HomeMy WebLinkAbout2.0 REFRoundIXApplication KHL Grant Lake HydroGRANT LAKE HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT
REF Round IX Grant Application
Renewable Energy Fund Round IX
Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 15003 Page 1 of 34 7/8/14
Application Forms and Instructions
This instruction page and the following grant application constitutes the Grant Application Form for
Round VIII of the Renewable Energy Fund. A separate application form is available for projects
with a primary purpose of producing heat (see RFA section 1.5). This is the standard form for all
other projects, including projects that will produce heat and electricity. An electronic version of the
Request for Applications (RFA) and both application forms is available online at:
http://www.akenergyauthority.org/Programs/Renewable-Energy-Fund/Rounds#round9.
•If you need technical assistance filling out this application, please contact Shawn Calfa, the
Alaska Energy Authority Grants Administrator at (907) 771-3031 or at scalfa@aidea.org.
•If you are applying for grants for more than one project, provide separate application forms
for each project.
•Multiple phases (e.g. final design, construction) for the same project may be submitted as
one application.
•If you are applying for grant funding for more than one phase of a project, provide milestones
and grant budget for each phase of the project.
•In order to ensure that grants provide sufficient benefit to the public, AEA may limit
recommendations for grants to preliminary development phases in accordance with 3 ACC
107.605(1).
•If some work has already been completed on your project and you are requesting funding for
an advanced phase, submit information sufficient to demonstrate that the preceding phases
are completed and funding for an advanced phase is warranted. Supporting documentation
may include, but is not limited to, reports, conceptual or final designs, models, photos, maps,
and proof of site control, utility agreements, power sale agreements, relevant data sets, and
other materials. Please provide a list of supporting documents in Section 11 of this application
and attach the documents to your application.
•If you have additional information or reports you would like the Authority to consider in
reviewing your application, either provide an electronic version of the document with your
submission or reference a web link where it can be downloaded or reviewed. Please provide
a list of additional information; including any web links, in section 12 of this application and
attach the documents to your application. For guidance on application best practices please
refer to the resource specific Best Practices Checklists; links to the checklists can be found
in the appendices list at the end of the accompanying REF Round IX RFA.
•In the sections below, please enter responses in the spaces provided. You may add
additional rows or space to the form to provide sufficient space for the information, or attach
additional sheets if needed.
REMINDER:
•Alaska Energy Authority is subject to the Public Records Act AS 40.25, and materials
submitted to the Authority may be subject to disclosure requirements under the act if no
statutory exemptions apply.
•All applications received will be posted on the Authority web site after final recommendations
are made to the legislature.
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•In accordance with 3 AAC 107.630 (b) Applicants may request trade secrets or proprietary
company data be kept confidential subject to review and approval by the Authority. If you
want information to be kept confidential the applicant must:
o Request the information be kept confidential.
o Clearly identify the information that is the trade secret or proprietary in their
application.
o Receive concurrence from the Authority that the information will be kept confidential.
If the Authority determines it is not confidential it will be treated as a public record in
accordance with AS 40.25 or returned to the applicant upon request.
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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)
Kenai Hydro LLC
Type of Entity: Fiscal Year End:
Independent Power Producer December 31
Tax ID #
Tax Status: ☒ For-profit ☐ Non-profit ☐ Government (check one)
Date of last financial statement audit:
Mailing Address: Physical Address:
3977 Lake Street, Homer, AK 99603 Same
Telephone: Fax: Email:
907-283-2375 907-335-6164 msalzetti@homerelectric.com
1.1 Applicant Point of Contact / Grants Manager
Name: Mikel Salzetti Title: Manager Renewable Energy Development
Mailing Address:
3977 Lake Street, Homer, AK 99603
Telephone: Fax: Email:
907-283-2375 907-335-6164 msalzetti@homerelectric.com
1.1.1 APPLICANT SIGNATORY AUTHORITY CONTACT INFORMATION
Name: Bradley P. Janorschke Title: General Manager
Mailing Address:
3977 Lake Street, Homer, AK 99603
Telephone: 907-283-2312 Fax: 907-283-7122 Email:bjanorschke@homerelectric.com
1.1.2 Applicant Alternate Points of Contact
Name Telephone: Fax: Email:
Bradley P. Janorschke 907-283-2312 907-283-7122 bjanorschke@homerelectric.com
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1.2 Applicant Minimum Requirements
Please check as appropriate. If applicants do not meet the minimum requirements, the application
will be rejected.
1.2.1 Applicant Type
☐An electric utility holding a certificate of public convenience and necessity under AS 42.05, or
☒An independent power producer in accordance with 3 AAC 107.695 (a) (1), or
☐A local government, or
☐A governmental entity (which includes tribal councils and housing authorities)
1.2 APPLICANT MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS (continued)
Please check as appropriate.
☒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 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 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
http://www.akenergyauthority.org/Programs/Renewable-Energy-Fund/Rounds#round9. (Any
exceptions should be clearly noted and submitted with the application.) (Indicate by checking
the box)
☒1.2.5 W e intend to own and operate any project that may be constructed with grant funds for
the benefit of the general public. If no please describe the nature of the project and who will
be the primary beneficiaries. (Indicate yes by checking the box)
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SECTION 2 – PROJECT SUMMARY
2.1 Project Title
Provide a 4 to 7 word title for your project. Type in the space below.
Grant Lake Hydroelectric Project
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
at 907-771-3031.
The project would be harnessing the hydro energy of the Grant Lake watershed located near Moose
Pass, Alaska. Latitude: 60°27'40.74"N Longitude: 149°20'14.18"W
2.2.2 Community benefiting – Name(s) of the community or communities that will be the
beneficiaries of the project.
Persons benefitted would be the utility customers on the Kenai Peninsula.
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
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2.4 Project Description
Provide a brief one paragraph description of the proposed project.
The Grant Lake Hydroelectric Facility would consist of 5 MW of installed capacity with an average
annual output of 19,500 MWh of energy, installed on the Grant lake watershed near Moose Pass,
Alaska. The proposed Project is comprised of an intake structure in Grant Lake, a tunnel, a surge
tank, a penstock, a powerhouse, a tailrace detention pond, a switchyard with disconnect switch &
step-up transformer, and an overhead or underground transmission line. The intake would be in
Grant Lake near its outlet. Water would be conveyed from the intake through a 3200’ tunnel and
a150 foot penstock to a powerhouse containing two Francis-type turbines. The powerhouse would
be located near the bank of Grant Creek and would discharge through a tailrace into Grant Creek. A
transmission line would connect the facility to the Railbelt grid near Moose Pass. The layout has
been recently revised to minimize the Project footprint. The current design omits the construction of
a diversion structure (dam) at the outlet of Grant Lake. All 13-feet of storage that will be utilized for
power generation will be drawn from below the natural lake outlet. The tailrace channel, which returns
flow from the powerhouse to Grant Creek, will be located at the upstream side of Reach 4.
