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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAPPLICATION - AVEC REF 15 Kalskag ApplicationRenewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 1 of 39 10/04/2022 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) Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. Tax ID # 92-0035763 Not-for-Profit Date of last financial statement audit: December 2021 Mailing Address: Physical Address: 4831 Eagle Street 4831 Eagle Street Anchorage, AK 99503 Anchorage, AK 99503 Telephone: Fax: Email: (907) 561 – 1818 (800) 478 – 1818 fbutton@avec.org 1.1 Applicant Point of Contact / Grants Coordinator Name: Title: Forest Button Manager, Project Development & Key Accounts Mailing Address: 4831 Eagle Street Anchorage, AK 99503 Telephone: Fax: Email: (907) 646 - 5961 (800) 561 - 2388 fbutton@avec.org 1.1.1 Applicant Signatory Authority Contact Information Name: Title: William R. Stamm President and CEO Mailing Address: 4831 Eagle Street Anchorage, AK 99503 Telephone: Fax: Email: (907) 565 - 5351 (800) 562 - 4086 bstamm@avec.org 1.1.2 Applicant Alternate Points of Contact Name Telephone: Fax: Email: Onya Stein (907) 561 – 1818 (800) 478 -1818 ostein@avec.org Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 2 of 39 10/04/2022 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 #169, 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 governing 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) Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 3 of 39 10/04/2022 SECTION 2 – PROJECT SUMMARY 2.1 Project Title Provide a 4 to 7 word title for your project. Type in the space below. Kalskag Wind 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 assistance obtaining this information, please contact AEA’s Grants Coordinator by email at grants@akenergyauthority.org or by phone at (907) 771- 3081. Latitude 61.5371 Longitude -160.3123 Upper Kalskag (Kalskag) is located on the north bank of the Kuskokwim River, 2 miles upriver from Lower Kalskag. It lies 30 miles west of Aniak, 99 miles northeast of Bethel, and 348 miles west of Anchorage. 2.2.2 Community benefiting – Name(s) of the community or communities that will be the beneficiaries of the project. The project will benefit the communities of Upper Kalskag (population of 203 according to 2020 Census) and Lower Kalskag (population of 262 according to 2020 Census) for a total population of 465. Throughout this application, the two communities will be collectively referred to as Kalskag. 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 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 Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 4 of 39 10/04/2022 2.4 Project Description Provide a brief, one-paragraph description of the proposed project. Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. (AVEC) is requesting $267,300 and will provide a match of $29,700 to conduct a wind power feasibility and conceptual design project for the power generation in Upper Kalskag that also serves the community of Lower Kalskag via an intertie. AVEC, with the cooperation of the communities, would assess the feasibility of wind resources suited to provide power to the communities and prepare a conceptual design of a wind facility. 2.5 Scope of Work Provide a short narrative for the scope of work detailing the tasks to be performed under this funding request. This should include work paid for by grant funds and matching funds or performed as in-kind match. AVEC proposes to install and operate a ZX300 wind LIDAR profiler to collect and analyze wind data, complete a reconnaissance-level geotechnical effort, and work with Kalskag to determine the feasibility, location, turbine type, and conceptual design of a wind project. AVEC would then use the feasibility study to examine the potential for wind energy production to serve the communities. The effort would culminate in a Conceptual Design Report (CDR), including an alternatives evaluation and conceptual design, that could be used to seek future wind turbine construction funding. 2.6 Previous REF Applications for the Project See Section 1.15 of the RFA for the maximum per project cumulative grant award amount Round Submitted Title of application Application #, if known Did you receive a grant? Y/N Amount of REF grant awarded ($) N/A Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 5 of 39 10/04/2022 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 and contractor solicitation AVEC would select contractor(s) for the wind feasibility, geotechnical analysis, and CDR immediately following AEA’s authorization to proceed. Aug 1, 2023 Aug 15, 2023 Contracts/ task Orders 2 Resource identification and detailed resource analysis AVEC would purchase, ship, and install a ZX 300 Wind LIDAR station to bring online promptly in fall 2023. AVEC will identify the LIDAR station site and obtain a letter of non- objection from the landowner, along with any other approvals from permitting agencies before the grant is awarded to expedite the start of data collection. AVEC would operate and monitor the LIDAR station for one year, after which it would be dismantled. A wind resource report would be drafted immediately following completion of data collection. Sep 15, 2023 Oct 31, 2024 Wind Resource Analysis Report and Preliminary Geotechnical Report 3 Identification of land and regulatory issues If needed, AVEC would obtain a letter of non-objection for the placement of the LIDAR station and geotechnical work. Based on the outcome of the wind study and meteorological data analysis, AVEC would identify a site for constructing wind infrastructure and initiate negotiations for site control for turbine placement. Sep 1, 2023 Jun 1, 2024 Site Control Agreement for LIDAR station Section in the CDR Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 6 of 39 10/04/2022 4 Permitting and environmental analysis AVEC would research and conduct consultations with agencies to determine needed environmental permits for construction of the project. Sep 15, 2024 Dec 15, 2024 Section in the CDR 5 Detailed analysis of current cost of energy and future market AVEC would analyze the existing and future energy costs and markets in Kalskag. The information would be based on AVEC records and community plans. Community meetings would help determine future energy markets. Information regarding energy markets would be incorporated into the CDR. Feb 1, 2024 Mar 30, 2024 Section in the CDR 6 Assessment of alternatives AVEC would review turbine types and turbine locations to determine a recommended location and turbine system best suited for local conditions and community preferences. AVEC would also review wind- to-heat location possibilities and determine recommended systems to provide heat from wind power, if feasible. May 1, 2023 Sep 30, 2024 Section in the CDR 7 Conceptual design report and costs estimate AVEC would examine various wind turbines to determine the best suited system to fit the energy demand and existing energy generation system in Kalskag. The reconnaissance level geotechnical study will support a conceptual design and cost estimate which will be included in the CDR. Sep 1, 2024 Nov 1, 2024 Conceptual Design Report and Cost Estimate 8 Detailed economic and financial analyses AVEC would conduct an economic and financial analysis by examining potential final design and construction, operating and maintenance costs, user rates, and other fiscal components. This analysis will be included in the CDR. Jun 1, 2024 Aug 30, 2024 Section in the CDR 9 Conceptual business and operations plan As a utility cooperative, AVEC has business and operation plans currently in place for the cooperative as a whole. Operating and business plans Aug 1, 2024 Dec 15, 2024 Section in CDR Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 7 of 39 10/04/2022 may be updated to include wind energy. 10 Final report and recommendations AVEC would combine all of the memoranda and reports written for the project in a final report for submission to AEA. The Final CDR will include the following information: • Wind Resource Analysis • Site Control Agreements Needs • Existing and Future Energy Costs and Markets Analysis • Economic and Financial Analysis • Geotechnical Report • Conceptual Design Report and Cost Estimate, including turbine evaluation Sep 15, 2024 Dec 31, 2024 Final Conceptual Design Report 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 $267,300 Cash match to be provideda $29,700 In-kind match to be provideda $0 Energy efficiency match providedb $0 Total costs for project phase(s) covered in application (sum of above) $297,000 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. AVEC will commit a 10% cash contribution ($29,700) of the total cost ($297,000) of the Kalskag Wind Feasibility and Conceptual Design Study. 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. AVEC does not anticipate any cost increases or shortfalls in funding, basing the project budget on years of experience conducting wind feasibility studies for comparable communities in Alaska. However, cost overruns do happen – particularly in rural Alaska where extreme weather or logistical obstacles beyond AVEC’s control can increase the justified cost estimates. Should the project experience a funding issue, AVEC will seek alternative funding or allocate a larger cash Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 8 of 39 10/04/2022 match contribution. If needed, AVEC will cover any cost increase or shortfall in funding necessary to complete a started project. 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 Estimated $0 Feasibility and Conceptual Design Estimated $297,000 Final Design and Permitting Estimated $350,000 Construction Estimated $5,000,000 Total Project Costs (sum of above) Estimated $5,647,000 Metering/Tracking Equipment [not included in project cost] Estimated $400-1000 (pending results of feasibility study) 3.2.4 Funding Subsequent Phases If subsequent phases are required beyond the phases being applied for in this application, describe the anticipated sources 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) Assuming wind energy proves to be a viable local energy resource and following successful completion of the Kalskag Wind Energy Feasibility Study, AVEC will proceed with seeking funding for final design and project construction. Although the proposed feasibility study and CDR will be used to determine type, size, and number of turbines needed and subsequent costs, AVEC anticipates that final design and construction of a wind energy system in Kalskag will cost about $350,000 and $5 million respectively, for a total cost of approximately $5,647,000. Recognizing the trend AEA has established for encouraging other-than-REF funds for construction phase projects, AVEC will research and apply for federal grants or grant/loan funds for the construction phase of this project. Priorities of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) include investment in renewable energy, and completing feasibility work for Kalskag now will position AVEC and the community to take advantage of the upcoming federal infrastructure funding with a fully planned and competitive project. Other grant opportunities include the USDA Rural Utilities Service program and other state or federal grant programs. AVEC expects to provide a 10% cash match for the final design and construction phases of the Kalskag wind project. