnaissance, II. Feasibility and Conceptual Design, III.
Final Design and Permitting, and IV. Construction. Please use the tables provided below to detail
your proposed project’s total budget. Be sure to use one table for each phase of your project, and
delete any unnecessary tables. The milestones and tasks should match those listed in 3.1 above.
If you have any question regarding how to prepare these tables or if you need assistance preparing
the application please feel free to contact AEA’s Grants Coordinator by email at
grants@akenergyauthority.org or by phone at (907) 771-3081.
Phase 2 — Feasibility and Conceptual Design
Milestone or Task
Anticipated
Completion
Date
RE- Fund
Grant Funds
Grantee
Matching
Funds
Source of
Matching
Funds:
Cash/In-
kind/Federal
Grants/Other
State
Grants/Other
TOTALS
(List milestones based on
phase and type of project.
See Sections 2.3 thru 2.6 of
the RFA )
$ $ $
1 -Project scoping $28,000 $ $28,000
2 - Develop preliminary
project description $32,000 $ $32,000
3 - On-site data collection
$44,000 $3,500 $47,500
4 - Develop and evaluate
proposed options
$46,000 $3,500 $49,500
5 - Detailed evaluation of
technical options $47,000 $2,000 $49,000
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
TOTALS $ $ $206,000
Budget Categories:
Direct Labor & Benefits $ $ $
Travel & Per Diem $ $9,000 $ 9,000
Equipment $ $ $
Materials & Supplies $ $ $
Contractual Services $197,000 $ $197,000
Construction Services $ $ $
Other $ $ $
TOTALS $ $ $206,000
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3.2.4 Cost Justification
Indicate the source(s) of the cost estimates used for the project budget, including costs for future
phases not included in this application.
Cost Quote from experienced contractor.
3.3 Project Communications
3.3.1 Project Progress Reporting
Describe how you plan to monitor the progress of the project and keep AEA informed of the status.
Who will be responsible for tracking the progress? What tools and methods will be used to track
progress?
The contractor will provide on-going reports to Levelock, based on milestones and
deliverables. Levelock will then provide those deliverables to AEA with a request for cost
reimbursement. Our selected contractor has worked has experience working with communities that
have received AEA-REF grants and understands AEA-REF’s reporting requirements.
3.3.2 Financial Reporting
Describe the controls that will be utilized to ensure that only costs that are reasonable, ordinary
and necessary will be allocated to this project. Also discuss the controls in place that will ensure
that no expenses for overhead, or any other unallowable costs w ill be requested for reimbursement
from the REF Grant Program.
The contractor will provide invoices based on milestones/deliverables to Levelock, and we will
then provide those deliverables to AEA with a request for cost reimbursement.
Only contractor’s cost will be requested from the REF Grant Program.
Pati Crofut, an independent grant administrator, accountant, consultant, and trainer, will also
support our efforts.
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SECTION 4 – QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
4.1 Project Team
Include resumes for known key personnel and contractors, including all functions below, as an
attachment to your application. In the electronic submittal, please submit resumes as separate
PDFs if the applicant would like those excluded from the web postin g of this application.
4.1.1 Project Manager
Indicate who will be managing the project for the Grantee and include contact information. If the
applicant does not have a project manager indicate how you intend to solicit project management
support. If the applicant expects project management assistance from AEA or another government
entity, state that in this section.
Tony D’Aoust (Lead Project Manager and Assessment Specialist) Is responsible for all Milestones being
accomplished. For over 20 years Tony has specialized in remote solar and battery installations and
operations, primarily aboard marine research vessels deployed for 3-6 months at a time. Deciding to
transfer these skills and capabilities to remote communities, Tony is supporting these communities’ efforts
to increase their sustainability by reducing dependence on diesel fuel. His work includes the first ever
installation of Alaska’s coastal remote powered autonomous HF radar system; this design was later
incorporated into similar Antarctica deployment. In addition to being well-versed in remote renewable
energy systems, he has substantial experience working with research teams from universities and federal
agencies requiring detailed documentation of the projects for whic h he is responsible.