Supplemental water will be routed from the intake tunnel to provide instream flows for fish in the
bypass reach (Reach 5).This tailrace location ensures that the reaches with the best natural habitat
for fish will not be dewatered. Please see Exhibits A & B of the attached FERC Draft License
Application for a complete project description and details on the proposed operation of the Project.
2.5 Scope of Work
Provide a 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.
The proposed Project consists of constructing a new 5-Megawatt hydroelectric facility on Grant Lake
and Grant Creek near Moose Pass, Alaska. The new Project would divert water from Grant Lake
and deliver the flow to a powerhouse located near the outlet of the existing Grant Creek natural,
incised rock canyon downstream from Reach 5. The Project would include the following major
components:
•An intake structure in Grant Lake.
•A tunnel extending from the lake intake to just east of the powerhouse.
•A penstock and surge tank located at the west end of the tunnel.
•A powerhouse with two Francis turbines providing a combined 5-Megawatt output. The
maximum design flow will be approximately 385 cfs.
•Tailrace detention pond.
•Switchyard with disconnect switch and step-up transformer.
•An overhead or underground transmission line.
•Access road from the Seward Highway to the powerhouse and extending up to the intake
structure at Grant Lake.
•A pole mounted disconnect switch where the transmission line intersects the main power
transmission line.
Under this funding request the following tasks will be performed:
LICENSING, LAND ACQUSITION & PERMITTING
It is anticipated that a Final License Application (FLA) for this project will be submitted to the Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in December of 2015. Funds from this grant along with
matching funds and in-kind labor match will be utilized to obtain the required permits, leases,
easements and / or rights to construct and operate this project. This will include:
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•Working with the Alaska Department of Natural Resources (ADNR) to obtain the appropriate
easements and / or leases from the ADNR. This will require working with ADNR to determine
if there are any conflicts within the current management and permitting guidelines within the
Kenai River Comprehensive Management Plan (KRCMP) and the Kenai Area Plan (KAP)
and if there are conflicts working with the appropriate entities to get amendments or MOUs
that address the conflicts and allow ADNR permits, leases, easements and / or rights to be
obtained.
•Obtaining a railroad crossing easement if discussions with the Alaska Railroad indicate that
a new crossing would be better that the existing road crossing
•Obtaining a U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Special Use Permit.
•Obtaining a Section 404 Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
•Obtaining an EPA NPDES permit
•Continuing work with the USFS and other Agencies on a re-routed easement for the
Commemorative Iditarod National Historic Trail.
•Obtaining any other permits, licenses, leases, easements, or rights to construct and operate
the project.
FINAL DESIGN
Funds from this grant along with matching funds and in-kind labor match will be utilized to complete
the final design tasks:
•Geotechnical Field Explorations
•Additional Topographic Mapping
•Prepare Engineering Design Bid Package
•Prepare 50% Plans and Specifications
•Prepare 90% Plans and Specifications
•Prepare 100% Plans and Specifications
•Issue Stamped/Signed Construction Documents
•Prepare QCIP
•Prepare Environmental Plans
•Prepare Construction Plans
•FERC Review and Approval to Construct
•Prepare Water-to-Wire Bid Package
•Review and Select Vendor
•Limited Award for Shop Drawings
Although the final design work would be competitively bid, attached is a proposed detailed project
work scope from McMillen Jacobs Associates whom KHL has retained to do all preliminary
engineering design required for the FERC FLA.
SECTION 3 – Project Management, Development, and Operation
3.1 Schedule and Milestones
Criteria: Stage 2-1.A: The proposed schedule is clear, realistic, and described in adequate detail.
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 in 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 of your proposed project. Add additional rows as needed.
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Milestones Tasks
Start
Date End Date Deliverables
LICENSING, LAND ACQUSITION
& PERMITTING
115 Submit FERC Final License
Application 12/31/2015 12/31/2015 FLA
200 Acquire Land and Easements
8/1/2016 6/1/2017 Leases, Easements &
Rights
205 404 Permit 7/1/2016 4/1/2017 404 Permit
210 USFS Special Use 7/1/2016 4/1/2017 USFS Special Use Permit
220 NPDES or APDES Permit 3/1/2017 4/1/2017 NPDES Permit
230 INHT Re-route 7/1/2016 6/1/2017 MOU
240 Other permits, licenses, leases,
easements, and / or rights as required
8/1/2016 1/1/2018
Permits, licenses, leases,
easements, and / or rights
as required
FINAL ENGINEERING AND
FERC PLANS
300 Geotechnical Field Explorations
7/1/2016 10/1/2016
Detailed construction cost
estimate for the proposed
tunnel
305 Additional Topographic Mapping
7/1/2016 10/1/2016 Topographic &
Bathymetric Maps
310 Prepare Engineering Design Bid
Package 7/1/2016 8/1/2016 Bid Package
315 Bid Period 8/1/2016 9/1/2016 N/A
320 Review and Select Engineering
Contractor 9/1/2016 10/1/2016 Bid Award
325 Prepare 50% Plans and Specifications
10/1/2016 1/30/2017 50% Draw & Spec
Package
330 Prepare 90% Plans and Specifications
1/30/2017 6/1/2017 90% Draw & Spec
Package
335 Prepare 100% Plans and Specifications
6/2/2017 9/1/2017 100% Draw & Spec
Package
340 Issue Stamped/Signed Construction
Documents 11/1/2017 11/1/2017 Stamped/Signed
Construction Documents
345 Prepare QCIP
9/1/2017 11/1/2017 Written Quality Control
and Inspection Program
350 Prepare Environmental Plans
1/30/2017 9/1/2017 Written Environmental
Plans
355 Prepare Construction Plans
6/2/2017 11/1/2017 Written Construction
Plans
360 FERC Review and Approval to
Construct 11/1/2017 1/30/2018 Final Design
Documentation Report
365 Prepare Water-to-Wire Bid Package
10/1/2016 1/1/2017 Water-to-Wire Bid
Package
375 Bid Period 1/1/2017 3/1/2017 N/A
380 Review and Select Vendor 3/1/2017 4/1/2017 N/A
385 Limited Award for Shop Drawings 4/1/2017 5/1/2017 Bid Award
3.2 Budget
Criteria: Stage 2-1.B: The cost estimates for project development, operation, maintenance, fuel, and
other project items meet industry standards or are otherwise justified.
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3.2.1 Budget Overview
Describe your financial commitment to the project. List the amount of funds needed for project
completion and the anticipated nature and sources of funds. Consider all project phases, including
future phases not covered in this funding request.
Phase Description Value
1 Reconnaissance Study $131,442
2 Resource Monitoring, Feasibility & Conceptual Design $5,712,558
3 Final Design & Permitting $4,875,528
4 Construction & Commissioning $48,348,280
TOTAL PROJECT COST $59,067,808
Kenai Hydro has received $2,100,000 in grant funds. Homer Electric has spent or committed to
spend $3,744,000. It is anticipated that the balance of funds will come from a combination of
financing, Federal grants, State grants, private grants and possible Legislative appropriation.
3.2.2 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. 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 at 907-771-3031 or by emailing the Grants
Administrator, Shawn Calfa, at scalfa@aidea.org.
