HomeMy WebLinkAboutFalse Pass REF R7 FinalRenewable Energy Fund Round VII
Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 2014-006 Application Page 1 of 26 7/2/2013
Application Forms and Instructions
This instruction page and the following grant application constitutes the Grant Application Form
for Round VII 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/REFund7.html.
• If you need technical assistance filling out this application, please contact Shawn Calfa,
the Alaska Energy Authority Grant 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 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.
• 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.
• In the sections below, please enter responses in the spaces provided, often under the
section heading. 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.
• 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 is to be kept confidential the applicant must:
o Request the information be kept confidential.
o Clearly identify the information that is the trade secret or proprietary in their
application.
o Receive concurrence from the Authority that the information will be kept
confidential. If the Authority determines it is not confidential it will be treated as a
public record in accordance with AS 40.25 or returned to the applicant upon
request.
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Grant Application - Standard Form
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SECTION 1 – APPLICANT INFORMATION
Name (Name of utility, IPP, or government entity submitting proposal)
City of False Pass Electric Utility
Type of Entity: Local Government Fiscal Year End
Tax ID # 92-0135411 Tax Status: For-profit Non-profit Government ( check one)
Date of last financial statement audit:
Mailing Address
PO Box 50
False Pass, Alaska 99583
Physical Address
100 Main Street
False Pass, AK 99583
Telephone
907-548-2319
Fax
907-548-3314
Email
cityoffalsepass@ak.net
1.1 APPLICANT POINT OF CONTACT / GRANTS MANAGER
Name
Chris Emrich
Title
City Clerk
Mailing Address
PO Box 50
False Pass, Alaska 99583
Telephone
907-548-2319
Fax
907-548-2214
Email
cityoffalsepass@ak.net
1.2 APPLICANT MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Please check as appropriate. If you do not to meet the minimum applicant requirements, your
application will be rejected.
1.2.1 As an Applicant, we are: (put an X in the appropriate box)
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
X A local government, or
A governmental entity (which includes tribal councils and housing authorities);
Yes
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 or No in the box )
Yes
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).
Yes
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/veep/Grant-Template.pdf. (Any exceptions
should be clearly noted and submitted with the application.)
Yes
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.
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SECTION 2 – PROJECT SUMMARY
This section is intended to be no more than a 2-3 page overview of your project.
2.1 Project Title – (Provide a 4 to 7 word title for your project). Type in space below.
False Pass Wind Energy Project
2.2 Project Location –
Include the physical location of your project and name(s) of the community or communities that will
benefit from your project in the subsections below.
2.2.1 Location of Project – Latitude and longitude, 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.
False Pass is located on the eastern shore of Unimak Island on a strait connecting the Pacific
Gulf of Alaska to the Bering Sea. It is 646 air miles southwest of Anchorage.
N 54° 52.443' W 163° 24 .646', WGS 84
2.2.2 Community benefiting – Name(s) of the community or communities that will be the
beneficiaries of the project.
City of False Pass
2.3 PROJECT TYPE
Put X in boxes as appropriate
2.3.1 Renewable Resource Type
X 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
X Feasibility and Conceptual Design Construction and Commissioning
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2.4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Provide a brief one paragraph description of the proposed project.
False Pass currently produces all their electricity from diesel generators and heating from
burning fossil fuels. Analysis by Marsh Creek LLC confirms that, despite the ample Class 4 wind
resource, a Class 3 S designation is most appropriate. Turbulence from complex terrain
precludes a typical rural Alaskan wind project.
This project proposes feasibility completion funding to 1) fully assess commercially available
wind turbines for deployment in high turbulent locations and 2) expanding available wind
resource data at the 10 meter height on proposed sites and 3) revised Conceptual Design
Report (CDR) recommending the best turbine to proceed to design in Round 8.
Vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are potentially a mechanically and economically sound
upgrade to False Pass’s current diesel generator system. This project will consider ten (10) 5
kW Kelso VAWTs in comparison to the use of either the Xzeres Skystream and Bergie options.
The CDR recommendations will closely examine three potential turbines and research other
potential options. The Vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are potentially a mechanically and
economically sound upgrade to False Pass’s current diesel generator system. This project will
consider ten (10) 5 kW Kelso VAWTs in comparison to the use of either the Xzeres Skystream
and Bergie options.