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 9 of 39 10/04/2022 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 1. Project scoping and contractor solicitation Aug 15, 2023 $2,700 $300 Cash $3,000 2. Resource identification and detailed resource analysis Oct 31, 2024 $144,000 $16,000 Cash $160,000 3. Identification of land and regulatory issues Jun 1, 2024 $4,500 $500 Cash $5,000 4. Permitting and environmental analysis Dec 15, 2024 $4,500 $500 Cash $5,000 5. Detailed analysis of current cost of energy and future market Mar 30, 2024 $6,300 $700 Cash $7,000 6. Assessment of alternatives Sep 30, 2024 $27,000 $3,000 Cash $30,000 7. Conceptual design report and costs estimate Nov 1, 2024 $29,700 $3,300 Cash $33,000 8. Detailed economic and financial analyses Aug 30, 2024 $9,000 $1,000 Cash $10,000 9. Conceptual business and operations plan Dec 15, 2024 $4,500 $500 Cash $5,000 10. Final report and recommendations Dec 31, 2024 $35,100 $3,900 Cash $39,000 TOTALS $267,300 $29,700 $297,000 Budget Categories: Direct Labor & Benefits $30,600 $3,400 Cash $34,000 Travel & Per Diem $9,000 $1,000 Cash $10,000 Equipment $117,000 $13,000 Cash $130,000 Materials & Supplies $0 $0 -- $ 0 Contractual Services $110,700 $12,300 Cash $123,000 Construction Services $0 $0 -- $ 0 Other $0 $0 -- $ 0 TOTALS $267,300 $29,700 $297,000 Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 10 of 39 10/04/2022 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. AVEC based the proposed project budget for this grant application and estimates for subsequent phases on experiences developing wind energy in rural Alaska. AVEC has successfully completed wind resource feasibility studies and wind energy infrastructure projects in multiple remote Alaska communities, including comparable projects in St. Mary’s, Emmonak, Stebbins, Bethel, and Mekoryuk. Costs for final design and construction are based on lessons learned from recent projects including St. Mary’s, Stebbins, Emmonak, Mekoryuk, and Bethel. In addition, AVEC’s ample in-house knowledge of rural Alaska construction projects, wind turbine technologies, logistics, and the existing wind and construction market have helped to determine potential future costs. . 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? AVEC has systems in place to accomplish reporting requirements successfully. AVEC has received funding and successfully administered grants from AEA, Denali Commission, US Department of Agriculture, and US Department of Energy, completing more than 100 major projects in its service area over the last 20 years. The project will be managed out of AVEC’s Project Development and Key Accounts Department. For financial reporting, the department’s accountant, supported by the Administrative Services Department, will prepare financial reports. The accountant will be responsible for ensuring that vendor invoices and internal labor charges are documented in accordance with AEA guidelines and are included with financial reports. AVEC has sophisticated systems in place for accounting, payables, financial reporting, and capitalization of assets in accordance with the State of Alaska’s guidelines. AVEC will require that monthly written progress reports be provided with each invoice submitted from primary contractor(s). The progress reports will include a summary of tasks completed, issues or problems experienced, upcoming tasks, and contractor’s needs from AVEC. Project progress reports will be collected, combined, and supplemented as necessary and forwarded as one package to the AEA project manager each quarter. Because AVEC is responsible to its member communities and a board of directors, staying on schedule and within budget is essential. This project will result in an analysis and recommendation of a renewable energy from a wind farm and decreasing electricity costs in a rural, isolated, and impoverished community. Kalskag residents are interested in this project because their energy costs can be a large portion of their budgets. Residents will expect status updates on this project, including when and what work will occur, who will be involved, and when it will be completed. Community members will be able to contact AVEC’s President and CEO and Board of Directors directly if they have an inquiry or concern about a project. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 11 of 39 10/04/2022 An independent auditor’s report on compliance for each major federal program and report on internal control over compliance required by Title 2 CFR 200 (Uniform Guidance) for AVEC in 2021 did not identify any deficiencies in internal control the auditor considered to be a material weakness. In addition, the independent auditor’s report on compliance with aspects of contractual agreements and regulatory requirements for AVEC in 2021 stated that nothing indicated AVEC failed to comply with the terms, covenants, provisions, or conditions of loans, grants, and security instruments as specified in 7 CFR part 1773. A copy of AVEC’s audit is available upon request. Quarterly meetings will occur between AVEC and AEA to discuss the status of all projects funded through the AEA Renewable Energy Grants program. Individual project meetings will be held, as required or requested by AEA. Forest Button will be responsible for tracking progress of project communications, and Onya Stein, may be contacted as an alternative project manager. 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 will be requested for reimbursement from the REF Grant Program. AVEC’s accounting system consists of software, procedures, and controls driven by the daily inputs and other actions of competent employees throughout the organization. The software is comprised of a comprehensive suite of Daffron-brand modules including accounting (payables/payroll/general ledger), work orders, purchase orders, customer service and billing, and warehouse/inventory. Some ancillary functions are accomplished on spreadsheets with data downloaded from the various Daffron modules. Procedures and controls include but are not limited to adequate separation of duties, manager- level approval of all expenditures, CEO-level approval of all major expenditures, a formal purchasing system (including purchase orders) for acquisition of materials and components, and a formal contracting system for acquisition of contractual services (consultants, construction contractors, etc.). Accounts payable are processed and recorded by the AVEC Accounting Department, all expenditures are coded to budget categories and assigned to appropriate work orders. The Project Development and Key Accounts Department, particularly its Manager, Assistant Project Manager, and Grant Accountant/Administrator are primarily responsible for all grant reporting. AVEC’s team, with years of experience and knowledge of managing AEA-funded project costs and grant reimbursements, has a system in place for ensuring that only costs that are reasonable, ordinary, and necessary are charged to a project, and that only costs that are eligible are submitted for reimbursement. First, AVEC’s Assistant Project Manager (PM) is responsible for determining whether costs are appropriate and acceptable. The PM reviews all invoices from contractors and vendors and all in-house labor and equipment charges. Second, the Project Development and Key Accounts Department Manager (DM) reviews costs associated with outsourced services, including consultant and contractor invoices, to ensure that the charges are reasonable. The DM also reviews his department’s staff labor charges (timesheets) to the project. Third, the Operations and Engineering Department Managers review all in-house labor (timesheets) and expense reports for their respective departments to make sure that the charges are acceptable. Finally, the Project Development and Key Accounts Department Grant Accountant/Administrator, while preparing AEA Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 12 of 39 10/04/2022 financial reports and reimbursement requests, provides a review of both outsourced and in-house charges to determine whether they are allowable costs. AVEC has systems in place to keep unacceptable overhead costs from being charged to and reimbursed through the REF Grant Fund Program. Upon project initiation, an AVEC work order number is created to track all project labor and expenses. AVEC staff and contractors reference this number on all timesheets and invoices when working on the project, ensuring that project costs are known. Purchase orders are universally used to establish spending limits for purchases of materials, which are then monitored by the Accounting Department through the enterprise accounting system. Task orders and contracts are universally used to establish spending limits for purchases of contractual services, which are then monitored by the Project Development and Key Accounts Department utilizing spreadsheets. Direct labor expenses (gross payroll) are tracked separately from overhead costs including employee benefits and payroll taxes. Once labor hours have been calculated, overhead including employee benefits and payroll taxes are applied in a separate transaction on the work order. AVEC and AEA have an agreed rate cap for employer costs of payroll, consisting only of employee benefits and payroll taxes. AVEC can ensure that only allowable costs would be requested for reimbursement because the direct labor and indirect/overhead costs are separate transactions (and thus the indirect/overhead amounts can be easily omitted from reimbursement), and because the allowable rate has been established and agreed upon (and thus can be easily included for reimbursement). Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 13 of 39 10/04/2022 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 posting 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. Forest Button is the Project Manager and has served as manager of the Project Development and Key Accounts Department for AVEC since 2016 where he leads a team focused on stabilizing the cost of energy in rural Alaskan villages through improved power plant efficiency, renewable power generation, wind to heat, recovered heat, and interties between villages. Previously, Mr. Button worked as a project manager under contract to AVEC. He was responsible for the management of the design and construction of capital projects and has 25 years of experience managing construction projects throughout Alaska. Mr. Button has a degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. 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 solicit financial accounting support. Rebecca Lopez is the Chief Financial Officer at AVEC, which includes the Accounting, Purchasing, IT, and Human Resources Departments. Ms. Lopez has more than 9 years of experience in the Alaska electric utility industry and joined AVEC in 2021. She is responsible for all administrative and financial records including preparing grant reports, Regulatory Commission of Alaska rate filings, financial forecasts, budgets and PCE, as well as overseeing the day-to-day office operations. 