Milestone or Task
RE- Fund
Grant
Funds
Grantee
Matching
Funds
Source of Matching Funds:
Cash/In-kind/Federal
Grants/Other State
Grants/Other
TOTALS
(List milestones based on phase
and type of project. See sections
2.3 thru 2.6 of the RFA )
Phase III
LICENSING, LAND
ACQUSITION & PERMITTING $995,680 $181,247 Cash $1,176,927
FINAL ENGINEERING $3,004,320 $544,278 Cash $3,548,598
KENAI HYDRO PM & ADMIN $ $150,000 In-Kind $150,000
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
TOTALS $4,000,000 $875,528 $4,875,525
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Budget Categories:
Direct Labor & Benefits $ $150,000 $150,000
Travel & Per Diem $ $ $
Equipment $ $ $
Materials & Supplies $ $ $
Contractual Services $4,000,000 $725,525 $4,725,525
Construction Services $ $ $
Other $ $ $
TOTALS $4,000,000 $875,525 $4,875,525
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Milestone or Task
RE- Fund
Grant
Funds
Grantee
Matching
Funds
Source of Matching
Funds:
Cash/In-kind/Federal
Grants/Other State
Grants/Other
TOTALS
(List milestones based on phase
and type of project. See sections
2.3 thru 2.6 of the RFA )
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
TOTALS $ $ $
Budget Categories:
Direct Labor & Benefits $ $ $
Travel & Per Diem $ $ $
Equipment $ $ $
Materials & Supplies $ $ $
Contractual Services $ $ $
Construction Services $ $ $
Other $ $ $
TOTALS $ $ $
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Milestone or Task
RE- Fund
Grant
Funds
Grantee
Matching
Funds
Source of Matching
Funds:
Cash/In-kind/Federal
Grants/Other State
Grants/Other
TOTALS
(List milestones based on phase
and type of project. See sections
2.3 thru 2.6 of the RFA )
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
TOTALS $ $ $
Budget Categories:
Direct Labor & Benefits $ $ $
Travel & Per Diem $ $ $
Equipment $ $ $
Materials & Supplies $ $ $
Contractual Services $ $ $
Construction Services $ $ $
Other $ $ $
TOTALS $ $ $
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Milestone or Task
RE- Fund
Grant
Funds
Grantee
Matching
Funds
Source of Matching
Funds:
Cash/In-kind/Federal
Grants/Other State
Grants/Other
TOTALS
(List milestones based on phase
and type of project. See sections
2.3 thru 2.6 of the RFA )
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
TOTALS $ $ $
Budget Categories:
Direct Labor & Benefits $ $ $
Travel & Per Diem $ $ $
Equipment $ $ $
Materials & Supplies $ $ $
Contractual Services $ $ $
Construction Services $ $ $
Other $ $ $
TOTALS $ $ $
3.2.3 Cost Justification
Indicate the source(s) of the cost estimates used for the project budget.
In developing the budget estimates for final engineering and construction, the recent hands on
experience at the Allison Creek and Blue Lake Hydroelectric projects was used as the basis for
developing the Grant Lake Project cost estimates. The understanding gained from these projects
of the environmental, regulatory, and FERC requirements for the design and construction of a
hydroelectric project in the State of Alaska were applied to ensure a comprehensive and
representative project cost. The site specific challenges for construction at the Grant Lake project
were also incorporated into the estimate including establishing access, short construction windows,
challenging weather conditions, and manpower/equipment acquisition. Specific assumptions and
sources used in developing the estimate included the following:
Equipment costs for the turbine/generator equipment were obtained from manufacturers for the
proposed two unit powerhouse configuration. Quotes assumed a water-to-wire package which
included all required mechanical and electrical equipment for the powerhouse. These budget
estimates were then compared to other similar constructed projects to ensure consistency.
Tunnel costs were based on the actual completed production rates for the Allison Creek and Blue
Lake tunnels. Estimated both the linear foot cost as well as cubic yard cost to determine average
cost per linear foot. Rock projected at Grant Lake is similar to that found at Allison.
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Transmission line costs were based on actual bids received for Allison Creek, which were then
adjusted to account for easier access for the line construction, as compared to the Allison where
access had to be constructed.
Substation costs were developed based on actual costs for the Allison and Blue Lake equipment
and field construction at Allison which has a similar powerhouse size.
Powerhouse costs were developed based on a developed footprint of the powerhouse and unit
costs developed for similar projects for concrete placement, powerhouse building, etc. The Allison
Creek project provided a solid basis for production rates such as concrete placement, excavation,
and building costs including electrical and balance of plant.
General conditions and mobilization/demobilization costs were based on actual costs from the
Allison and Blue Lake projects for equipment and materials shipment from Seattle via barge.
Housing and administrative costs were developed reflecting the short summer construction season
and limited housing availability near the project site.
Engineering costs were developed based on a detailed scope and labor breakdown to reflect the
Grant Lake Project. Specifically, the engineering level of detail and documentation to meet FERC
expectations was incorporated into the estimate.
Construction administration and supervision costs were developed based on the FERC
requirements for the Allison Creek and Blue Lake project. Staffing levels were developed to
provide a FERC mandated level of oversight in the field. Office engineering support was reflective
of the actual level of effort required for the Allison and Blue Lake projects.
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3.2.4 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 $4,000,000
Cash match to be provided $725,528
In-kind match to be provided $150,000
Total costs for project phase(s) covered in application (sum of above) $4,875,528
3.2.5 Total Project Costs
Indicate the anticipated total cost by phase of the project (including all funding sources). Use actual
costs for completed phases.
Reconnaissance $131,442
Feasibility and Conceptual Design $5,712,558
Final Design and Permitting $4,875,528
Construction $48,348,280
Total Project Costs (sum of above) $59,067,808
3.2.6 Operating and Maintenance Costs
O&M costs can be estimated in two ways for the standard application. Most proposed RE 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.
Options O&M Impact of proposed RE project
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.
$
Option 2: Diesel generation OFF
For projects that will result in shutting down
diesel generation please estimate:
1. Annual non-fuel savings of shutting off
diesel generation
2. Estimated hours that diesel generation
will be off per year.
3. Annual O&M costs associated with the
proposed renewable project.
1. $
2. Hours diesel OFF/year:
3. $
3.3 Project Communications
Criteria: Stage 2-1.C: The applicant’s communications plan, including monitoring and reporting, is
described in adequate detail.
Describe how you plan to monitor the project and keep the Authority informed of the status.
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Project management and financial control will issue reports to AEA on a mutually agreeable schedule
throughout the life of the grant. These reports can be customized to meet AEA needs.
Additionally, AEA can access the Kenai Hydro website (www.kenaihydro.com) that serves as a
conduit for information, including a library of existing information, a calendar of events, and a
repository for contact information for interested parties.
Alternative Contact:
Bradley P. Janorschke, General Manager
(907) 283-2312
bjanorschke@homerelectric.com
3.4 Operational Logistics
Criteria: Stage 2-1.D: Logistical, business, and financial arrangements for operating and maintaining
the project throughout its lifetime and selling energy from the completed project are reasonable and
described in adequate detail.