Tony will lead the IES team to coordinate feasibility and conceptual design activities by drawing on
experience with over 20 years of experience in remote Alaska. IES intends to establish the same
level of on-going commitment to Napaskiak as it has to other remote, rural communities in Alaska.
(Milestone Tasks 1-5 and Associated Tasks)
4.1.2 Project Accountant
Indicate who will be performing the accounting of this project for the grantee. If the applicant does
not have a project accountant indicate how you intend to soli cit financial accounting support.
Pati Crofut (Grants Manager), Highly experienced rural utility accounting consultant and trainer.
She has been solely responsible for the grant accounting and financial management on numerous
USDA High Energy Cost and US Dept of Energy grants awarded to villages in Western Alaska.
4.1.3 Expertise and Resources
Describe the project team including the applica nt, partners, and contractors.
For each member of the project team, indicate:
• the milestones/tasks in 3.1 they will be responsible for;
• the knowledge, skills, and experience that will be used to successfully deliver the tasks;
• how time and other resource conflicts will be managed to successfully complete the task.
If contractors have not been selected to complete the work, provide reviewers with sufficient detail
to understand the applicant’s capacity to successfully select contractors and manage complex
contracts.
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IES TEAM (Resumes are included in Cost Quote)
Tony D’Aoust (Lead Project Manager and Assessment Specialist) Is responsible for all Milestones being
accomplished. For over 20 years Tony has specialized in remote solar and battery installations and
operations, primarily aboard marine research vessels deployed for 3-6 months at a time. Deciding to
transfer these skills and capabilities to remote communities, Tony is supporting these communities’ efforts
to increase their sustainability by reducing dependence on diesel fuel. His work includes the first ever
installation of Alaska’s coastal remote powered autonomous HF radar system; this design was later
incorporated into similar Antarctica deployment. In addition to being well-versed in remote renewable
energy systems, he has substantial experience working with research teams from universities and federal
agencies requiring detailed documentation of the projects for which he is responsible.
Tony will lead the IES team to coordinate feasibility and conceptual design activities by drawing on
experience with over 20 years of experience in remote Alaska. IES intends to establish the same
level of on-going commitment to Napaskiak as it has to other remote, rural communities in Alaska.
(Milestone Tasks 1-5 and Associated Tasks)
Terrance Meyer, Mechanical Engineer is a veteran of renewable energy having run his own development
company and consulting company as well as working for some of the major players in the field. His inspiration
was hydro power, interned in solar power, grew his career with the wind energy boom, and has supported
community scale and biomass projects. He has participated in assessments for hundreds of renewable
energy projects and various technologies. These include system design, strategic planning, feasibility studies,
due diligence investigations, performance testing, technical and financial analyses, product development
research, market analyses, and patent writing. The projects have been a wide variety of generation
technologies from utility scale to distributed generation and include wind, hydroelectric, biomass, pumped
hydro energy storage, ultracapacitors, batteries, renewable fuels, cogeneration, solar photovoltaic, solar
thermal, hydroelectric, in addition to conventional energy technologies. (Co-Lead for All Milestones and
Associated Tasks)
Pati Crofut (Utility Financial Management Specialist and IES Grant Manager) Responsible for IES
(the contractor) reporting requirements and determination of business operating plans for
standalone community microgrids. Pati has spent the last 20 years of her career as a rural Alaskan
utility accounting consultant and trainer. She has been responsible for assisting communities like
Napaskiak to develop financial accounting and management practices. She provides QuickBooks
training and consulting services to the State of Alaska Department of Commerce & Rural
Development. For the past 5 years, Pati has been IES’s financial operations manager. (All
Milestones and Associated Tasks)
Dale Letourneau (Electrical Engineer), with more than 30 years of electrical and power system
design experience in Alaska. Dale has experience with controls, switchgear, electrical distribution,
and power systems integration design, and has worked with IES over the last 15 years. Specializing
in standalone power energy generation and grid integration. Dale has managed large and small
projects across Alaska, and his projects benefit from his years of practical experience, working
with his family’s electrical business. (Milestones 3, 4 and 5 and Associated Tasks)
Greg Egan (Senior Solar PV Specialist), President of Remote Power, Inc. Fairbanks, Alaska. Greg
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was the first NABCEP certified PV installer in Alaska and a journeyman electrician. Over the last 25
years, Greg has been responsible for the design and installation of hundreds of photovoltaic
power systems for residential, commercial, and industrial applications across the state. It is not
unreasonable to state that Mr. Egan is the most experienced solar designer and installer in Alaska.