4.1.3 Expertise and Resources Describe the project team including the applicant, 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. AVEC would use a project management approach that has been used to successfully design and construct wind turbines throughout rural Alaska: a team of AVEC staff and external consultants. AVEC staff and their role on this project includes: • Bill Stamm, President and Chief Executive Officer, would act as Project Executive and will maintain ultimate programmatic and financial authority. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 14 of 39 10/04/2022 • Forest Button, Manager, Project Development and Key Accounts, would lead the project management team consisting of AVEC staff, consultants, and contractors. Mr. Button will be the program manager for this project and will assign an assistant project manager to implement the project. He will also be responsible for reporting directly to AEA on the status of the project. Together with the Assistant Project Manager, Forest would coordinate the wind data analysis, geotechnical work, conceptual design, and the concept design report. • Onya Stein, Assistant Project Manager. will assist on all milestones of the project. In particular, she will be responsible for managing the consultant team. Onya would ensure that all milestones and tasks are completed. Specifically, she would be responsible for selecting, coordinating, and managing the wind resource specialist, engineers, and permitting consultants and ensuring that their deliverables are on time and within budget. • Daniel Allis, Manager of Operations, would provide oversight and input in planning for construction, distribution, and energy generation components of the project. Specifically, he would provide input on analysis of current cost (milestone 5); the assessment of alternatives (milestone 6); the CDR (milestone 7); and the final report (milestone 10). • Darren Westby, Manager of Engineering, would provide technical assistance and information on the existing power system, possible issues, and project study needs. Specifically, Darren would provide input on the detailed resource analysis (milestone 2); analysis of current cost (milestone 5); the assessment of alternatives (milestone 6); the CDR (milestone 7); and the final report (milestone 10). • Rebecca Lopez, Chief Financial Officer, would assist with questions arising out of the economic and financial analysis (milestone 8) and the business and operations plan (milestone 9). In addition, related to grant management, she would provide support in accounting, payables, financial reporting, and capitalization of assets in accordance with AEA guidelines. • Anna Sattler, Community Liaison, would communicate directly with Kalskag residents to ensure that the community is informed. Specifically, Anna would assist by working with the community on identification of land issues (milestone 3); assessment of alternatives (milestone 6); and relaying information and recommendations from the CDR (milestone 7 and 10). It is likely that one of AVEC’s in-house engineering contractors would lead the work. They would be responsible for: • Obtaining site control/access and permits for geotechnical work (milestone 2) • Selecting, coordinating, and managing the wind resource, geotechnical, engineering, and permitting consultants and ensuring that deliverables are on time and within budget (milestones 2, 3, and 4) • Prepare the CDR and cost estimates (milestone 7) • Develop the existing and future energy costs and markets information and the conceptual business and operating plan (milestone 8 and 9) Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 15 of 39 10/04/2022 Contractors for this project would include: • Wind Resource Consultant. AVEC would seek a consultant best suited for assisting with this effort based on experience in Alaska. This consultant would: - Draft the wind resource report (milestone 2) • Geotechnical consultant: AVEC would select and employ an experienced geotechnical consultant who would: - Conduct a reconnaissance level geotechnical and natural hazards field study and report of the project area (milestone 2) • Engineering consultant: AVEC would select and employ an engineering consultant who would: - Provide conceptual design and engineering specifications for the wind turbines and reporting the information in the CDR and final report (Milestone 7 and 10) • Environmental Consultant: AVEC currently has an on-call contract with Solstice Alaska Consulting, Inc. for environmental permitting. Robin Reich’s (Solstice’s president) resume is attached. Solstice would: - Consult with agencies - Document permit needs and environmental requirements for a future wind project (milestone 4) Selection Process for Contractors: The geotechnical and engineering consultant selection would be based upon technical competencies, past performance, written proposal quality, cost, and general consensus from an internal AVEC technical steering committee. The selection of the consultant would occur in strict conformity with AVEC’s procurement policies, conformance with OMB circulars, and DCAA principles. Resumes for key staff, partners, and consultants can be found attached in Tab A. 4.2 Local Workforce Describe how the project will use local labor or train a local labor workforce. Recognizing that local labor boosts communities and families, AVEC uses local labor whenever possible for daily operations and special projects. Local wages circulate, often multiple times, within the community thereby benefitting the community as a whole. AVEC is very proud of its training program wherein power plant operators are trained by an itinerant training supervisor who travels continuously to AVEC communities and works one-on-one with the operators as needed and throughout the year. Local labor saves money as demonstrated when comparing local labor wages against imported labor wages, travel, and per diem. Therefore, AVEC addresses local labor in its bid documents as appropriate and allowed by law. For this feasibility effort, it is expected that local labor could assist with some aspects of the project including helping to determine a suitable location to set up the LIDAR station, setting up the LIDAR station, downloading data, and demobilizing the station. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 16 of 39 10/04/2022 Assuming the proposed wind feasibility study shows wind to be a viable resource in Upper Kalskag, AVEC could include language similar to below in the construction bid documents and contract. AVEC has included the following language in bid documents in the past: “Local Labor and Local Firms Participation Goal: The participation goal for this project has been established as a percentage of the total dollar amount awarded to the successful bidder in the amount of 20% to local labor and local firms. The successful bidder shall provide the Owner documentation to demonstrate compliance with this goal. If this goal cannot be reached and good faith efforts were demonstrated through documentation to the Owner, the Owner has the right to issue a variance to this section.” “Use of Local Labor and Local Firms: To the maximum extent practicable, Contractor shall accomplish the Project using local labor and Alaska firms.” In most AVEC communities, Upper Kalskag being one of them, the power plant operators are employees of their city government. Through a contract process, AVEC reimburses the city for the wages and fringe benefits of the power plant operators. During project feasibility, design, and construction phases, plant operators provide necessary assistance; typically, with tasks like taking photographs, and hosting and assisting engineers and others coming into the community for project work. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 17 of 39 10/04/2022 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. According to existing knowledge and wind feasibility studies and the operational wind turbine in nearby Bethel, it is assumed Upper Kalskag is rated as a class 6 wind regime. The purpose of the feasibility study is to collect local wind data and conduct a thorough analysis to determine the wind energy potential in the community. The proposed feasibility study will identify a potential wind farm location, turbine, and method of operation to maximize the renewable capacity factor while maintaining power quality for the community. 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. Wind energy has proven a viable energy resource in 12 AVEC communities with similar environmental and climate conditions, including St. Mary’s, Bethel, Mekoryuk, and Emmonak. Barging in diesel fuel is the primary source of local power, which is costly. Other alternative energy resources (solar, hydroelectric, and geothermal) are not anticipated to be as cost effective or viable as wind energy. 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 FAA Air Navigation Hazard Permitting: The LIDAR station placement would be selected based on airspace availability and limitations for a future wind turbine to meet the FAA’s Notice Criteria. If the project proves to be feasible, AVEC would seek a no-hazard determination from FAA for the potential project after the turbine location and type have been finalized. Endangered Species Act/Migratory Bird Treaty Act Consultation: Consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in compliance with the Endangered Species Act and Migratory Bird Treaty Act would not be required for a LIDAR station. AVEC would begin discussions with USFWS during this phase to determine whether there are wildlife or habitat issues with a future wind project. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 18 of 39 10/04/2022 Clean Water Act (Section 401) Permit: Because many locations within Kalskag are wetlands, it is possible that a wetlands permit would be needed from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to install the temporary LIDAR station and to conduct geotechnical work. However, the footprint of the ZX300 LIDAR station is small compared to traditional met towers and a permit is not anticipated. During this phase, AVEC would determine whether a future wind farm would have wetlands impacts to determine needed permitting requirements. 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. AVEC has not determined the exact location for the placement of the LIDAR station but expects to place it fenced within the AVEC plant. AVEC will consult with the Kalskag residents and landowners to select a site and to obtain site control for placement of the LIDAR station and geotechnical fieldwork. A letter of non-objection or another approval will be sought from the landowner, depending on location, after project funding is assured. Starting with a community meeting to announce that the project has been funded, AVEC’s community liaison will lead the effort to gain site control. Since the community supports the project (see attached letters of support, Tab B), site control is not expected to be an obstacle to the placement of the LIDAR station and in conducting geotechnical fieldwork. The feasibility study and geotechnical analysis of this project will help AVEC determine a permanent location for a turbine in the future. 