Describe the anticipated logistical, business, and financial arrangements for operating and
maintaining the project throughout its lifetime and selling energy from the completed project.
The facility will be remotely operated and monitored from the existing HEA Dispatch Center which
is manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Scheduled monthly site inspection,
planned and unplanned maintenance will be conducted by HEA’s exiting roving Operations &
Maintenance crew that currently maintains and operates HEA’s unmanned thermal generation
plants in Nikiski, Soldotna and Seldovia, Alaska. Existing personnel will provide the labor needed
to operate and maintain the facility. Existing company vehicles, tooling and equipment currently
utilized by the roving operations and maintenance crew will be utilized to conduct onsite work.
Electricity generated at the Project would be transmitted via Chugach Electric’s 115-kV
transmission line that extends from the Lawing Substation near the Project to the Quartz Creek
Substation where it enters HEA’s transmission and distribution system. The Project would become
an integral component of HEA’s overall generation portfolio. Except for the small amount of
electricity used to power the auxiliary Project equipment and facilities, the power generated by the
Project would be dispatched as a part of the entire HEA generation system. The Project generation
would be pooled with other HEA generation resources and shared among retail and wholesale
purchasers. As with all generation resources available to HEA, the Project would be dispatched
economically to minimize total generation costs while meeting, licensing requirements, reliability
requirements and contractual service obligations. KHL’s objective in operating the Project is to
optimize HEA’s ability to meet load throughout the integrated system, balancing its hydro and
thermal energy sources. Within the constraints of the licensed operating levels, KHL would operate
the Project in the temporal mode most advantageous to the system. The energy from the Project
would primarily be used for base load as well as taking advantage of any available spinning
reserve. It would occasionally be used for peaking where appropriate. This added source of
generation that is quite distant from other generation sources on the Railbelt grid will improve
power quality, reduce voltage drop and provide a generation source to an area of the system that
would otherwise be susceptible to an outage with a single transmission line interruption.
Additionally, the location of the Project that is near the boundaries of two other electric utilities that
currently wheel power across HEA’s systems, sets up the possibility that future, mutually beneficial
wheeling arrangements may be possible.
SECTION 4 – QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
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4.1 Project Team
Criteria: Stage 2-2.A: The Applicant, partners, and/or contractors have sufficient knowledge and
experience to successfully complete and operate the project. If the applicant has not yet chosen a
contractor to complete the work, qualifications and experience points will be based on the applicant’s
capacity to successfully select contractors and manage complex contracts.
Criteria: Stage 2-2.B: The project team has staffing, time, and other resources to successfully
complete and operate the project.
Criteria: Stage 2-2.C: The project team is able to understand and address technical, economic, and
environmental barriers to successful project completion and operation.
Criteria: Stage 2-2.D: The project team has positive past grant experience.
4.1.1 Project Manager
Indicate who will be managing the project for the Grantee and include contact information, and a
resume. In the electronic submittal, please submit resumes as separate PDFs if the applicant would
like those excluded from the web posting of this application. 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.
Mr. Mike Salzetti will continue in his role as project manager. Mike has been with the Grant Lake
Hydroelectric project since June of 2010. He has over 14 years of project management experience
and played an integral role in the design of Homer Electric’s new generation facilities.
Mr. Salzetti’s contact information in shown in Section 1.1 of this application and his professional
qualifications are included.
Mr. Salzetti has the guidance, support, staffing, and resources of Homer Electric Association, the
sole owner of Kenai Hydro LLC, to support him in all phases of this project.
4.1.2 Expertise and Resources
Describe the project team including the applicant, partners, and contractors. Provide sufficient detail
for reviewers to evaluate:
• the extent to which the team has sufficient knowledge and experience to successfully
complete and operate the project;
• whether the project team has staffing, time, and other resources to successfully complete
and operate the project;
• how well the project team is able to understand and address technical, economic, and
environmental barriers to successful project completion and operation.
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. Include brief resumes for known key personnel and contractors 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
Mr. Mike Salzetti will be responsible for project management and direct oversight of the project
development. He has the guidance, support and staffing of his parent organization for managing
this project from its current state through final project design and permitting.
Kenai Hydro LLC, whose sole member is the Homer Electric Association (HEA), was created to
evaluate and develop the site as a low impact hydroelectric facility. Kenai Hydro, LLC has contracted
well-qualified consultants to conduct the natural resources studies, engineering feasibility
assessments and licensing consultation services.
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Kenai Hydro will continue its successful partnership with McMillen (formerly Long View Associates)
as a licensing and permitting consultant. Mr. Cory Warnock with McMillen who has been involved
with the project since 2011 will continue in his role as Licensing & Permitting Consultant, his resume
and qualifications are attached. In addition to their role as Licensing Consultant, McMillen was the
lead contractor in the natural resources study effort to bring this phase of the project in on time and
under budget.
The final design contract will be awarded on a competitive bid process per established HEA policies.
4.1.3 Project Accountant(s)
Indicate who will be performing the accounting of this project for the grantee and include a resume.
In the electronic submittal, please submit resumes as separate PDFs if the applicant would like those
excluded from the web posting of this application. If the applicant does not have a project accountant
indicate how you intend to solicit financial accounting support.
Diana Imlay, Accounting Supervisor
907-235-3397
dimlay@homerelectric.com
Resume attached.
4.1.4 Financial Accounting System
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
Renewable Energy Fund Grant Program.
South Eastern Data Corporation (SEDC). Julia Clymer, Controller
4.2 Local Workforce
Criteria: Stage 2-2.E: The project uses local labor and trains a local labor workforce.
Describe how the project will use local labor or train a local labor workforce.
In the construction of the project, HEA Management Directives governing contracting and
procurement will be followed. These directives include consideration for such things as material
procurement from pre-qualified businesses operating on the Kenai Peninsula, possession of an
Alaska Business license, maintenance of an office and staff within Alaska and advertisements in
general circulation publications as defined by Alaska State Statutes that promote local contracting
and procurement.
For operations and maintenance of the facility once it is constructed, existing local HEA employees
will remotely operate and monitor the facility from the existing HEA Dispatch Center which is
manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Scheduled monthly site inspection,
planned and unplanned maintenance will be conducted by HEA’s exiting roving Operations &
Maintenance crew that currently maintains and operates HEA’s unmanned thermal generation
plants in Nikiski, Soldotna and Seldovia, Alaska. Existing local personnel will provide the labor
needed to operate and maintain the facility. Existing company vehicles, tooling and equipment
currently utilized by the roving operations and maintenance crew will be utilized to conduct onsite
work.
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SECTION 5 – TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY
5.1 Resource Availability
Criteria: Stage 2-3.A: The renewable energy resource is available on a sustainable basis, and project
permits and other authorizations can reasonably be obtained.
5.1.1 Proposed Energy Resource
Describe the potential extent/amount of the energy resource that is available, including average
resource availability on an annual basis. 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. 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.