This includes the design of the solar power systems and custom array racking that were installed
at the Water Treatment Facilities located in Deering, Kobuk, Noatak, and Noorvik and Shungnak.
(Milestones Milestones 3, 4, and 5 and Associated Tasks: Consultant for Written Documentation)
Ian Knapp (Technical Specialist), Ian skills range from data collection to technical analysis. Ian will be
responsible for data collection, mapping, data analysis, load monitoring, and aggregation of data for
analysis. Ian will develop methods of data collection and analysis. He specializes in control and
communications systems architectures, and maintaining system reliability. (Assistance and support for
Milestones 1 - 5 and Associated Tasks)
Patrick Boonstra (Senior Project Manager. Intelligent Energy Systems, LLC (IES). Patrick is an experienced
and dedicated project manager and operations manager for IES. He has 20+ years of experience bringing
complex, remote projects to successful completion. He has 10 years’ designing, managing, constructing,
and commissioning hybrid microgrid projects. Patrick has a keen sense for the practicalities of remote
construction and this experience is invaluable to plan and develop remote hybrid microgrids from
budgeting, to knowing vendor capabilities to working with subcontractors - including those locally hired
from the remote communities IES works in. In 2022 Patrick led the IES team to complete a similar system in
Kokhanak. This experience is important for efficient installation, integration, and commissioning of the BESS
and ETS units with the wind-diesel system. (Available for all Milestones and Tasks as needed.)
Dennis Meiners (Principal and Founder of Intelligent Energy Systems, LLC (IES). Dennis has 25+ years
developing alternatives to diesel-power generation for remote Alaskan communities. This project will
benefit from Dennis’s many years of experience, and his understanding of the importance of system
practicality, reliability, and ability to support field deployed technology. Over the years, Dennis has
developed IES into one of the most experienced and capable teams of renewable microgrid technologists
and specialists in North America. IES has demonstrated its ability to assist communities to develop high
penetration renewable projects from concept to operations. (Available for all Milestones and Tasks as
needed.)
4.2 Local Workforce
Describe how the project will use local labor or train a local labor workforce.
At the time this application is being made, we don’t have a local workforce identified.
However, our contractor, IES has indicated it would like to use local workforce for data collection and other
assistance, and we will work with them to find appropriate local workers after the award is made.
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SECTION 5 – TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY
5.1 Resource Availability
5.1.1 Assessment of Proposed Energy Resource
Describe the potential extent/amount of the energy resource that is available , including average
resource availability on an annual basis. For pre-construction applications, describe the resource to
the extent known. For design and permitting or construction projects, please provide feasibility
documents, design documents, and permitting documents (if applicable) as attachments to this
application (See Section 11). Likelihood of the resource being available over the life of the project .
See the “Resource Assessment” section of the appropriate Best Practice Checklist for additional
guidance.
Wind resource was completed by V3 Energy, LLC for the Lake and Peninsula Borough in 2017.
Levelock was determined to have a moderate Class 3 wind resource. With a wind turbine such as the
Frontier 24 meter 100 kW turbine on a 50 meter tiltup tower, this resource level offers the potential for
wind power development.