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? See the “Common Planning Risks” section of the appropriate Best Practice Checklist for additional guidance. The feasibility effort will help to identify and overcome the few technical risks that might be expected with the implementation of a wind project in Kalskag. Some initial challenges that AVEC will overcome could be: Site Control/Access: Sometimes site control for the placement of study sites or turbines is difficult; however, because the community supports the project (see letters of support), it is not expected that gaining site control would be difficult. See discussion above. Turbine Selection: AVEC will have to identify a suitable turbine which will involve AVEC managers, consultants, and the community working together to determine the best choice for the system’s needs. Weather: Weather could delay geotechnical fieldwork and/or the installation of the LIDAR station; however, experienced consultants and contractors, familiar with Alaska weather conditions, would be selected to do this work. It is unlikely that a delay in the total project schedule would occur if the Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 19 of 39 10/04/2022 fieldwork or the LIDAR station start up is delayed. It is possible to mobilize and start the LIDAR station during winter months, and the station would be installed to handle Kalskag’s winter weather conditions. The LIDAR station would be monitored by local AVEC personnel to ensure it is up and functioning properly throughout the year. 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 During the final design and permitting phases, once the wind project is better scoped, AVEC would work with agencies to address the following potential environmental issues: Threatened or endangered species: According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Anchorage Field Office, Section 7 Consultation Guide, there are no endangered species or federally designated critical habitat areas listed in Kalskag. Wood bison are listed as a threatened species in the area, but the proposed wind project is not anticipated to impact wood bison. Habitat issues: This proposed wind feasibility project would not have habitat impacts. During future permitting efforts, the project team would work with agencies to ensure that the project would not impact any State refuges, sanctuaries or critical habitat areas, federal refuges or wilderness areas, or national parks. Wetlands and other protected areas: As previously mentioned, it is likely that a non-reporting “Nationwide Permit” would be sufficient if the LIDAR station is placed in wetlands, and no application/preconstruction notice would be needed. During this feasibility phase, AVEC would determine whether a future wind farm would have wetlands impacts and determine needed permitting requirements. Archaeological and historical resources: Compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act and consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer would be during the design phase if a wind project proves feasible. Land development constraints: No land development constraints have been identified; however, if any should arise, AVEC will work with the landowners to obtain site control. Telecommunications interference: The LIDAR station and wind project would be placed in a location that would not interfere with the telecommunications service. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 20 of 39 10/04/2022 Aviation considerations: Unlike a met tower, the LIDAR station placement would not have aviation airspace issue. The LIDAR station location, however, would be selected based on a future turbine’s airspace availability and limitations to meet the FAA’s Notice Criteria. Visual, aesthetics impacts: AVEC will conduct community meetings to discuss possible visual impacts of a potential future wind farm and how they could be mitigated. 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. The existing power generation system in Kalskag consists of 3 diesel generators in a three-phase electrical system. A 236 kilowatt (kW) Detroit Diesel S60K4 1200 RPM is in the first position and was installed in 2004. A 363 kW Detroit Diesel S60K4 1800 RPM is in the second position and was installed in 2021. A 499 kW Cummins QSX15 G9 engine is in the third position and was installed in 2004. The most efficient available engine is used to meet the load through automated controls. Individual generator efficiency is not tracked, but the aggregate diesel generator efficiency in 2021 was 13.7 kilowatt hours per gallon (kWh/gallon). 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: Diesel generator, Detroit Diesel S60K4 Engine, 236 kilowatt (kW), 50 kW min, 1200 RPM, electronic fuel injection (FI), NEW HC 66G Generator, 52,198 hours, installed 2004 Unit 2: Diesel generator, Detroit Diesel S60K4 Engine, 363 kilowatt (kW), 50 kW min, 1800 RPM, electronic fuel injection (FI), MAR 572 RSL 4027 Generator, 12,851 hours, installed 2021 Unit 3: Diesel generator, Cummins QSX15 G9 Engine, 499 kilowatt (kW), 50 kW min, 1800 RPM, electronic fuel injection (FI), NEW HC 54F Generator, 8,679 hours, installed 2004 5.4.2.2 Existing Distribution System 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). Is there operational heat recovery? (Y/N) If yes estimated annual displaced heating fuel (gallons) No operational heat recovery. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 21 of 39 10/04/2022 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. The Upper Kalskag power plant generates at 277/480V three phase. There are six distribution feeder breakers, four are in use and two are spare. Three of the feeder breakers feed three each 100 kVA step up transformers. One feeder breaker feeds three each 50 kVA step up transformers. Voltage is 7200/12470 GNRDY. All distribution is overhead. The Upper Kalskag power plant serves Lower Kalskag through the one-half mile intertie. There is three phase service to the school, airport, lift station, and water treatment plant, and single phase service to residential areas in Upper and Lower Kalskag. 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 N/A 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 Generation (Diesel) (kWh) Fuel Consumption (Diesel- Gallons) Fuel Consumption [Other] Peak Load Minimum Load (assumed half of average load) January 143,275 10,164 N/A 296.0 148.0 February 154,210 11,056 308.0 154.0 March 154,978 10,950 326.0 163.0 April 134,936 9,718 290.0 145.0 May 103,448 7,598 162.0 81.0 June 104,309 7,884 222.0 111.0 July 95,942 7,267 214.0 107.0 August 106,362 8,047 211.0 105.5 September 111,103 8,362 243.0 121.5 October 116,010 8,574 270.0 135.0 November 166,937 12,012 342.0 171.0 December 153,755 10,962 341.0 170.5 5.4.2.4 O&M and replacement costs for existing units Power Generation Thermal Generation i. Annual O&M cost for labor $28,000 Based on AVEC aggregate number ii. Annual O&M cost for non-labor iii. Replacement schedule and cost for existing units Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 22 of 39 10/04/2022 Total 1,545,265 112,594 Average 268.8 134.4 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 N/A 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 energy demand, peak load, seasonal variations, etc. that will affect the project. According to U.S. Census data, the populations of Upper and Lower Kalskag have remained steady for the past ten years (combined pop. 484 in 2010 to pop. 490 in 2020), suggesting trends in energy demands for the existing diesel generator system will stay the same. Additional information will be gathered during CDR phase to more accurately determine future trends. Currently, major projects and increases in population are not planned or expected in Upper or Lower Kalskag. Given recent infrastructure funding opportunities for improved broadband services, Kalskag could receive better internet service in the future which would increase energy demand and peak loads could moderately increase in the foreseeable future due to more electronics used. Diesel energy costs in Kalskag are high. Power costs for residences and community facilities are stabilized through Alaska’s Power Cost Equalization (PCE) program. For 2022 so far, the average monthly cost of power before the PCE is $285, and with the PCE subsidy, the average monthly cost was $193. With a median household income of $33,250 in Lower Kalskag and $41,250 in Upper Kalskag, these costs represent approximately 7% of a household’s income. Future wind energy development could be used to reduce the cost of energy and offset energy production from diesel fuel. 5.4.4 Proposed System Design Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 23 of 39 10/04/2022 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  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 Practice Checklist for additional guidance. Renewable energy technology: Understanding that nearby Saint Mary’s has a Class 6 wind regime, AVEC plans to conduct a feasibility analysis, resource assessment, and conceptual design to assess the possibility of also using wind power in Kalskag. This feasibility study is intended to determine how a wind energy project could be properly integrated into the existing power system and what modifications would be required to have a meaningful impact on diesel consumption. If the wind resource proves suitable and funding is obtained, wind turbines would be installed to serve the communities. Proposed capacity/capacity determination: Anticipated capacity and generation would be examined to determine the best turbine option and number, secondary load options, and control schemes for the community. A primary goal of this feasibility study is to evaluate the economic benefit of large capacity wind generation relative to the size of the grid. Currently, AVEC anticipates that three 100-kW NPS wind turbines would be installed, similar to AVEC’s turbine in Emmonak and Mekoryuk. AVEC’s past experience implementing the 100-kW NPS turbines is field proven to be exceptionally reliable in the harsh weather conditions. The 100-kW turbine is the smallest size manufactured by NPS, the generator can reliably curtail and export power below its rated power curve through Northwind’s advanced technology utilizing direct drive, variable pitch blades and fully inverted power output. The proposed feasibility study will help AVEC better estimate the total annual power generation expected for Kalskag’s wind conditions and optimize the size of components for wind generation, energy storage and dispatchable loads for the community. For the economic evaluation of this application three 100-kW NPSs were selected and a capacity factor of 24% was applied. This feasibility study will help AVEC better understand the monthly generation potential for wind, how that compares to the varying monthly load of the community, and the potential opportunities for dispatchable loads for heat, energy storage, or other beneficial electrification. Integration plan: In every deployment, the integration of intermittent generation to the energy grid is a key component to a successful project. The purpose of this feasibility work is to plan a future wind facility and its integration. AVEC expects that the wind turbines would connect to the existing diesel power plant via existing and possibly new transmission lines. During development of the CDR, AVEC would examine whether and what upgrades to the power plant would be needed to incorporate wind energy, including supervisory controls to interface with the power plant, controls for the diesel engines, and controls on the wind turbine to ensure optimal power production and generator efficiency. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 24 of 39 10/04/2022 There are a number of community buildings that might be able to accept wind-to-heat, including the school. The proposed feasibility study will help determine other buildings that may benefit from wind- to-heat in Kalskag, if feasible. Depending on the components of the proposed system, the diesel generators would continue running at minimum levels. Location: The physical location of the turbine will be determined during the feasibility study and would depend on the wind regime, site access, land ownership and the landowner’s desire to sell or lease, geotechnical and environmental conditions (wetlands, streams, topography), and community support. Civil infrastructure: Civil infrastructure access to a LIDAR station will be included in implementation of the proposed feasibility study. Assuming wind energy proves a viable resource in Kalskag, and if necessary, a wind turbine pad foundation will be included in the conceptual design and subsequent final design and construction phases of the project. Backup/supplemental system: The existing power plant with diesel fuel generators and the existing power distribution system will be maintained to provide for the full power needs of the community. 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 1 Wind 100 NPS Northwind 100 24% 20 2025 These values are speculative and used in the AEA/ISER model for the purpose of this application. The proposed study would determine the design capacity, turbine, and capacity factor. 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 N/A 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. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 25 of 39 10/04/2022 Wind System Operations The primary use of wind generation would be for the displacement of diesel power generation. Dispatch of the wind turbine, diesel power plant, secondary loads and possible energy storage would be controlled through a central dispatch control panel at the power plant. The wind study and conceptual design and report completed for this project would detail how a wind turbine would operate and be integrated into the existing diesel power system in Kalskag. One option is that the existing diesel system would operate at a lower capacity but remain online to supplement wind energy. In this scenario wind could be the primary energy source and contribute significantly to the existing energy system, but the diesel generator(s) would remain online to ensure consistent energy access during wind fluctuations and function as a backup should wind energy go offline at any point. Another option is that energy storage would be used for spinning reserve to help stabilize energy outputs and maintain power quality allowing the system to run with diesels off. AVEC would research this option and the expected feasibility and fuel savings. The anticipated effect of the proposed system is a decreased use of fuel for electrical power generation. Also, the diesel generator use in Kalskag would be reduced, thereby decreasing diesel operations and maintenance costs, enabling generators to last longer and need fewer overhauls. 5.4.3.1 Expected Capacity Factor 24% This value is speculative and will be determined through the work proposed here. 5.4.5.2 Annual Electricity Production and Fuel Consumption (Proposed System) Month Generation (Proposed System, Wind) (kWh) Generation (Type 2, Diesel) (kWh) Generation (Type 3) (kWh) Fuel Consumption (Diesel- Gallons) 12.19 kW/gal Fuel Consumption [Other] Secondary load (kWh) Storage (kWh) January 52,500 90,775 7,447 February 52,500 101,710 8,344 March 52,500 102,478 8,407 April 52,500 82,436 6,763 May 52,500 50,948 4,179 June 52,500 51,809 4,250 July 52,500 43,442 3,564 August 52,500 53,862 4,419 September 52,500 58,603 4,807 October 52,500 63,510 5,210 November 52,500 114,437 9,388 December 52,500 101,255 8,306 Total 630,000 915,265 75,083 Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 26 of 39 10/04/2022 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 diesel generation to be turned off. Some projects may allow for diesel generation to be turned off for periods of time; these projects should choose Option 2 for estimating O&M. Option 1: Diesel generation ON 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. $ 28,000 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. We have assumed “0” hours of diesel-off in the economic analysis. However, the final project would likely include the ability to go diesels off. 5.4.7 Fuel Costs Estimate annual cost for all applicable fuel(s) needed to run the proposed system (Year 1 of operation - 2025) Diesel (Gallons) Electricity Propane (Gallons) Coal (Tons) Wood Other Unit cost ($) $3.08/gal (based on Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 27 of 39 10/04/2022 AVEC five-year average for Kalskag fuel) Annual Units 75,083 gals Total Annual cost ($) $231,256 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. Because this project involves feasibility, geotechnical and conceptual design work only, no meter would be installed. AVEC installs meters on all renewable projects (primarily wind turbines) and would install a meter on the turbine if the project proves feasible and AVEC moves forward with wind energy construction. Metering equipment specifications and costs would be determined during the proposed conceptual design work and subsequent final design project phases. When this project is constructed, it is likely that the meter would be an Elster 16s (part number ZD3300K0082). This meter costs about $400. 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 As a cooperative, AVEC pools O&M costs of all member communities. Based on existing wind turbines, current annual O&M costs are approximately $28,000. The LIDAR station would require monthly monitoring and data management. It is expected that this would cost $700 total for the year that the LIDAR station is installed. The cost would be funded by this grant. If the turbines prove feasible, their maintenance would be funded by AVEC’s general operating costs. SECTION 6 – ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY AND BENEFITS 6.1 Economic Feasibility 6.1.1 Economic Benefit Annual (Reference: REF Model) Lifetime (assume 20 yrs) Anticipated Diesel Fuel Displaced for Power Generation (gallons) 45,985 919,700 Anticipated Fuel Displaced for Heat (gallons) N/A N/A Total Fuel displaced (gallons) 45,985 919,700 Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 28 of 39 10/04/2022 Anticipated Diesel Fuel Displaced for Power Generation ($) $141,635 (first year, based on AVEC 5 year fuel average for Kalskag of $3.08) $2,155,493 (See REF Model, based on 2025 fuel cost of $3.08 and an annual 1 percent increase) Anticipated Fuel Displaced for Heat ($) N/A N/A 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 $141,635 (first year) $2,155,493 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 available at https://www.akenergyauthority.org/What-We- Do/Grants-Loans/Renewable-Energy-Fund/2021-REF- Applicationhttp://www.akenergyauthority.org/REFund8.html. 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 this proposed feasibility study and CDR is to assess technical and economic viability of wind infrastructure in Kalskag. The installation of three 100-kilowatt (kW) capacity turbines (CF=24) in Kalskag is estimated to produce 630,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) annually, over one third of Kalskag’s annual electric load. Based on this assumption, the possible displacement of diesel fuel used for electricity generation would be approximately 45,985 gallons per year. Using AVEC’s five- year average of fuel prices to Kalskag of $3.08, this project could save $141,635 during the first year of operation. Over the 25-year life of the project, the estimated savings would be $2,155,293 based on 2025 fuel cost of $3.08 and an annual 1 percent increase. AVEC intends to utilize this intermediate phase of the project to identify an economically viable system for wind energy in Kalskag. Kalskag qualifies for Alaska’s power cost equalization program, providing economic assistance to communities with high energy costs and subsidized energy rates up to 750 kWh. The average annual price for residential electricity in Kalskag without PCE is $0.51 per kilowatt hour (kWh) as of November 2022. The price per kWh in Upper and Lower Kalskag can be compared to the 2021 “extremely high” cost benchmark established by U.S. Rural Utilities Service (RUS) of $0.3627/kWh or can be compared to Anchorage’s average cost of $0.20/kWh. The residents of Upper and Lower Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 29 of 39 10/04/2022 Kalskag would benefit from this project as it would mitigate the volatile energy costs found in rural Alaska. Immediate savings from this project will directly benefit AVEC and reduce Kalskag’s dependence on the PCE program. The high cost of energy is an extreme hardship for the low-income families in Upper and Lower Kalskag, even considering PCE credits. Un-subsidized energy costs are expected to decrease for residents and commercial entities in Upper and Lower Kalskag, providing immediate savings. Reduced energy costs for non-PCE community facilities may allow for increased or improved community or social services. Similarly, reduced energy costs for other non-PCE commercial energy customers such as stores that might pass along savings to residents. Kalskag community members practice a subsistence lifestyle which is time consuming and often in conflict with a cash economy. Many local residents, work in commercial fishing, but opportunities along the Kuskokwim River have been limited in recent years due to the collapse of chum salmon. In addition to commercial fishing, other sources of income come from wildland firefighting with some limited jobs from local infrastructure like the Zackar Levi Elementary School, the Joseph & Olinga Gregory Elementary School, the George Morgan Sr. High School, the health clinics in Upper and Lower Kalskag, the municipal offices, the City of Upper Kalskag Community Tank Farm, the village corporation offices, the U.S. Postal Service, and community stores. According to the 2020 census data, the median household income in Lower Kalskag is $33,250 and in Upper Kalskag it is $41,250. More than 40% of Lower Kalskag and more than 28% of Upper Kalskag persons are below the poverty line. The 2018 – 2023 Yukon-Kuskokwim Region Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), which includes Kalskag, includes a goal to expand and improve energy infrastructure. The plan includes wind as power alternative energy resource in the area and how the Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) is prioritizing more wind feasibility projects for the communities it serves. In the plan, a strength of the region is identified as its investment in wind energy as a resource. A wind feasibility project for the area builds off of the goals and priorities defined in the regional CEDS report. In an interview for the CEDS, a community member stated, “Cost of energy is the center of our universe. Energy drives transportation costs, grocery