Using the hydrology data and the habitat parameters identified in the natural resources studies,
KHL’s consultant (McMillen), developed an operational study. An energy generation model was then
developed to simulate the Project under these proposed operations. Utilizing the average daily
inflows from the composite hydrology record, the anticipated annual energy production would be
19,500,000 kilowatt-hours. A copy of the Project Operations and Fisheries Habitat Technical Memo
documenting this work is attached to the grant application.
Pros
Hydropower is renewable, long-lived, efficient, dispatchable and environmentally responsible energy
that emits no greenhouse gases, waste or air pollution. It uses readily available technologies, it is
low maintenance, displaces consumption of fossil fuels, and it provides long-term price stability to
energy consumers. This particular facility could greatly enhance HEA’s spinning reserve capacity
which provides an additional fuel savings.
Hydropower opportunities on the Kenai Peninsula are extremely limited; potential resources have
been catalogued by the US Geological Survey – Water Resources of Alaska. Proximity to the
Railbelt grid, low impact and available energy recommend a Grant Lake hydro facility to be atop the
short list of viable Kenai Peninsula renewable resources.
The most expedient solution to local energy needs is construction of natural gas-fired generation.
These units are less expensive to procure and install, require a much shorter time to permit, and
have a relatively small footprint compared to hydro power. However, gas-fired units are not
sustainable, subject to market-driven fuel pricing and availability, shorter lived, cost more to operate
and maintain, and emit greenhouse gases.
Cons
Disadvantages of hydropower include high initial investment, relatively long time required to
permit/license, and potential impact on habitats and water quality.
Included with this application is the Draft FERC License Application consisting of the following items:
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Content Definitions 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Cover Letter 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 InitialStmt 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit A (Project Description) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit B (Project Operations & Resource Utilization) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit C (Construction Schedule) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit D (Project Costs & Financing) 03-27-15 FINAL
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GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit E (Environmental Analysis) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit F (General Design Drawings & Reports) 03-27-15 FINAL (Public)
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit G (Project Boundary Maps) 03-27-15 FINAL
Pursuant to 18 CFR §4.39(e), Exhibit F design drawings showing major structures, as well as the
Preliminary Supporting Design Report, were filed separately with FERC as Critical Energy
Infrastructure Information (CEII). Procedures for obtaining access to CEII may be found at 18 CFR
§388.113. Requests for access to CEII should be made to the FERC’s CEII Coordinator.
5.1.2 Permits
Provide the following information as it may relate to permitting and how you intend to address
outstanding permit issues.
• List of applicable permits
• Anticipated permitting timeline
• Identify and describe potential barriers
Permits
• A permit to invoke the Traditional License Program has been granted by FERC
• A 1st & 2nd Preliminary Permit has been granted by FERC
• A FERC Draft License Application 3/2015
• A FERC Final License Application 12/2015
• 404 Permit 4/2017
• USDA Forest Service, Special Use Permit 4/2017
• NPDES Permit 4/2017
•
No known potential barriers
5.2 Project Site
Criteria: Stage 2-3.B: A site is available and suitable for the proposed energy system.
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.
The legal description and ownership of lands (ADNR 2006) within the proposed project boundary
are provided in the table below. All land is referenced to the Seward Meridian. Un-shaded rows
pertain to the Grant Lake outlet and Grant Creek. Shaded rows include Grant Lake in its entirety
and potential transmission areas.
KHL will need to work with the Alaska Department of Natural Resources (ADNR) to obtain the
appropriate easements and / or leases from the ADNR. This will require working with ADNR to
determine if there are any conflicts within the current management and permitting guidelines within
the Kenai River Comprehensive Management Plan (KRCMP) and the Kenai Area Plan (KAP) and if
there are conflicts working with the appropriate entities to get amendments or MOUs that address
the conflicts and allow ADNR permits, leases, easements and / or rights to be obtained.
KHL has made extensive progress with respect to developing a mutually acceptable re-route of the
proposed Iditarod National Historic Trail (INHT) through the Grant Lake Hydroelectric Project Area.
KHL will continuing work with the USFS and other Agencies on a re-routed easement for the INHT.
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An Alaska Railroad Corp., Access Road & Transmission Line ROW Crossing will be required.
Additional Transmission Line Right-of-Way, lease or purchase agreements will be required
ADNR, Water Rights will be required.
It does not appear that any facilities of infrastructure will be located on the two private land parcels.
Township Range Section Ownership
5N 1W 36 Private
5N 1E 27 USDA Forest Service
5N 1E 28 USDA Forest Service
5N 1E 29 USDA Forest Service
5N 1E 30 State patented land
5N 1E 31 State patented land
5N 1E 32 State patented land
5N 1E 33 USDA Forest Service
5N 1E 34 USDA Forest Service
5N 1E 35 USDA Forest Service
5N 1E 36 USDA Forest Service
4N 1E 1 USDA Forest Service
4N 1E 2 USDA Forest Service
4N 1E 3 USDA Forest Service
4N 1E 5 USDA Forest Service
4N 1E 6 State patented land
4N 1E 7 State patented land
4N 1W 1 Private
4N 1W 12 Private
5.3 Project Risk
Criteria: Stage 2-3.C: Project technical and environmental risks are reasonable.
5.3.1 Technical Risk
Describe potential technical risks and how you would address them.
Kenai Hydro is very encouraged by the natural resources study results for this project and the
proposed operating scenario resulting from this information. Kenai Hydro has engaged in significant
and positive consultation and collaboration with Stakeholders and believes that all issues that have
been identified can be addressed with a suite of protection, mitigation and enhancement (PM&E)
measures and engineered solutions that are identified in the Draft License Application and Draft
Management Plans and will be further refined in the Final FERC License Application.
The Project has no know technical risks at this time.
5.3.2 Environmental Risk
Explain whether the following environmental and land use issues apply, and if so how they will be
addressed:
• Threatened or endangered species
• Habitat issues
• Wetlands and other protected areas
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• Archaeological and historical resources
• Land development constraints
• Telecommunications interference
• Aviation considerations
• Visual, aesthetics impacts
• Identify and describe other potential barriers
An extensive suite of natural resources studies have been completed on this project. The results of
these studies are included with this grant application in the following reports:
• Grant Lk Fisheries Assessment Final Report
• Grant Lk Geomorphology Final Report
• Grant Lk IFIM Final Report
• Grant Lk Macroinvertebrate Final Report
• Grant Lk RecVis Final Report
• Grant Lk Terr Final Report June
• Grant Lk WQ-Hydrology Final Report
* A Cultural Resources report was completed but due to the sensitive nature of its content it was not
included with the grant application.
Kenai Hydro is very encouraged by the natural resources study results for this project and the
proposed operating scenario resulting from this information. Kenai Hydro has engaged in
significant and positive consultation and collaboration with Stakeholders and believes that all
issues that have been identified can be addressed with a suite of protection, mitigation and
enhancement (PM&E) measures and engineered solutions that will be identified in the Draft and
Final License Applications.