This project seeks feasibility funding for the False Pass wind project. The feasibility
funding would allow for further site testing of wind resources at the proposed system height of
10M and heat recovery analysis. Conceptual Design Report Updates will include additional
HOMER analysis with wind resource data at the 10M height, Down East Heat Recovery
modeling, WASP modeling, wind turbine profiles, revised economic analysis and
recommendations.
2.5 PROJECT BENEFIT
Briefly discuss the financial and public benefits that will result from this project, (such as reduced fuel
costs, lower energy costs, local jobs created, etc.)
This project will reduce fuel and the overall energy costs for the City of False Pass. False
Pass currently produces all their electricity from diesel generators and heating from burning
fossil fuels. Little biomass is currently available to offset home heating and hydro in the local
streams and solar energy do not seem practical in False Pass. A 2005-2007 study conducted
by Marsh Creek indicates ample wind resources for vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs).
The reliance on diesel fuel and heating oil, and the rising cost and unpredictable price of both, is
the primary motivating factor in establishing alternative and sustainable energy sources. For
instance, in 2008 the City purchased 40,000 gallons of diesel #2 at $4.10/gal. One year later,
the same amount of Diesel was purchased for $2.29/gal. The current price of Diesel #2 is $3.45.
The proposed wind generation infrastructure in False Pass will help stabilize energy costs,
providing long-term socio-economic benefits to the city. With more affordable energy available
in the villages, more of the region’s households will be able to afford to stay in their
communities, promoting community stability and wellness and helping to stem the tide of rural
outmigration.
The vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) technology considered is a proven alternative to
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traditional turbines that are inefficient in turbulent, avian-sensitive areas. VAWTs have been
successfully deployed in similar rural communities such as Cold Bay. It remains to be seen if
Kelso VAWTs would outperform Xzeres Skystream and Bergie options in other rural Alaskan
communities.
The False Pass wind-diesel feasibility project would serve as a real-world test case to prove
vertical axis turbine effectiveness that could be employed at larger scales in other remote
Alaskan communities. Since this turbine design has already been proven, VAWT technology is
no longer emerging technology. Third party certification is anticipated in 2014. Installing VAWT
turbines would prove a great example of the Renewable Energy Fund (REF) and Emerging
Energy Technology Fund (EETF) programs complementing one another.
Other project benefits will include:
- Reducing dependence on diesel fuel and the expense involved in its transportation and
storage
- Saving on current operation and maintenance costs for current diesel generators
- Contributing to a reduction in air pollution and impact on climate change
2.6 PROJECT BUDGET OVERVIEW
Briefly discuss the amount of funds needed, the anticipated sources of funds, and the nature and source
of other contributions to the project.
Funding in the amount of $47,050.00 is requested from the Renewable Energy Fund for this
project. In-kind contribution in the amount of $5,000.00 is dedicated to this project. Total grant
costs sum to $52,050.00.
2.7 COST AND BENEFIT SUMARY
Include a summary of grant request and your project’s total costs and benefits below.
Grant Costs
(Summary of funds requested)
2.7.1 Grant Funds Requested in this application $ 47,050.00
2.7.2 Cash match to be provided $ 0
2.7.3 In-kind match to be provided $ 5,000
2.7.4 Other grant funds to be provided $ 0
2.7.5 Other grant applications not yet approved $ 0
2.7.6 Total Grant Costs (sum of 2.7.1 through 2.7.4) $ 52,050.00
Project Costs & Benefits
(Summary of total project costs including work to date and future cost estimates to get to a fully
operational project)
2.7.7 Total Project Cost Summary from Cost Worksheet, Section
4.4.4, including estimates through construction.
$ 52,050.00
2.7.8 Additional Performance Monitoring Equipment not covered
by the project but required for the Grant Only applicable to
construction phase projects.
$ N/A
2.7.9 Estimated Direct Financial Benefit (Savings) $ N/A
2.7.10 Other Public Benefit If you can calculate the benefit in terms $ N/A
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of dollars please provide that number here and explain how you
calculated that number in Section 5 below.
SECTION 3 – PROJECT MANAGEMENT PLAN
Describe who will be responsible for managing the project and provide a plan for successfully
completing the project within the scope, schedule and budget proposed in the application.
3.1 Project Manager
Tell us who will be managing the project for the Grantee and include contact information, a
resume and references for the manager(s). 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.