PVWatts from NREL indicates a potential solar resource that a 200 kW system could produce approximately
170,000 kWh.
5.1.2 Alternatives to Proposed Energy Resource
Describe the pros and cons of your proposed energy resource vs. other alternatives that may be
available for the market to be served by your project.
N/A
5.1.3 Permits
Provide the following information as it may relate to permitting and how you intend to address
outstanding permit issues. See the “Environmental and Permitting Risks” section of the appropriate
Best Practice Checklist for additional guidance.
• List of applicable permits
• Anticipated permitting timeline
• Identify and describe potential barriers including potential permit timing issues, public
opposition that may result in difficulty obtaining permits, and other permitting barriers
A primary purpose of this Study is to identify permitting requirements/needs.
5.2 Project Site
Describe the availability of the site and its suitability for the proposed energy system . Identify
potential land ownership issues, including whether site owners have agreed to the project or how
you intend to approach land ownership and access issues. See the “Site control” section of the
appropriate Best Practice Checklist for additional guidance.
A primary purpose of this Study is to identify sites.
5.3 Project Technical & Environmental Risk
5.3.1 Technical Risk
Describe potential technical risks and how you would address them .
• Which tasks are expected to be most challenging?
• How will the project team reduce the risk of these tasks?
• What internal controls will be put in place to limit and deal with technical risks?
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See the “Common Planning Risks” section of the appropriate Best Practice Checklist for additional
guidance.
Technical risks are low.
5.3.2 Environmental Risk
Explain whether the following environmental and land use issues apply, and if so which project
team members will be involved and how the issues will be addressed. See the “Environmental and
Permitting Risks” section of the appropriate Best Practice Checklist for additional guidance.
• Threatened or endangered species
• Habitat issues
• Wetlands and other protected areas
• Archaeological and historical resources
• Land development constraints
• Telecommunications interference
• Aviation considerations
• Visual, aesthetics impacts
• Identify and describe other potential barriers
The final Report will identify these items.
5.4 Technical Feasibility of Proposed Energy System
In this section you will describe and give details of the existing and proposed systems. The
information for existing system will be used as the baseline the proposal is compared to and also
used to make sure that proposed system can be integrated.
Only complete sections applicable to your proposal. If your proposal only generates electricity, you
can remove the sections for thermal (heat) generation.
5.4.1 Basic Operation of Existing Energy System
Describe the basic operation of the existing energy system including: description of control system;
spinning reserve needs and variability in generation (any high loads brought on quickly); and
current voltage, frequency, and outage issues across system. See the “Understanding the Existing
System” section of the appropriate Best Practice Checklist for additional guidance.
Part of the purpose of this Study is to detail the existing energy system.
5.4.2.1 Existing Power Generation Units
Include for each unit include: resource/fuel, make/model, design capacity (kW), minimum
operational load (kW), RPM, electronic/mechanical fuel injection, make/model of genset
controllers, hours on genset
Unit 1:
5.4.2 Existing Energy Generation Infrastructure and Production
In the following tables, only fill in areas below applicable to your project. You can remove extra
tables. If you have the data below in other formats, you can attach them to the application (see
Section 11).
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Unit 2:
Unit 3:
Unit 4:
Unit 5:
Unit 6:
5.4.2.2 Existing Distribution System
Describe the basic elements of the distribution system . Include the capacity of the step-up
transformer at the powerhouse, the distribution voltage(s) across the community, any transmission
voltages, and other elements that will be affected by the proposed project.