5.4 Existing and Proposed Energy System
Criteria: Stage 2-3.D: The proposed energy system can reliably produce and deliver energy as
planned.
5.4.1 Basic Configuration of Existing Energy System
Describe the basic configuration of the existing energy system. Include information about the
number, size, age, efficiency, and type of generation.
Nikiski Combined Cycle Plant (Steam/Gas) 80 MW CT 1984, ST 2014
Soldotna Combustion Turbine Plant (Gas) 48 MW 2014
Bernice Lake Combustion Turbine Plant (Gas) 80 MW 3 Units 1971, 1978, 1981
Bradley Lake Hydroelectric Project (hydro) 14 MW 1991
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Existing Energy Generation and Usage
a) Basic configuration (if system is part of the Railbelt 1 grid, leave this section blank)
i. Number of generators/boilers/other
ii. Rated capacity of generators/boilers/other
iii. Generator/boilers/other type
iv. Age of generators/boilers/other
v. Efficiency of generators/boilers/other
vi. Is there operational heat recovery? (Y/N) If yes
estimated annual displaced heating fuel (gallons)
b) Annual O&M cost (if system is part of the Railbelt grid, leave this section blank)
i. Annual O&M cost for labor
ii. Annual O&M cost for non-labor
c) Annual electricity production and fuel usage (fill in as applicable) (if system is part of the
Railbelt grid, leave this section blank)
i. Electricity [kWh]
ii. Fuel usage
Diesel [gal]
Other
iii. Peak Load
iv. Average Load
v. Minimum Load
vi. Efficiency
vii. Future trends
d) Annual heating fuel usage (fill in as applicable)
i. Diesel [gal or MMBtu]
ii. Electricity [kWh]
iii. Propane [gal or MMBtu]
iv. Coal [tons or MMBtu]
v. Wood [cords, green tons, dry tons]
vi. Other
N/A
1 The Railbelt grid connects all customers of Chugach Electric Association, Homer Electric Association, Golden Valley Electric
Association, the City of Seward Electric Department, Matanuska Electric Association and Anchorage Municipal Light and Power.
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5.4.2 Future Trends
Describe the anticipated energy demand in the community over the life of the project.
HEA has over 22,400 member-owners and provides power to over 33,300 meters located throughout
the Kenai Peninsula. HEA sold 465 million kilowatt-hours of electricity in 2014 and its latest
published Equity Management Plan indicates a 1% per year growth rate over the next 15 years.
Predictions beyond this time frame are very difficult but HEA has no indication that this gradual
increase in load would not continue for the 100 year plus life expectancy of this project.
Additionally, HEA is interconnected to a regional Alaskan grid known as the “Railbelt” via a three
phase, 115 kV transmission line. The Railbelt is generally defined as the service areas of six
regulated public utilities: Anchorage Municipal Light & Power (ML&P), Chugach Electric Association
(Chugach), Golden Valley Electric Association (GVEA), HEA, Matanuska Electric Association (MEA),
and the City of Seward Electric System (SES). This region covers a significant area of the state and
contains the majority of the state’s population and economic activity; it extends from Homer to
Fairbanks and includes areas such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, and the Matanuska-Susitna Valley.
HEA can provide power to Alaskan residents from Anchorage to Fairbanks via wholesale and
economy energy sales to the other five interconnected electric utilities.
Also, HEA could experience a significant load growth if the proposed Alaska LNG project comes to
fruition.
5.4.3 Impact on Rates
Briefly explain what if any effect your project will have on electrical rates in the proposed benefit area
over the life of the project. For PCE eligible communities, please describe the expected impact would
be for both pre and post PCE.
Depending on available grant funds, Legislative appropriations, long term financing rates and term,
it is estimated that the project will not negatively impact rates and could potentially help to stabilize
rates. Over the long term, 50 to 100 years out the project will reduce electric rates.
5.4.4 Proposed System Design
Provide the following information for the proposed renewable energy system:
• A description of renewable energy technology specific to project location
• Optimum installed capacity
• Anticipated capacity factor
• Anticipated annual generation
• Anticipated barriers
• Integration plan
• Delivery methods
The proposed Project consists of constructing a new 5-Megawatt hydroelectric facility on Grant Lake
and Grant Creek near Moose Pass, Alaska. The new Project would divert water from Grant Lake
and deliver the flow to a powerhouse located near the outlet of the existing Grant Creek natural,
incised rock canyon downstream from Reach 5. The Project would include the following major
components:
• An intake structure in Grant Lake.
• A tunnel extending from the lake intake to just east of the powerhouse.
• A penstock and surge tank located at the west end of the tunnel.
• A powerhouse with two Francis turbines providing a combined 5-Megawatt output. The
maximum design flow will be approximately 385 cfs.
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• Tailrace detention pond.
• Switchyard with disconnect switch and step-up transformer.
• An overhead or underground transmission line.
• Access road from the Seward Highway to the powerhouse and extending up to the intake
structure at Grant Lake.
• A pole mounted disconnect switch where the transmission line intersects the main power
transmission line.
The layout has been revised to minimize the Project footprint. The current design does not include
the construction of a diversion structure (dam) at the outlet of Grant Lake. All 13-feet of storage that
will be utilized for power generation will be drawn from below the natural lake outlet. The tailrace
channel, which returns flow from the powerhouse to Grant Creek, will be located at the upstream of
Reach 4. This tailrace location ensures that the reaches with the best natural habitat for fish will not
be dewatered. The detention pond will be utilized to allow the powerhouse to meet the spin
requirements without resulting in drastic changes to in-channel flows.
Anticipated Capacity Factor of 45%
Anticipated Annual Generation of 19,500,000 Kwh
Anticipated Barriers – None
The power would be integrated via economic dispatch through HEA’s dispatch system
Power would be delivered to the Railbelt grid via a one mile long transmission line from the
powerhouse to existing transmission infrastructure located along the Seward Highway.
Proposed System Design Capacity and Fuel Usage
(Include any projections for continued use of non-renewable fuels)
a) Proposed renewable capacity (Wind,
Hydro, Biomass, other)
[kW or MMBtu/hr]
5 MW
b) Proposed annual electricity or heat production (fill in as applicable)
i. Electricity [kWh] 19,500,000 kWh
ii. Heat [MMBtu]
c) Proposed annual fuel usage (fill in as applicable)
i. Propane [gal or MMBtu] N/A
ii. Coal [tons or MMBtu]
iii. Wood or pellets [cords, green tons,
dry tons]
iv. Other
d) i. Estimate number of hours renewable
will allow powerhouse to turn diesel engines
off (fill in as applicable)
5.4.5 Metering Equipment
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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.
HEA has standardized on a Schneider Electric ION 7330 meter part number M7330A0B0C0E0A0A
(20-65 VDC power supply). The cost of which is included in the construction cost estimate.
SECTION 6 – ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY AND BENEFITS
6.1 Economic Feasibility
Criteria: Stage 2-4.A: The project is shown to be economically feasible (net positive savings in fuel,
operation and maintenance, and capital costs over the life of the proposed project).