The project will be managed by the City of False Pass with progress reports and
assistance, as needed, provided by Marsh Creek LLC. Marsh Creek LLC has been
selected as the contractor for performance of all work described in Section 3.2 – Project
Schedule and Milestones. John Lyons of Marsh Creek will serve as the Project
Manager and will oversee all work performed by Marsh Creek. Marsh Creek’s
Community Relations Manager, Connie Fredenberg, will be responsible for maintaining
regular communications between the City of False Pass and Marsh Creek. Marsh
Creek’s Senior Project Coordinator Maggie McKay will be responsible for maintaining
communications between Marsh Creek and the Alaska Energy Authority including
quarterly progress reports and other communication methods as required in the grant
agreement. Josh Craft from Alaska Energy Authority has been included in the project to
assist in HOMER modeling as a no-cost addition to the project. Below is the anticipated
organization of project members.
Entity Contact Position Email Phone City of False Pass Chris
Emrich
City Clerk cityofflasepass@ak.net 907-548-2319 Marsh Creek, LLC John Lyons Project
Manager
John.lyons@marshcreekll
c.com
907-343-0408
Marsh Creek, LLC Maggie
McKay
Project
Coordinator
maggie.mckay@marshcr
eekllc.com
907-343-0407 V3 Energy, LLC Doug
Vaught
Wind
Engineer
dvaught@v3energy.com 907-350-5047 Marsh Creek, LLC Connie
Fredenberg
Community
Liaison
Connie.fredenberg@mars
hcreekllc.com
907-444-6220 Alaska Energy Authority Josh Craft Wind
Program
jcraft@aidea.org 907-771-3000
Attached are their resumes.
3.2 Project Schedule and Milestones
Please fill out the schedule below. Be sure to identify key tasks and decision points in in your
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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.
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Please fill out form provided below. You may add additional rows as needed.
Milestones Tasks Start Date End Date
FAA Permitting Apllication Apply for FAA permits 3/14/2014 4/13/2014
Heat Recovery & Met Tower Equipment 10M Tower #1 7/1/2014 8/1/2014
10M Tower #2
10M Tower #3
10M Tower #4
Heat Recovery Instrumentation
Heat Recovery & Met Tower Installation Install Tower #1 8/1/2014 8/6/2014
Install Tower #2
Install Tower #3
Install Tower #4
Install Heat Recovery Instrumentation
Gather Data Gather Data from Met towers and Heat recovery 8/7/2014 2/3/2015
Homer Analysis Initial Homer Analysis 2/3/2015 3/5/2015
Modeling WASP Modeling 3/6/2015 4/5/2015
Down East Heat Recovery Modeling
Homer Updates
CD Revisions Turbine selection 4/6/2015 5/6/2015
VAWT Analysisi
Skystream Analysis
Bergy Anlaysis
Homer
Economics
Wind Resource
Conclusions & Recommendations
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3.3 Project Resources
Describe the personnel, contractors, accounting or bookkeeping personnel or firms, equipment,
and services you will use to accomplish the project. Include any partnerships or commitments
with other entities you have or anticipate will be needed to complete your project. Describe any
existing contracts and the selection process you may use for major equipment purchases or
contracts. Include brief resumes and references for known, key personnel, contractors, and
suppliers as an attachment to your application.
Tom Hoblet, City of False Pass Mayor will serve as the project sponsor and coordinate with
Marsh Creek, LLC. Chris Emrcih, City Clerk, will be responsible for submittal of required
financial and status reports to the Alaska Energy Authority. Marsh Creek, LLC will confer
routinely with the False Pass City staff while simultaneously working with qualified consultants
(V3 Energy, LLC) to develop and complete the project. Josh Craft and Rich Stromberg of the
Alaska Energy Authority will assist in base wind data analysis. Marsh Creek, LLC will follow its
procurement and bid policies as far as selecting firms and purchasing equipment, supplies, and
materials. Selection of consultant and contractors will be based on the type and amount of past
wind project experience of the firm as well as individual work experience, experience and
familiarity in the region, and project cost.
3.4 Project Communications
Discuss how you plan to monitor the project and keep the Authority informed of the status.
Please provide an alternative contact person and their contact information.