5.4.2.3 Existing Thermal Generation Units (if applicable to your project)
Generation
unit
Resource/
Fuel type
Design
capacity
(MMBtu/hr)
Make Model Average
annual
efficiency
Year
Installed
Hours
5.4.2.5 Annual Electricity Production and Fuel Consumption (Existing System)
Use most recent year. Replace the section (Type 1), (Type 2), and (Type 3) with generation
sources
Month Generati
on (Type
1)
(kWh)
Generatio
n (Type 2)
(kWh)
Generatio
n (Type 3)
(kWh)
Fuel
Consumptio
n
(Diesel-
Gallons)
Fuel
Consumptio
n
[Other]
Pea
k
Loa
d
Minimu
m Load
January
February
March
April
May
Is there operational heat recovery? (Y/N) If yes estimated
annual displaced heating fuel (gallons)
5.4.2.4 O&M and replacement costs for
existing units
Power Generation Thermal Generation
i. Annual O&M cost for labor
ii. Annual O&M cost for non-labor
iii. Replacement schedule and cost for
existing units
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June
July
August
Septembe
r
October
November
December
Total
5.4.2.6 Annual Heating Fuel Consumption (Existing System)
Use most recent year. Include only if your project affects the recovered heat off the diesel
genset or will include electric heat loads. Only include heat loads affected by the project.
Month Diesel
(Gallons)
Electricity Propane
(Gallons)
Coal
(Tons)
Wood
(Cords,
green tons,
dry tons)
Other
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Total
5.4.3 Future Trends
Describe the anticipated energy demand in the community, or whatever will be affected by the
project, over the life of the project. Explain how the forecast was developed and provide year by
year forecasts. As appropriate, include expected changes to energ y demand, peak load, seasonal
variations, etc. that will affect the project.
One of the drivers for this effort is the plan to re-open our Fish Processing Plant. The Plant will need
considerable energy. In order for the Plant to be as economical as possible we wish to utilize to the greatest
extent possible, renewable energy. We also need to identify/find a solution to ensure that the community is
not burdened by added energy costs due to the Plant coming back on-line.
5.4.4 Proposed System Design
Provide the following information for the proposed renewable energy system:
• A description of renewable energy technology specific to project location
• The total proposed capacity and a description of how the capacity was determined
• Integration plan, including upgrades needed to existing system(s) to integrate renewable
energy system: Include a description of the controls, storage, secondary loads, distribution
upgrades that will be included in the project
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• Civil infrastructure that will be completed as part of the project —buildings, roads, etc.
• Include what backup and/or supplemental system will be in place
See the “Proposed System Design” section of the appropriate Best Pract ice Checklist for additional
guidance.
The contractor will evaluate wind and solar along with battery storage as possible renewable energy sources
and how they can be integrated with our current diesel system.
The purpose of the study is to develop a conceptual design to allow us to address these items.
5.4.4.1 Proposed Power Generation Units
Unit # Resource/
Fuel type
Design
capacity
(kW)
Make Model Expected
capacity
factor
Expected
life
(years)
Expected
Availability
5.4.4.2 Proposed Thermal Generation Units (if applicable)
Generation
unit
Resource/
Fuel type
Design
capacity
(MMBtu/hr)
Make Model Expected
Average
annual
efficiency
Expected
life
5.4.5 Basic Operation of Proposed Energy System
• To the best extent possible, describe how the proposed energy system will operate: When will
the system operate, how will the system integrate with the existing system, how will the
control systems be used, etc.
• When and how will the backup system(s) be expected to be used
See the “Proposed System Design” section of the appropriate Best Practice Checklist for additional
guidance.
The purpose of the study is to develop a conceptual design to allow us to address these items
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5.4.3.1 Expected Capacity Factor %
5.4.5.2 Annual Electricity Production and Fuel Consumption (Proposed System)
Month Generation
(Proposed
System)
(kWh)
Generation
(Type 2)
(kWh)
Generation
(Type 3)
(kWh)
Fuel
Consumption
(Diesel-
Gallons)
Fuel
Consumption
[Other]
Secondary
load
(kWh)
Storage
(kWh)
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Total
5.4.5.3 Annual Heating Fuel Consumption (Proposed System)
Month Diesel
(Gallons)
Electricity Propane
(Gallons)
Coal
(Tons)
Wood
(Cords,
green tons,
dry tons)
Other
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Total
5.4.6 Proposed System Operating and Maintenance (O&M) Costs
O&M costs can be estimated in two ways for the standard application. Most proposed renewable
energy projects will fall under Option 1 because the new resource will not allow for dies el
generation to be turned off. Some projects may allow for diesel generat ion to be turned off for
periods of time; these projects should choose Option 2 for estimating O&M.