6.1.1 Economic Benefit
Explain the economic benefits of your project. Include direct cost savings, and how the people of
Alaska will benefit from the project. The benefits information should include the following:
• Anticipated annual and lifetime fuel displacement (gallons and dollars)
• Anticipated annual and lifetime revenue (based on i.e. a Proposed Power Purchase Agreement
price, RCA tariff, or cost based rate)
• Additional incentives (i.e. tax credits)
• Additional revenue streams (i.e. green tag sales or other renewable energy subsidies or
programs that might be available)
The economic model used by AEA is available at
http://www.akenergyauthority.org/Programs/Renewable-Energy-Fund/Rounds#round9. 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.
Potential Fuel Displacement
According to the AEA Economic Model, it is estimated that $171,628,469 can be saved in avoided
fuel cost over the first 50-year of the project.
Anticipated Annual Revenue
4th quarter 2014 HEA rates were $0.22029 / Kwh. At 19,500,000 Kwh per year the annual revenue
would be $4,295,655. With no escalation in rates this would result in a 50 year lifetime revenue
value of $214,782,750 and a 100 year lifetime revenue value of $429,565,500.
Potential Additional Annual Incentives
The potential tax credits are purely speculative, and will depend on the form of the business entity
that carries the project into licensing, construction and operation.
Potential Additional Annual Revenue Streams
It may be possible to sell Renewable Energy Credits engendered by this project.
The renewable energy will incrementally stabilize the long term price of power providing an attractive
incentive to potential local businesses.
It may also be possible to sell spinning reserve capacity from this asset when HEA is not utilizing the
spin from this facility.
6.1.2 Power Purchase/Sale
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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
• Proposed rate of return from grant-funded project
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.
Energy from the project will be sold to Homer Electric Association (HEA) for the benefit of its
customers at prevailing rates. It should be noted that the project would incrementally stabilize long
term electricity rates. It is likely that the acceptable rate-of-return will be kept to single-digit margins.
A secondary market is other Railbelt utilities.
6.1.3 Public Benefit for Projects with Private Sector Sales
For projects that include 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.
N/A
Renewable energy resource availability (kWh per month) N/A
Estimated sales (kWh)
Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use at private sector businesses ($)
Estimated sales (kWh)
Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use by the Alaskan public ($)
6.2 Financing Plan
Criteria: Stage 2-4.B: The project has an adequate financing plan for completion of the grant-funded
phase and has considered options for financing subsequent phases of the project.
6.2.1 Additional Funds
Identify the source and amount of all additional funds needed to complete the work in the phase(s)
for which REF funding is being applied in this application. Indicate whether these 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.
Phase III grant request is for $4,000,000.
Per the attached HEA Board Resolution 45201532, HEA will match the grant funds with $725,528 of
cash and $150,000 of in-kind administrative and project management labor.
6.2.2 Financing opportunities/limitations
If the proposed project includes final design or construction phases, what are your opportunities
and/or limitations to fund this project with a loan, bonds, or other financing options?
Total anticipated project cost $59,067,808, Phase III anticipated costs $4,875,528
Phase III grant request is for $4,000,000.
Kenai Hydro will match the grant funds with $725,528 of cash and $150,000 of in-kind administrative
and project management labor.
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Kenai Hydro has received $2,100,000 in previous renewable energy grant funds for Phase I & II
work. Homer Electric has spent or committed to spend $3,744,000. It is anticipated that the balance
of funds will come from a combination of financing, Federal grants, State grants, private grants and
possible Legislative appropriation.
6.2.3 Cost Overruns
Describe the plan to cover potential cost increases or shortfalls in funding.
The cost estimates for this project were based upon the recent hands on experience at the Allison
Creek and Blue Lake Hydroelectric projects. The understanding gained from these projects of the
environmental, regulatory, and FERC requirements for the design and construction of a
hydroelectric project in the State of Alaska were applied to ensure a comprehensive and
representative project cost. The site specific challenges for construction at the Grant Lake project
were also incorporated into the estimate including establishing access, short construction windows,
challenging weather conditions, and manpower/equipment acquisition.
Equipment costs for the turbine/generator equipment were obtained from manufacturers for the
proposed two unit powerhouse configuration. Quotes assumed a water-to-wire package which
included all required mechanical and electrical equipment for the powerhouse. These budget
estimates were then compared to other similar constructed projects to ensure consistency.
Tunnel costs were based on the actual completed production rates for the Allison Creek and Blue
Lake tunnels. Estimated both the linear foot cost as well as cubic yard cost to determine average
cost per linear foot. Rock projected at Grant Lake is similar to that found at Allison.
Transmission line costs were based on actual bids received for Allison Creek, which were then
adjusted to account for easier access for the line construction, as compared to the Allison where
access had to be constructed.
Substation costs were developed based on actual costs for the Allison and Blue Lake equipment
and field construction at Allison which has a similar powerhouse size.
Powerhouse costs were developed based on a developed footprint of the powerhouse and unit
costs developed for similar projects for concrete placement, powerhouse building, etc. The Allison
Creek project provided a solid basis for production rates such as concrete placement, excavation,
and building costs including electrical and balance of plant.
General conditions and mobilization/demobilization costs were based on actual costs from the
Allison and Blue Lake projects for equipment and materials shipment from Seattle via barge.
Housing and administrative costs were developed reflecting the short summer construction season
and limited housing availability near the project site.
Engineering costs were developed based on a detailed scope and labor breakdown to reflect the
Grant Lake Project. Specifically, the engineering level of detail and documentation to meet FERC
expectations was incorporated into the estimate.
Construction administration and supervision costs were developed based on the FERC
requirements for the Allison Creek and Blue Lake project. Staffing levels were developed to
provide a FERC mandated level of oversight in the field. Office engineering support was reflective
of the actual level of effort required for the Allison and Blue Lake projects.
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While this hard look at project costs resulted in a significant increase to original cost estimates, KHL
is confident that the provided cost estimates are accurate, and that the project can be built for this
amount with little chance of cost over-runs.
6.2.4 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.
It is anticipated that the balance of funds will come from a combination of financing, Federal grants,
State grants, private grants and possible Legislative appropriation.
6.3 Other Public Benefit
Criteria: Stage 3-4.C: Other benefits to the Alaska public are demonstrated. Avoided costs alone will
not be presumed to be in the best interest of the public.
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
Energy from the Grant Lake Project would reduce the consumption of carbon-based energy
sources, thereby helping to improve air quality in Kenai Peninsula and conserve the Cook Inlet’s
limited supply of natural gas. In the first 50 years of operation this project will reduce the amount
of CO2 released on the Kenai Peninsula by over 500,000 tons. This renewable energy would
also assist in stabilizing the long term price of power to consumers, and it would be a significant
step in diversifying HEA’s generation portfolio and would assist in the State of Alaska’s state
renewable energy goal.
As with most hydroelectric facilities, this project has high upfront costs. However, in the first 50
years of existence the project shows an NPV Net Benefit of $14,497,040 with a B/C Ratio of 1.27.