Marsh Creek's Community Relations Manager, Connie Fredenberg, will be responsible for
maintaining regular communications between the City of False Pass and Marsh Creek. Marsh
Creek’s Senior Project Coordinator Maggie McKay will be responsible for maintaining
communications between Marsh Creek and the Alaska Energy Authority including quarterly
progress reports and other communication methods as required in the grant agreement. Marsh
Creek’s Renewable Energy Systems Division Manager John Lyons will facilitate coordination
between all Marsh Creek personnel. Marsh Creek, LLC will work closely with the selected
contractors and keep the AEA informed of progress by regular e-mail updates as components of
the project are completed. The contractor's interim and final reports will be submitted promptly
when completed.
3.5 Project Risk
Discuss potential problems and how you would address them.
Feasibility studies are generally a low-risk project stage. Four met towers will be built around
the City of False Pass to gather necessary data for modeling purposes. The only reasonable
risk to this project is that damage to these towers could result in data loss. This risk has been
addressed by using NRG systems equipment specifically designed to operate in cold and
harsh weather.
The purpose of this feasibility project is to reduce the risk of improper project design by
increasing due diligence through supplemental data gathering.
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SECTION 4 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND TASKS
• The level of information will vary according to phase(s) of the project you propose to
undertake with grant funds.
• 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
satisfied and funding for an advanced phase is warranted.
4.1 Proposed Energy Resource
Describe the potential extent/amount of the energy resource that is available.
Discuss 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.
The wind resource as the False Pass met tower site is generally good with measured wind power class
4 by measurement of wind power density (Class 3 if considering only mean annual wind speed). By
other measures important for wind power analysis, the site has a low 50-year return period extreme
wind probability but high turbulence; the latter apparently due to the high mountains that border
Isantoski Strait and that are very near the met tower to the north, west and south. Turbulence intensity
calculated from the met tower data indicates much higher than desirable turbulence conditions. These
challenges could be met with either Kelso VAWTs or Xzeres Skystream or Bergie turbines.
In 2010 the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) funded a grant to the Aleutians East Borough (AEB) to
perform an assessment of renewable energy resources (wind, waste heat recovery, hydro, tidal, solar).
The wind resource in False Pass was identified as viable renewable energy option but put on hold due
to problems with turbulence. Turbulence concerns have been addressed by using Kelso VAWTs.
Please reference conceptual design reports that are already submitted.
4.2 Existing Energy System
4.2.1 Basic configuration of Existing Energy System
Briefly discuss the basic configuration of the existing energy system. Include information about the
number, size, age, efficiency, and type of generation.
The City of False Pass owns and operates the False Pass Electrical U tility. The electric utility
serves 21 residential, 11 commercial, one state facility, and nine community facilities customers .
(1) John Deere 75 kW; 4 hours of operation
(1) John Deere 125 kW; 11,483 hours of operation
(1) John Deere 175 kW; 17,789 hours of operation
The peak load is 170 kW with an average load of 75kW. The community has used an average of
53,153 gallons per year of diesel #2 for electrical generation for the last two years. The utility's
power distribution system is all underground 3-phase wire operating at 12,470 volt s grounded Y .
Please see figure below.
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4.2.2 Existing Energy Resources Used
Briefly discuss your understanding of the existing energy resources. Include a brief discussion of any
impact the project may have on existing energy infrastructure and resources.
The False Pass Power Plant produces electrical energy by burning diesel fuel in engine-driven
generators. This satisfies a community power consumption of approxim ately 580,530 kWh per year.
This consumption does not include power that is used to operate the pow er plant , or power lost in
distribution. By integrating wind power into the existing system, our goal is to generate the same
amount of energy output, using substantially less fuel than is currently being used.
4.2.3 Existing Energy Market
Discuss existing energy use and its market. Discuss impacts your project may have on energy
customers.
False Pass is located on the eastern shore of Unimak Island on a strait connecting the Pacific Gulf of
Alaska to the Bering Sea. It is 646 air miles southwest of Anchorage and accessible only by air and
barge transportation. The community experiences long and cold winter nights , and severe winter storms can
be continuous.
Existing power consumption is approximately 580,530 kWh per year. Reliable power service is
essential for airport lights (especially in winter), the health clinic, school, government , tribal, and
corporation buildings and facilities, harbor utilities, the Bering Pacific Seafood Plant, commercial
enterprises , and residences.
Wind power will ultimately help stabilize power costs and allow the City of False Pass to no longer need
to subsidize the fuel costs for the utility, but instead put that additional money towards a Repairs and
Replacement fund for new equipment.
The City is also hoping to develop a world class tidal power resource, which will supply an additional 50
kW of power that can be used for electricity or heat as demand requires.