costs, and subsistence costs.” Many buildings in Kalskag are old and inefficient. The high cost of electricity is a constraint to fulfilling the needs of maintenance, repair and development within the community. This project, by reducing and stabilizing the cost of electricality would help meet the goals of the community plan. Stabilizing the rising costs of energy production would ease the burden felt by the residents and allow for progress in achievement of community goals. Sources: Yukon-Kuskokwim Region Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, AVCP 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 Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 30 of 39 10/04/2022  Other factors Economic risks from this project are primarily from the high startup costs, and economic viability is dependent on successful implementation and operation of wind energy infrastructure over a 20-year lifetime. Wind energy has proven an economically viable option for multiple communities in the lower Yukon-Kuskokwim region, including the nearby villages of Stebbins, Saint Mary’s, and Bethel. Although Kalskag has a small population, it has remained consistent throughout the years. Electricity demand will remain and could increase if energy costs drop or if new opportunities in region arise. AEA projections suggest the cost of fuel in Kalskag to increase for the foreseeable future, suggesting costs for continued dependence on diesel powered electricity in Kalskag could become prohibitive. With implementation of wind energy, energy costs will likely stabilize and help to ensure jobs in the community and a reliable energy market. Success of this project is dependent on maintenance of the existing energy infrastructure and the distribution system and the new wind turbine. AVEC has a complete and thorough process for tracking and maintaining energy infrastructure in all 58 communities the cooperative serves. 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. See Section 1.6 in the Request for Applications for more information. Not applicable to this project. Renewable energy resource availability (kWh per month) Estimated direct sales to private sector businesses (kWh) Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use at private 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 pricing 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 Other public benefits from the proposed project include providing a reliable renewable resource that would benefit all of Alaska as it mitigates potential hazardous environmental incidents that Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 31 of 39 10/04/2022 could threaten water and land resources. Implementing wind infrastructure and reducing dependency on diesel powered electricity will reduce the potential for fuel spills or contamination, improve air quality, and decrease reliance on fossil fuels. Data from this project will provide important information regarding wind resources in rural Alaska to be applied in future projects. Upper and Lower Kalskag are isolated villages that rely on air transportation for many essential resources. Reliable electric service is essential to maintaining vital navigation aids for the safe operation of aircraft. Runway lights, automated weather observation stations, VASI lights, DME’s and VOR’s are all powered by electricity. This project could lead to lower airport operating costs. Incorporating wind energy into the community power system will help stabilize costs associated with emergency medical service (EMS) provided in the health clinics by health aides and the volunteer fire, volunteer search and rescue and EMS response teams. Like all of Alaska, Kalskag is subject to long periods of darkness. Reliable electric service is essential for the operation of home lighting, streetlights, and security lighting. Wind power could help stabilize the cost of outside safety and security lighting of homes, roads (streetlights), the airport runway, and other locations. This project could help reduce the costs associated with lighting the community, which could leave more funds available for other community programs and infrastructure. Additionally, the LIDAR station purchased to measure wind feasibility in Kalskag can be used by other AVEC communities to measure wind feasibility once the project is complete. The LIDAR station is a singular unit that can be reused and transported more easily than a met tower. The investment in the LIDAR station will lower the cost and increase the ease of producing wind feasibility studies in the future, expanding benefits of wind power beyond Kalskag and to other rural villages in Alaska. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 32 of 39 10/04/2022 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 As a local utility that has been in operation since 1968, AVEC is completely able to finance, operate, and maintain this project for the design life. AVEC has the capacity and experience to operate this project. AVEC has operating wind projects throughout the state and is very familiar with planning, constructing, operating, and maintaining wind systems. See Section 10 for a complete discussion of AVEC’s success with similar or related long-term operations. AVEC has a large and geographically diverse staff capable of operating and maintaining energy infrastructure. Immediate tasks during this project phase include operation and maintenance of the LIDAR station, coordinated between AVEC and a local-hire technician. AVEC follows established and proven protocols for training existing and future employees to operate and maintain the proposed system. Throughout AVEC’s time as a leading energy cooperative, AVEC has had success with training and onboarding of renewable infrastructure projects in Alaska. See Section 4 for a detailed discussion of key personnel assigned to ensure successful completion of this project. AVEC will use tracking protocols already in practice to track necessary tasks associated with the proposed feasibility study and conceptual design report, along with any subsequent project phases. Should wind power prove a viable resource in Kalskag and AVEC successfully implements wind energy infrastructure, the local wind turbine would be incorporated into AVEC’s established and proven operation and maintenance system. Local plant operators would provide daily servicing. AVEC technicians would provide periodic preventative or corrective maintenance and be supported by AVEC headquarters staff, purchasing, and warehousing. 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. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 33 of 39 10/04/2022 The capital costs of the proposed wind turbine(s) in Kalskag would be determined through the feasibility study and associated CDR. Wind experts and engineers would prepare a cost estimate for installation of a suitable system. The costs of operations and maintenance of the proposed project would be funded through ongoing energy sales. Different turbines have different operating costs; however, using AVEC’s average cost of O&M for wind energy, estimated O&M for this project would cost $28,000 annually. AVEC has well established and proven processes in place to account for setting rates, ensuring revenue is collected, and maintaining financial sustainability of infrastructure over their operational lives. Rates are inclusive of a kWh charge, a fuel charge, a flat customer charge fee, sales tax (in some communities), a demand charge (if service is billed on a demand meter). Many residential and community facilities receive a PCE deduction for up to 750kWh per month. As a recipient of PCE, AVEC’s rates are reviewed and approved by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska. When renewable energy is added to an existing diesel generation system, AVEC determines the cost of electricity based on fuel use for generation and the cost of operating the new renewable energy system. AVEC ensures that bills are collected through monthly billing and easy payment options (mail, online, over the phone, autopay, by credit card, etc.). AVEC helps customers obtain financial assistance when needed. As a last resort, AVEC can disconnect customers for nonpayment. 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) Given that this project is in the feasibility and concept design stage, revenue and incentives are unknown. Tax credits are not expected to be beneficial to the project due to AVEC’s status as a non-profit entity. Nonetheless, in addition to saving the direct cost of fuel, AVEC could sell green tags from the project. Opportunities to fund energy infrastructure exist in the IIJA and IRA and developing a wind feasibility study for Kalskag now, places the community in a more competitive position to take advantage of federal funding opportunities. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 34 of 39 10/04/2022 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. Identification of potential power buyer(s)/customer(s): AVEC, the existing electric utility serving Upper and Lower Kalskag, is a non-profit, member-owned cooperative electric utility and owns and maintains the generation, fuel storage, and distribution facilities in the villages it serves. No power purchase or sales agreements would be needed for this project. Upper Kalskag has approximately 65 households, three community buildings, and 25 streetlights that purchase power from AVEC. Lower Kalskag has 80 households, seven community accounts, and two streetlights that purchase power from AVEC. Both communities utilize the power produced at the Upper Kalskag power plant through an electric intertie that travels the approximately half a mile from Upper Kalskag to Lower Kalskag. Potential power purchase/sales price: At this point in project development, the potential power price and rate of return on the project is unknown. Work done under this grant would determine this information. 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 deliverables for each project phase. Please describe below and attach any required documentation. AVEC will take steps to prepare a LIDAR station for delivery and identify a location for its installation before the AEA REF Grant is to be awarded to ensure project readiness. AVEC has term agreements with engineering and wind consultants, which will allow work to begin on the wind analysis and CDR quickly. FAA permitting process is to be completed by the time this grant is awarded. Once funding is known to be secured, AVEC would seek a lease for the LIDAR station, if needed, and begin the environmental permitting process. AVEC would utilize field personnel and local hires to install the LIDAR station and complete the geotechnical work once the grant agreement is in place. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 35 of 39 10/04/2022 The LIDAR station installation and geotechnical work would occur before winter. Work that can be completed before the wind study is completed would occur over the winter, including analysis of current cost of energy and future market, and the economic and financial analyses. Once the wind study is completed, the conceptual design and permitting would occur. The geotechnical work would be completed under the direction of the engineering consultants, which have completed this type of work in the past. This would enable the geotechnical field effort to occur before winter. Furthermore, as noted in the attached letters of support, Upper and Lower Kalskag residents are energized by the idea of a wind project in their community and are prepared to work with AVEC on land agreements. At Kalskag’s annual community meeting with AVEC, the community drafted and signed a resolution requesting that AVEC develop a wind feasibility study for the community. With the wind analysis, geotechnical data, and site selection in hand, completion of the CDR would be seamless. No other grants have been secured for this work in the past. 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. Not applicable to this project. 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 November 16, 2021. Please note that letters of support from legislators will not count toward this criterion. The community is very committed to moving this project forward and supports evaluating wind energy as a viable option for sustainable energy infrastructure in the community. The community proposed a wind feasibility to AVEC during its annual meeting and strongly supports the development of wind energy in Kalskag. Letters of support for this project have been received from the Kuskokwim Corporation, the City of Upper Kalskag, the Native Village of Kalskag, the Village of Lower Kalskag, and the City of Lower Kalskag. Letters of support can be found under Tab B. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 36 of 39 10/04/2022 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. AVEC has been providing electrical services to rural, isolated, and economically disadvantaged Alaska communities since 1968. The Cooperative began with three communities and a very small staff and has steadily grown to the impressive non-profit organization it is today, with 58-member villages. AVEC started out with loans from the USDA RUS and became a Denali Commission partner in 2001. AVEC now has over 90 employees. There are generation technicians, linemen, managers, engineers, expediters, and others in its central office in Anchorage, and plant operators within member communities. With the signatures on this application, AVEC certifies that it is a legally incorporated, non-profit entity eligible to receive federal grant funding for the proposed project. Documentation of incorporation is available upon request. AVEC has the largest geographic service area of any retail electric cooperative in world. It has demonstrated non-stop dedication to bringing stable and efficient sources of electricity to homes, schools, clinics, water and sewer systems, businesses, and communications infrastructure in its member villages. AVEC operates 160 diesel generators throughout its service area and purchases over 9 million gallons of fuel annually. The generators produce electric power for member communities, running a cumulative total of more than 420,000 hours per year. In 2021, AVEC generated 124 million kWh in power sales. Each of AVEC’s 58 villages conducts an annual village meeting for the express purpose of electing a delegate to represent their community at AVEC’s Annual Cooperative Meeting held in Anchorage each April. At the Annual Meeting, the delegates discuss AVEC business and elect members to serve on the seven-member board of directors. AVEC and the local governments operate as a partnership. Under operating agreements with all member communities, local control is exercised. The village governments hire the plant operators and oversee the day-to-day operation of power generation plants. The AVEC Board of Directors and staff are committed to the on-going effort of increasing the efficiencies and effectiveness of power-producing facilities and distribution lines in all member villages. They believe that by improving the power generation and distribution in each community, they are helping to improve the future of all impacted residents. Since 2000, AVEC has reliably and responsibly spent over $299 million of grant funds plus its own money to construct over 120 major projects. This includes 36 bulk fuel tank farm upgrades or replacements, 19 new diesel-fired power plants, 7 standby backup power plants, 22 (grant funded or AVEC funded) recovered heat systems, 14 wind farms (32 total wind turbines), 8 village-to- village interties, 1 photovoltaic (PV) solar array, and 33 other generation and distribution upgrades. Funding for these projects has come from the Denali Commission ($227 million), the Alaska Energy Authority ($38 million), USDA RUS direct awards ($14 million), USDE Office of Indian Energy ($4 million), other grants ($18 million), and AVEC matching contributions ($37 million). AVEC has been awarded 41 AEA grants, details for these grants are attached in Tab G. Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Grant Application – Standard Form AEA 23046 Page 37 of 39 10/04/2022 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. Not applicable to this project. SECTION 12 – LIST OF ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION SUBMITTED FOR CONSIDERATION In the space below, please provide a list of additional information submitted for consideration. Tab A – Resumes Tab B – Letters of Support Tab C – Heat Tab D – Authority Tab E – Electronic Application Tab F – Certification Tab G – Additional Materials (REF Round 15 Economic Evaluation Model; AVEC AEA Grant Summary) Tab A Resumes Tab B Letters of Support THE KUSKOKWIM CORPORATION 4300 B ST. SUITE 405 ANCHORAGE AK 99503 PHONE 907.243.2944 FAX 907.243.2984 November 23, 2022 William R. Stamm, President and CEO Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc (AVEC) 4831 Eagle Street Anchorage, AK 99503 Re: Letter of Support to the Renewable Energy Fund: Kalskag Wind Feasibility Study Project Dear Mr. Stamm, On behalf of The Kuskokwim Corporation (TKC), thank you for the work Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. (AVEC) is doing to power the middle Kuskokwim. As you know, reducing the high cost of energy is critical to unlocking the economic potential of our region and will help our shareholders and residents. The communities of Upper and Lower Kalskag experience high costs of fuel and electricity. TKC writes in support of the Renewable Energy Fund (REF) application request AVEC has submitted to the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) and then to the State Legislature for consideration to augment the diesel electric system serving both Upper and Lower Kalskag. We understand you are requesting funding to study the feasibility of wind power generation. Currently, both communities of Upper and Lower Kalskag generate power through a joint power plant located in Upper Kalskag through an existing intertie. AVEC is requesting funding to study the feasibility of wind to serve both communities to help stability energy costs and reduce diesel fuel consumption. TKC manages more than 950,000 acres of land, made up of ten (10) communities in the middle of the Yukon Kuskokwim region along the Kuskokwim River. As the Village Corporation representing both Upper and Lower Kalskag, TKC fully supports this multi-year project, in all of its stages; from wind study, design and development, geotechnical survey to construction, as it will help determine if wind power is a solution to high and unstable costs in both communities of Upper and Lower Kalskag. TKC is willing to work with AVEC and both communities to find a good site for the LIDAR station and to help AVEC get approvals for placement of the equipment. Please include this letter of support in your grant application and TKC requests AEA and the State Legislature fully fund this important project. Sincerely, Andrea Gusty President & CEO The Kuskokwim Corporation Tab C Heat Project Information No information provided in this section. Not applicable to this project. Tab D Authority Tab E Electronic Application Application was submitted electronically. Not applicable to this project. Tab F Certification Tab G Additional Materials ‐ AVEC AEA Grant Summary ‐ Evaluation Model Grant # / Application #No.Description Notes Year Funded Grant #2195244 Wind Turbine Foundation Design & Testing Project (DC project 27D Toksook Bay)Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2005 AES Grant #2195281 Chevak Wind Farm Project (DC project 29E)Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2007 AES Grant #2195412 Ambler Solar PV Construction Failed early feasibility evaluation, returned bulk of funds.2008 RD1 Grant #2195432 Bethel Wind Farm Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2008 RD1 Grant #2195413 Cosmos Hills Hydro Feasibility Completed successfully; feasibility only.2008 RD1 Grant #2195384 Mekoryuk Wind Farm Construction Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2008 RD1 Grant #2195431 Old Harbor Hydroelectric Final Design Completed successfully (design). FERC licensure in place.2008 RD1 Grant #2195383 Quinhagak Wind Farm Construction Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2008 RD1 Grant #2195385 Toksook Bay Wind Farm Expansion Construction Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2008 RD1 Grant #2195463 Shaktoolik Wind Construction Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2009 RD2 Grant #2195464 Teller Wind Analysis Completed successfully; feasibility only.2009 RD2 Grant #2195468 Emmonak/Alakanuk Wind Design and Construction Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2009 RD2 Grant #7030006 New Stuyahok Wind Analysis Completed successfully; feasibility only.2009 RD2 Grant #7030016 Kivalina Wind-Intertie Feasibility Analysis & Conceptual Design Completed successfully; feasibility only.2010 RD3 Grant #7040008 Stebbins Wind Feasibility Completed successfully; feasibility only.2011 RD4 Grant #7040014 Old Harbor Hydroelectric Project Completed successfully (design). FERC licensure in place.2011 RD4 Grant #7040017 St. Mary's/ Pitka's Point Wind Design and Construction Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2011 RD4 Grant #7040019 Eek Wind Feasibility Completed successfully; feasibility only.2011 RD4 Grant #7040021 Marshall Wind Feasibility Study Completed successfully; feasibility only.2011 RD4 Grant #7040022 Scammon Bay Wind Feasibility Completed successfully; feasibility only.2011 RD4 Grant #7040030 Selawik Hybrid Wind Diesel System Turbine Upgrade Assessment Completed successfully; feasibility only.2011 RD4 Grant #7040049 Kaltag Solar Construction Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2011 RD4 Grant #7040052 Koyuk Wind Feasibility Study Community declined to participate. Returned funding.2011 RD4 Grant #7040053 Elim Wind Feasibility Study Completed successfully; feasibility only.2011 RD4 Grant #7050870 Surplus Wind Energy Recovery for Mekoryuk Water System Heat Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2012 RD5 Grant #7050871 Shaktoolik Surplus Wind Energy Recovery for Water System Heat Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2012 RD5 Grant #7050875 Surplus Wind Energy Recovery for Chevak Water System Heat Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2012 RD5 Grant #7050876 Surplus Wind Energy Recovery for Gambell Water System Heat Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2012 RD5 Grant #7060939 Stebbins Heat Recovery Project Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2013 RD6 Grant #7071067 Mountain Village Wind Feasibility and Conceptual Design Completed successfully; feasibility only.2014 RD7 Grant #7071068 Stebbins St. Michael Wind Energy Final Design and Permitting Completed successfully; final design and permitting.2014 RD7 Grant #7081118 Bethel Power Plant Heat Recovery Assessment & Conceptual Design Completed successfully; feasibility and coceptual design.2015 RD8 Grant #7091223 Shishmaref Wind Energy Feasibility and CDR In progress. 