Option 1: Diesel generation ON
$
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For projects that do not result in shutting down
diesel generation there is assumed to be no
impact on the base case O&M. Please indicate
the estimated annual O&M cost associated with
the proposed renewable project.
Option 2: Diesel generation OFF
For projects that will result in shutting down
diesel generation please estimate:
1. Annual non-fuel savings of shutting off
diesel generation
2. Estimated hours that diesel generation
will be off per year.
3. Annual O&M costs associated with the
proposed renewable project.
1. $
2. Hours diesel OFF/year:
3. $
The purpose of the study is to develop a conceptual design to allow us to address these items.
5.4.7 Fuel Costs
Estimate annual cost for all applicable fuel(s) needed to run the proposed system (Year 1 of
operation)
Diesel
(Gallons)
Electricity Propane
(Gallons)
Coal
(Tons)
Wood
Other
Unit cost
($)
Annual
Units
Total
Annual
cost ($)
5.5 Performance and O&M Reporting
For construction projects only
5.5.1 Metering Equipment
Please provide a short narrative, and cost estimate, identifying the metering equipment that will be
used to comply with the operations reporting requirement identified in Section 3.15 of the Request
for Applications.
The purpose of the study is to develop a conceptual design to allow us to address these items
5.5.2 O&M reporting
Please provide a short narrative about the methods that will be used to gather and store reliable
operations and maintenance data , including costs, to comply with the operations reporting
requirement identified in Section 3.15 of the Request for Applications
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SECTION 6 – ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY AND BENEFITS
6.1 Economic Feasibility
6.1.1 Economic Benefit
Annual Lifetime
Anticipated Diesel Fuel Displaced for Power
Generation (gallons)
Anticipated Fuel Displaced for Heat
(gallons)
Total Fuel displaced (gallons)
Anticipated Diesel Fuel Displaced for Power
Generation ($)
Anticipated Fuel Displaced for Heat ($)
Anticipated Power Generation O&M Cost
Savings
Anticipated Thermal Generation O&M Cost
Savings
Total Other costs savings (taxes, insurance,
etc.)
Total Fuel, O&M, and Other Cost Savings
The purpose of the study is to develop a conceptual design to allow us to address these items
6.1.2 Economic Benefit
Explain the economic benefits of your project. Include direct cost savings and other economic
benefits, and how the people of Alaska will benefit from the project. Note that additional revenue
sources (such as tax credits or green tags) to pay for operations and/or financing, will not be
included as economic benefits of the project.
Where appropriate, describe the anticipated energy cost in the community, or whatever will be
affected by the project, over the life of the project. Explain how the forecast was developed and
provide year-by-year forecasts
The economic model used by AEA is avai lable at https://www.akenergyauthority.org/What-We-
Do/Grants-Loans/Renewable-Energy-Fund/2022-REF-Application. This economic model may be
used by applicants but is not required. The final benefit/cost ratio used will be derived from the
AEA model to ensure a level playing field for all applicants. If used, please submit the model with
the application.
The purpose of the study is to develop a conceptual design to allow us to address these items.
One of the drivers for this Study is for economic development and our plan to re -open our Fish Processing
Plant. The Plant will need considerable energy. In order for the Plant to be as economical as possible we wish
to utilize to the greatest extent possible, renewable energy. We also need to identify/find a solution to ensure
that the community is not burdened by added energy costs due to the Plant coming back on-line.