4.3 Proposed System
Include information necessary to describe the system you are intending to develop and address
potential system design, land ownership, permits, and environmental issues.
4.3.1 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
• Basic integration concept
• Delivery methods
Marsh Creek modeled a low to medium penetration with coincident thermal energy generation wind-
diesel design for the False Pass facility, due to the location’s ample but turbulent wind resource.
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As the utility already converts engine heat for space heating quite efficiently, the False Pass hybrid
approach optimizes the heat recovery system by wind power in the form of electrical thermal at this site
for the school or community building.
To facilitate an effective and reliable wind-diesel hybrid system, Marsh Creek proposes to install four (4)
weather stations in open areas near the airport. The combined data from these stations will be used to
determine if ten (10) 5 kW VAWTs would perform compared to Xzeres Skystream or Bergie turbines.
Regardless of turbine choice, the first use of power will be to add kWhs to the grid for customer use.
Additional power will be diverted to the heating loop.
Wind-diesel power systems are categorized based on their average penetration levels, or the overall
proportion of wind-generated electricity compared to the total amount of electrical energy generated.
Commonly used categories of wind-diesel penetration levels are low penetration, medium penetration,
and high penetration. The wind penetration level is roughly equivalent to the amount of diesel fuel
displaced by wind power. Note however that the higher the level of wind penetration, the more complex
and expensive a control system and demand-management strategy is required.
Vertical Axis Wind Turbines have yet to be used to power an Alaskan village, although 7 were recently
installed to provide heat for Cold Bay’s USFWS office, housing and shop. The Kelso VAWT is a 5 kW
machine which, while undergoing certification in Canada, has produced as much as 8 kW. With several
months of operational experience in Cold Bay’s wind regime the VAWT’s are proving to be robust and
productive. The Bergey and Xzeres Skystream wind turbines are both certified by the Small Wind
Certification Council (SWCC) and are considerations for the project’s final design. These two turbines
have been installed and proven successful in Alaska. Other turbines certified by the SWCC may be
reviewed as well, but at this time are unknowns in the state. The goal of obtaining additional wind
resource data is to provide the optimum project design.
Information on delivery methods, optimum installed capacity, capacity factor, annual generation,
barriers, and integration will be a product of this feasibility study. These topics currently remain
unexplored.
4.3.2 Land Ownership
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 met tower was originally installed in May of 2005 with monitoring equipment and lead installers
contributed by AEA and the local labor partially covered under a DOE Tribal Energy Grant. The city
manager and village corporation CEO chose the site with guidance from the Endangered Species
department at the USFWS and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The favored location by the
airport was not approved by FAA. The most recent plan is to site all VAWT near the airport, the original
preferred location. Because these VAWTs are not on tall towers, they are expected to be no issue with
FAA. And because USFWS is studying the VAWTs they installed in a very sensitive bird area in Cold
Bay, they are supportive of the notion that VAWTs do not pose any danger to birds. We do not expect
there to be any problems with avian interaction.
The City of False Pass is in the process of determining if the land by the airport is owned by DOT, FAA
or the local village corporation. The City believes there will be no problem with access to this area for
this proposed wind farm.
See resolution attached.
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4.3.3 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 discussion of potential barriers
Potential permits required of the project include:
Alaska Pollution Discharge Elimination System
No permits are needed as less than one acre of soil will be disturbed.
Federal Aviation Administration
VAWTs are only 10 meters tall, whereas horizontal axis turbines would be on 30 meter towers. We
believe there will be no problems installing these low to the ground turbines near the airport in False
Pass.
Alaska Department of Natural Resources
• Alaska Coastal Management Program Consistency Review
No permits are needed at this time.
• State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
The SHPO has been consulted and no issues are expected.
• US Army Corps of Engineers
No permits are needed as we do not foresee any fill in of wetlands or streams in the
area. Roads that are typically needed for the construction of turbines and power lines
have already been built to the most recent proposed site location. No 404 permits from
the US Army Corps of Engineers will be needed.
• Wetlands and Waterways
No wetland loss for this project is anticipated as this project builds on existing
infrastructure constructed by the City of False Pass.
• US Fish and Wildlife Service
Although not located at the site already vetted by USFWS, we are fully aware of the
support USFWS has for use of VAWTs in sensitive bird areas. We foresee no problems
with avian interaction nor objections from USFWS.