These values are conservative in nature because they do not account for current and future grant
funds or potential Legislative appropriations possible for the project. Additionally the project
economics are based upon a 50 year life expectancy, however current estimates for hydroelectric
life expectancy stretch to 100 years. This project represents a long term invest in Alaska that
will produce clean, renewable power for Alaskans throughout this century.
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SECTION 7 – SUSTAINABILITY
Describe your plan for operating the completed project so that it will be sustainable throughout its
economic life.
Include at a minimum:
• Capability of the Applicant to demonstrate the capacity, both administratively and financially, to
provide for the long-term operation and maintenance of the proposed project
• Is the Applicant current on all loans and required reporting to state and federal agencies?
• Likelihood of the resource being available over the life of the project
• Likelihood of a sufficient market for energy produced over the life of the project
Operations and maintenance will be financed through typical utility accounting procedures using
revenue generated by the hydro facility and other utility cash flows. The facility would be essentially
unmanned requiring only periodic inspection and routine maintenance. Annual O &M costs are
anticipated to be about $112,551 (in 2014 dollar) per year which is easily supported by the projects
expected annual revenue.
SECTION 8 – PROJECT READINESS
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
The reconnaissance associated with Phase I was completed in 2009, the results of which suggested
pursuing feasibility work. To that end, Field Studies were initiated in 2009 and executed through
July of 2010. An authorization to proceed to licensing using the Traditional License Program was
granted by FERC on 9/15/2009. Numerous agency and interested shareholder forums have been
held, and public comment processes have been undertaken. The FERC scoping process has been
completed and FERC issued Scoping Document 2 for this project on 8/23/2010. Natural Resources
Study Plans were finalized in 2012 and those Plans were executed in 2013. The results of the
Natural Resources Studies were shared with Stakeholder and Agencies in early 2014. The summer
and fall of 2014 were spent in a collaborative approach to develop an acceptable operations scheme.
During the winter of 2014 - 2015 KHL developed a DLA and Draft Management Plan. The DLA was
issued for public comment in March of 2015. KHL anticipates filing a FLA with FERC in December
of 2015. Kenai Hydro maintains a website, www.kenaihydro.com that documents project progress.
Phase 1 Reconnaissance studies, which were completed in January 2009, were partially funded by
a $100,000 AEA grant. Kenai Hydro received partial funding for Phase II activities in the amount of
$2,000,000 through two separate awards of $816,000 and of $1,184,400 through AEA Renewable
Energy Grants.
As shown in Section 3.1 Project Schedule and Milestones, Kenai hydro has a detailed schedule to
start the Phase III work of Final Design and Permitting as soon as Grant funds are available if the
project is selected as a grant recipient.
SECTION 9 – LOCAL SUPPORT AND OPPOSITION
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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. The Documentation of support must be dated within one year of the RFA date of July
8, 2015.
As with all projects of this nature, the local public is somewhat polarized with respect to their
viewpoint. Some Moose Pass residents have expressed their support for the Project while others
are opposed.
The HEA board of directors, which represents approximately 22,400 member-owners, has shown
consistent support for renewable energy projects. Additionally, HEA has been encouraged by its
members to explore alternative sources of sustainable power supply, lessen its reliance on natural
gas fuel, and stabilize rates.
Attached you will find letters of support for this project from Speaker of the Alaska State House,
Representative Mike Chenault and Alaska State Representative Kurt Olson (jointly signed); Alaska
State Representative Paul Seaton; Alaska State Senator Peter Micciche and the Kenai Peninsula
Economic District that were submitted with last year’s Round VIII application. KHL checked with
these individuals and entities to ensure that it was ok to resubmit there 2014 letters with the 2015
Round IX grant application. Since Alaska State Senator Cathy Giessel’s district was modified,
Senator Giessel choose to reissue her letter of support.
SECTION 10 – COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER AWARDS
Identify other grants that may have been previously awarded to the Applicant by the Authority 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.
Phase 1 Reconnaissance studies, which were completed in January 2009, were partially funded by
a $100,000 AEA grant. Kenai Hydro received partial funding for Phase II activities in the amount of
$2,000,000 through two separate awards of $816,000 and of $1,184,400 through AEA Renewable
Energy Grants.
KHL complied with all terms of the grant agreements from previously award grants, which included
timely quarterly progress reports, delivery of agreed upon deliverables and closeout of the grants.
SECTION 11 – LIST OF SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION FOR PRIOR PHASES
In the space below please provide a list additional documents attached to support completion of prior
phases.
Grant Lk Fisheries Assessment Final Report
Grant Lk Geomorphology Final Report
Grant Lk IFIM Final Report
Grant Lk Macroinvertebrate Final Report
Grant Lk RecVis Final Report
Grant Lk Terr Final Report June
Grant Lk WQ-Hydrology Final Report
TM001-Grant Creek Hydrologic Analysis-Final
TM002-Grant Creek Hydraulic Analysis-Final
TM003-Grant Lake Hydroelectric Project Operations and Fisheries Habitat – Final
A Cultural Resources report was completed but due to the sensitive nature of its content it was not
included with the grant application.
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Kenai Hydro maintains a website, www.kenaihydro.com that contains additional supporting
documents.
As further support, KHL has attached the DLA as shown in Section 12 which is the culmination of
the Phase I & II work.
SECTION 12 – LIST OF ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION SUBMITTED FOR CONSIDERATION
In the space below please provide a list of additional information submitted for consideration.
Included with this application is the Draft FERC License Application consisting of the following
items:
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Content Definitions 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Cover Letter 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 InitialStmt 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit A (Project Description) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit B (Project Operations & Resource Utilization) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit C (Construction Schedule) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit D (Project Costs & Financing) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit E (Environmental Analysis) 03-27-15 FINAL
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit F (General Design Drawings & Reports) 03-27-15 FINAL
(Public)
GrantLk (P-13212) DLA Vl1 Exhibit G (Project Boundary Maps) 03-27-15 FINAL
Pursuant to 18 CFR §4.39(e), Exhibit F design drawings showing major structures, as well as the
Preliminary Supporting Design Report, were filed separately with FERC as Critical Energy
Infrastructure Information (CEII). Procedures for obtaining access to CEII may be found at 18 CFR
§388.113. Requests for access to CEII should be made to the FERC’s CEII Coordinator.
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SECTION 13 – AUTHORIZED SIGNERS FORM
Community/Grantee Name: Homer Electric Association, Inc.
Regular Election is held: Annually Date: May 4, 2016
Authorized Grant Signer(s):
Printed Name Title Term Signature
Bradley P. Janorschke General Manager N/A
I authorize the above person(s) to sign Grant Documents:
(Must be authorized by the highest ranking organization/community/municipal official)
Printed Name Title Term Signature
Bradley P. Janorschke General Manager N/A
Grantee Contact Information:
Mailing Address: 3977 Lake Street, Homer, Alaska 99603
Phone Number: 907-235-8551
Fax Number: 907-235-3323
E-mail Address: bjanorschke@homerelectric.com
Federal Tax ID #: 92-0014079
Please submit an updated form whenever there is a change to the above information.