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6.1.3 Economic Risks
Discuss potential issues that could make the project uneconomic to operate and how the project
team will address the issues. Factors may include:
• Low prices for diesel and/or heating oil
• Other projects developed in community
• Reductions in expected energy demand: Is there a risk of an insufficient market for energy
produced over the life of the project.
• Deferred and/or inadequate facility maintenance
• Other factors
This effort will provide insights about Economic Risks.
6.1.4 Public Benefit for Projects with Direct Private Sector Sales
For projects that include direct sales of power to private sector businesses (sawmills, cruise ships,
mines, etc.), please provide a brief description of the direct and indirect public benefits derived from
the project as well as the private sector benefits and complete the table below. S ee Section 1.6 in
the Request for Applications for more information.
Renewable energy resource availability (kWh per month)
Estimated direct sales to private sector businesses (kWh)
Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use at p rivate sector businesses ($)
Estimated sales for use by the Alaskan public (kWh)
Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use by the Alaskan public ($)
6.2 Other Public Benefit
Describe the non-economic public benefits to Alaskans over the lifetime of the project. For the
purpose of evaluating this criterion, public benefits are those benefits that would be considered
unique to a given project and not generic to any renewable resource. For example, decreased
greenhouse gas emission, stable p ricing of fuel source, won’t be considered under this category.
Some examples of other public benefits include:
• The project will result in developing infrastructure (roads, trails, pipes, power lines, etc.) that can
be used for other purposes
• The project will result in a direct long-term increase in jobs (operating, supplying fuel, etc.)
• The project will solve other problems for the community (waste disposal, food security, etc.)
• The project will generate useful information that could be used by the public in other parts of the
state
• The project will promote or sustain long-term commercial economic development for the
community
One of the drivers for this Study is for economic development and our plan to re -open our Fish Processing
Plant. The Plant will need considerable energy. In order for the Plant to be as economical as possible we wish
to utilize to the greatest extent possible, renewable energy. We also need to identify/find a solution to ensure
that the community is not burdened by added energy costs due to the Plant coming back on-line.
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SECTION 7 – SUSTAINABILITY
Describe your plan for operating the completed project so that it will be sustainable throughout its
economic life.
At a minimum for construction projects, a business and operations plan should be attached and the
applicant should describe how it will be implemented. See Section 11.
7.1.1 Operation and Maintenance
Demonstrate the capacity to provide for the long-term operation and maintenance of the proposed
project for its expected life
• Provide examples of success with similar or related long-term operations
• Describe the key personnel that will be available for operating and maintaining the
infrastructure.
• Describe the training plan for existing and future employees to become proficient at operating
and maintaining the proposed system.
• Describe the systems that will be used to track necessary supplies
• Describe the system will be used to ensure that scheduled maintenance is performed
This effort will address O&M.
7.1.2 Financial Sustainability
• Describe the process used (or propose to use) to account for operational and capital costs.
• Describe how rates are determined (or will be determined). What process is required to set
rates?
• Describe how you ensure that revenue is collected.
• If you will not be selling energy, explain how you will ensure that the completed project will be
financially sustainable for its useful life.
This Study will address Financial Sustainability.
7.1.2.1 Revenue Sources
Briefly explain what if any effect your project will have on electrical rates in the proposed benefit
area over the life of the project. If there is expected to be multiple rates for electricity, such as a
separate rate for intermittent heat, explain what the rates will be and how they will be determined
Collect sufficient revenue to cover operational and capital costs
• What is the expected cost-based rate (as consistent with RFA requirements)
• If you expect to have multiple rate classes, such as excess electricity for heat, explain what
those rates are expected to be and how those rates account for the costs of delivering the
energy (see AEA’s white paper on excess electricity for heat).
• Annual customer revenue sufficient to cover costs
• Additional incentives (i.e. tax credits)
• Additional revenue streams (i.e. green tag sales or other renewable energy subsidies or
programs that might be available)
The purpose and part of the challenge of the design is to create a system that does not negatively impact
the residents of Levelock while also providing power for the fish processing plant.