2018 RD9 Grant #7091224 Mountain Village-St. Mary's Wind Intertie Project Completed successfully; facilities constructed. 2018 RD9 Grant #7110056 Togiak RPSU Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2017 Grant #7110082 Anvik DERA Replace Engine Position 3 Completed successfully; new engine commissioned and on-line.2019 Grant #7210025 Holy Cross BFU Completed successfully; facilities now in service.2017 Grant #7310305 Grid Bridging System Research and Development In progress.2019 Application #13002 Goodnews Bay Wind Energy Feasibility & Conceptual Design Project In progress.2020 RD13 Application #13003 Kotlik Wind Energy Feasibility & Conceptual Design Project In progress.2020 RD13 Application #14004 Pilot Station Wind Energy Feasibility Study & Conceptual Design Project In progress.2021 RD14 Application #14002 Holy Cross Solar Energy & Battery Storage Feasibility Project In progress.2021 RD14 Renewable Energy Fund Economic Benefit-Cost Analysis Model Project Description Community Nearest Fuel Community Region RE Technology Project ID Applicant Name Project Title Results NPV Benefits $1,762,836.96 NPV Capital Costs $5,482,524 B/C Ratio 0.32 NPV Net Benefit ($3,404,968) Performance Unit Value Displaced Electricity kWh per year 630,000 Displaced Electricity total lifetime kWh 12,600,000 Displaced Petroleum Fuel gallons per year 45,985 Displaced Petroleum Fuel total lifetime gallons 919,708 Displaced Natural Gas MCF per year - Displaced Natural Gas total lifetime MCF - Avoided CO2 tonnes per year 469 Avoided CO2 total lifetime tonnes 9,372 Proposed System Unit Value Capital Costs $5,647,000$ Project Start year 2025 Project Life years 20 Displaced Electric kWh per year 630,000 Displaced Heat gallons displaced per year Renewable Generation O&M (Electric)$ per year 28,000 Renewable Generation O&M (Heat)$ per year Diesels OFF time Hours per year Electric Capacity kW 300 Electric Capacity Factor %24% Heating Capacity Btu/hr Heating Capacity Factor %#DIV/0! Total Other Public Benefit 2021$ (Total over the life of the project)0 Base System Size of impacted engines (select from list)$/hr Diesel Generator O&M 361-600kW 9.95$ Applicant's Diesel Generator Efficiency kWh per gallon 13.7 Total current annual diesel generation kWh/gallon 1,545,265 13.70 NOTICE: By default, this sheet is locked. If you need to unlock the sheet go to 'Review' in ribbon bar, select 'Unprotect Sheet', then input passcode: REFRound15 Kalskag Kalskag Rural Wind Alaska Village Electric Cooperative (AVEC) Kalskag Wind Feasibility and Conceptual Design Diesel Generation Efficiency Annual Cost Savings Units 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 Entered Value Project Capital Cost $ per year 5,647,000$ CALCULATION Electric Cost Savings $ per year 113,635$ 115,051$ 116,468$ 117,884$ 119,300$ CALCULATION Heating Cost Savings $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Entered Value Other Public Benefits $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Total Cost Savings $ per year 113,635$ 115,051$ 116,468$ 117,884$ 119,300$ CALCULATION Net Benefit $ per year (5,533,365)$ 115,051$ 116,468$ 117,884$ 119,300$ (5,418,314)$ (5,301,846)$ (5,419,730)$ (5,300,429)$ Electric Units 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 Enter Value if generation changes Renewable Generation kWh per year 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 Entered Value Renewable scheduled replacement(s) (Electric)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ REFERENCE: Cell D34 Renewable O&M (Electric)$ per year 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ Entered Value Renewable Electric Other costs $ per year Entered Value Renewable Fuel Use Quantity (Biomass)green tons Entered Value Renewable Fuel Cost $ per unit CALCULATION Total Renewable Fuel Cost (Electric)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Proposed Generation Cost (Electric)$ per year 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ REFERENCE: Cell D32 Displaced Fossil Fuel Generation kWh per year 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 REFERENCE: Worksheet 'Diesel Fuel Prices'Displaced Fuel Price $ per gallon 3.08$ 3.11$ 3.14$ 3.17$ 3.20$ Enter Value if Diesels are OFF Displaced Scheduled component replacement(s)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Displaced O&M $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Displaced Fuel Use gallons per year 45,985 45,985 45,985 45,985 45,985 CALCULATION Displaced Fuel Cost $ per year 141,635$ 143,051$ 144,468$ 145,884$ 147,300$ CALCULATION Base Generation Displaced Cost $ per year 141,635$ 143,051$ 144,468$ 145,884$ 147,300$ Proposed Base Annual Cost Savings Units 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 Entered Value Project Capital Cost $ per year CALCULATION Electric Cost Savings $ per year 120,717$ 122,133$ 123,549$ 124,966$ 126,382$ CALCULATION Heating Cost Savings $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Entered Value Other Public Benefits $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Total Cost Savings $ per year 120,717$ 122,133$ 123,549$ 124,966$ 126,382$ CALCULATION Net Benefit $ per year 120,717$ 122,133$ 123,549$ 124,966$ 126,382$ (5,179,713)$ (5,057,580)$ (4,934,030)$ (4,809,064)$ (4,682,682)$ Electric Units 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 Enter Value if generation changes Renewable Generation kWh per year 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 Entered Value Renewable scheduled replacement(s) (Electric)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ REFERENCE: Cell D34 Renewable O&M (Electric)$ per year 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ Entered Value Renewable Electric Other costs $ per year Entered Value Renewable Fuel Use Quantity (Biomass)green tons Entered Value Renewable Fuel Cost $ per unit CALCULATION Total Renewable Fuel Cost (Electric)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Proposed Generation Cost (Electric)$ per year 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ REFERENCE: Cell D32 Displaced Fossil Fuel Generation kWh per year 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 REFERENCE: Worksheet 'Diesel Fuel Prices'Displaced Fuel Price $ per gallon 3.23$ 3.26$ 3.30$ 3.33$ 3.36$ Enter Value if Diesels are OFF Displaced Scheduled component replacement(s)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Displaced O&M $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Displaced Fuel Use gallons per year 45,985 45,985 45,985 45,985 45,985 CALCULATION Displaced Fuel Cost $ per year 148,717$ 150,133$ 151,549$ 152,966$ 154,382$ CALCULATION Base Generation Displaced Cost $ per year 148,717$ 150,133$ 151,549$ 152,966$ 154,382$ Proposed Base Annual Cost Savings Units 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 Entered Value Project Capital Cost $ per year CALCULATION Electric Cost Savings $ per year 127,799$ 129,215$ 130,631$ 132,048$ 133,464$ CALCULATION Heating Cost Savings $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Entered Value Other Public Benefits $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Total Cost Savings $ per year 127,799$ 129,215$ 130,631$ 132,048$ 133,464$ CALCULATION Net Benefit $ per year 127,799$ 129,215$ 130,631$ 132,048$ 133,464$ (4,554,884)$ (4,425,669)$ (4,295,037)$ (4,162,990)$ (4,029,526)$ Electric Units 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 Enter Value if generation changes Renewable Generation kWh per year 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 Entered Value Renewable scheduled replacement(s) (Electric)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ REFERENCE: Cell D34 Renewable O&M (Electric)$ per year 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ Entered Value Renewable Electric Other costs $ per year Entered Value Renewable Fuel Use Quantity (Biomass)green tons Entered Value Renewable Fuel Cost $ per unit CALCULATION Total Renewable Fuel Cost (Electric)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Proposed Generation Cost (Electric)$ per year 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ REFERENCE: Cell D32 Displaced Fossil Fuel Generation kWh per year 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 REFERENCE: Worksheet 'Diesel Fuel Prices'Displaced Fuel Price $ per gallon 3.39$ 3.42$ 3.45$ 3.48$ 3.51$ Enter Value if Diesels are OFF Displaced Scheduled component replacement(s)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Displaced O&M $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Displaced Fuel Use gallons per year 45,985 45,985 45,985 45,985 45,985 CALCULATION Displaced Fuel Cost $ per year 155,799$ 157,215$ 158,631$ 160,048$ 161,464$ CALCULATION Base Generation Displaced Cost $ per year 155,799$ 157,215$ 158,631$ 160,048$ 161,464$ Proposed Base Annual Cost Savings Units 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 Entered Value Project Capital Cost $ per year CALCULATION Electric Cost Savings $ per year 134,880$ 136,297$ 137,713$ 139,129$ 140,546$ CALCULATION Heating Cost Savings $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Entered Value Other Public Benefits $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Total Cost Savings $ per year 134,880$ 136,297$ 137,713$ 139,129$ 140,546$ CALCULATION Net Benefit $ per year 134,880$ 136,297$ 137,713$ 139,129$ 140,546$ (3,894,646)$ (3,758,349)$ (3,620,636)$ (3,481,507)$ (3,340,961)$ Electric Units 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 Enter Value if generation changes Renewable Generation kWh per year 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 Entered Value Renewable scheduled replacement(s) (Electric)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ REFERENCE: Cell D34 Renewable O&M (Electric)$ per year 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ Entered Value Renewable Electric Other costs $ per year Entered Value Renewable Fuel Use Quantity (Biomass)green tons Entered Value Renewable Fuel Cost $ per unit CALCULATION Total Renewable Fuel Cost (Electric)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Proposed Generation Cost (Electric)$ per year 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ 28,000$ REFERENCE: Cell D32 Displaced Fossil Fuel Generation kWh per year 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 630,000 REFERENCE: Worksheet 'Diesel Fuel Prices'Displaced Fuel Price $ per gallon 3.54$ 3.57$ 3.60$ 3.63$ 3.67$ Enter Value if Diesels are OFF Displaced Scheduled component replacement(s)$ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Displaced O&M $ per year -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ CALCULATION Displaced Fuel Use gallons per year 45,985 45,985 45,985 45,985 45,985 CALCULATION Displaced Fuel Cost $ per year 162,880$ 164,297$ 165,713$ 167,129$ 168,546$ CALCULATION Base Generation Displaced Cost $ per year 162,880$ 164,297$ 165,713$ 167,129$ 168,546$ Proposed Base