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7.1.2.2 Power Purchase/Sale
The power purchase/sale information should include the following:
• Identification of potential power buyer(s)/customer(s)
• Potential power purchase/sales price - at a minimum indicate a price range (consistent with the
Section 3.16 of the RFA)
Identify the potential power buyer(s)/customer(s) and anticipated power purchase/sales price
range. Indicate the proposed rate of return from the grant -funded project. Include letters of support
or power purchase agreement from identified customers.
Study will address Power Purchase/Sale.
SECTION 8 – PROJECT READINESS
8.1 Project Preparation
Describe what you have done to prepare for this award and how quickly you intend to proceed with
work once your grant is approved.
Specifically address your progress towards or readiness to begin, at a minimum, the following:
• The phase(s) that must be completed prior to beginning the phase(s) proposed in this application
• The phase(s) proposed in this application
• Obtaining all necessary permits
• Securing land access and use for the project
• Procuring all necessary equipment and materials
Refer to the RFA and/or the pre-requisite checklists for the required activities and delive rables for
each project phase. Please describe below and attach any required documentation.
Levelock has been working with the U.S. Dept of Energy-Tribal Office to begin collecting useful information
as a starting point and we have been invited by US Economic Development Administration to submit a
proposal for assistance to re-open our Fish Processing Plant.
8.2 Demand- or Supply-Side Efficiency Upgrades
If you have invested in energy efficiency projects that will have a positive impact on the proposed
project, and have chosen to not include them in the economic analysis, applicants should provide
as much documentation as possible including:
1. Explain how it will improve the success of the RE project
2. Energy efficiency pre and post audit reports, or other appropriate analysis,
3. Invoices for work completed,
4. Photos of the work performed, and/or
5. Any other available verification such as scopes of work, technical drawings, and payroll for
work completed internally.
N/A
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SECTION 9 – LOCAL SUPPORT AND OPPOSITION
Describe local support and opposition, known or anticipated, for the project. Include letters,
resolutions, or other documentation of local support from the community that would benefit from
this project. Provide letters of support, memorandum of understandings, cooperative agreements
between the applicant, the utility, local government and project partners. The documentation of
support must be dated within one year of the RFA date of October 4, 2022. Please note that letters
of support from legislators will not count toward this criterion.
The project is supported by the Village Council and the local Utility, which is owned by the Village.
SECTION 10 – COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER AWARDS
Identify other grants that may have been previously awarded to the Applicant by AEA for this or
any other project. Describe the degree you have been able to meet the requirements of previous
grants including project deadlines, reporting, and information requests .
N/A
SECTION 11 – LIST OF SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION FOR PRIOR PHASES
In the space below, please provide a list of additional documents attached to support completion of
prior phases.
N/A
SECTION 12 – LIST OF ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION SUBMITTED FOR CONSIDERATION
In the space below, please provide a list of additional information submitted for consideration .
Quote from experienced contractor/consultant.
Renewable Energy Fund Round 15
Grant Application ....:. Standard Form
SECTION 13 -AUTHORIZED SIGNERS FORM
ALASKA ENERGY AUTHORITY
Community/Grantee Name: Levelock Village
Regular Election is held: J Date:
I Authorized Grant Signer(s):
Printed Name Title Term Signature
Alexander Tallekpalek Chair
I authorize the above person(s) to sign Grant Documents: Must be authorized by the highest ranking organization/community/municipal official)
Printed Name Title Term Signature
Alexander Tallekpalek
I Grantee Contact Information:
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 70/401 Main Street
Levelock, AK 99625 Phone Number:
(907)287-3030Fax Number:
Email Address: tllkplk@yahoo.com levelockadmin@bbna.com
Federal Tax ID #:
Please submit an updated form whenever there is a change to the above information.
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President
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