4.3.4 Environmental
Address 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
• Archaeological and historical resources
• Land development constraints
• Telecommunications interference
• Aviation considerations
• Visual, aesthetics impacts
• Identify and discuss other potential barriers
Threatened or endangered species
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• The only threatened or endangered species considerations to be made involve Stellers Eiders,
and have been addressed with appropriate turbine design and location.
Habitat issues
• Habitat issues have been addressed by siting turbines at a location with pre-existing road
access.
Wetlands and other protected areas
• Damage to wetlands and other protected areas has been addressed by siting turbines at a
location with pre-existing road access.
Archaeological and historical resources
• Archaeological and historical resources have been addressed by siting turbines at a location
with pre-existing road access.
Land development constraints
• Siting the proposed wind turbines at locations that already have road access has eliminated
land development constraints that would be present if gravel pads needed to be built specifically
for this project.
Telecommunications interference
• No telecommunications interference is anticipated.
Aviation considerations
• The only threatened or endangered species considerations to be made involve Stellers Eiders,
and have been addressed with appropriate turbine design and location.
Visual, aesthetic impacts
• The City of False Pass supports construction of turbines on their land which indicates the visual
impacts are of secondary importance to the benefits offered by turbine construction.
Identify and discuss other potential barriers
• No other potential barriers have been identified.
4.4 Proposed New System Costs and Projected Revenues
(Total Estimated Costs and Projected Revenues)
The level of cost information provided will vary according to the phase of funding requested and any
previous work the applicant may have done on the project. Applicants must reference the source of
their cost data. For example: Applicants records or analysis, industry standards, consultant or
manufacturer’s estimates.
4.4.1 Project Development Cost
Provide detailed project cost information based on your current knowledge and understanding of the
project. Cost information should include the following:
• Total anticipated project cost, and cost for this phase
• Requested grant funding
• Applicant matching funds – loans, capital contributions, in-kind
• Identification of other funding sources
• Projected capital cost of proposed renewable energy system
• Projected development cost of proposed renewable energy system
Cost to date is $74,075, $69,075 of which came from the round IV renewable energy fund, and $5,000
in community in-kind match. The projected cost for this feasibility phase is $52,050, with another $5,000
in community match. To date, the community has contributed $10,000 of in-kind match.
We are requesting $47,050.00 for this grant per consultant’s estimate.
The City of False Pass will provide $5,000 of in-kind funds.
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There are no other funding sources being used for this phase.
Data gathering during this feasibility phase will be used to inform optimal turbine design. Only at this
time will reasonable estimates of renewable energy system cost be available.
4.4.2 Project Operating and Maintenance Costs
Include anticipated O&M costs for new facilities constructed and how these would be funded by the
applicant.
(Note: Operational costs are not eligible for grant funds however grantees are required to meet ongoing
reporting requirements for the purpose of reporting impacts of projects on the communities they serve.)
Operating and maintenance costs vary from year to year but generally average at ~$10,000/year.
False Pass and Marsh Creek LLC are currently in negotiations in terms of long-term O&M strategy.
Similar agreements in other villages (i.e. Kokhanok) have proven to be successful. This contract would
consist of training for local personnel to maintain the equipment.
Local capacity to maintain the system will help keep O&M costs to a minimum after the 5-year contract
with Marsh Creek LLC has ended. At this point O&M costs will become the responsibility of the local
utility.
4.4.3 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
• Proposed rate of return from grant-funded project
The City of False Pass electric utility serves the community of False Pass. The residents and
businesses in False Pass will be the customers. The current electric rate for Residential Customers and
Community Facilities is $.42/kWh. Commercial Customers pay $.36/kWh. These rates will be used
until the system has been in operation for several months and a clear picture of energy savings is
developed. At that time a new rate may be implemented, but the savings will more likely go towards a
Replacement and Repairs account.
The rates will be reviewed annually. It is hopes that performance of the high penetration system will
warrant further rate reductions. The council is conservative in its predictions, but very hopeful there will
be further rate reductions.
The rate of return does not apply at this stage.
The City of False Pass as a whole wins big by reducing the need to import fuel.
4.4.4 Project Cost Worksheet
Complete the cost worksheet form which provides summary information that will be considered in
evaluating the project.
Marsh Creek LLC provided the costs for the wind project design and pricing for wind turbines.
Sources cited for potential wind energy savings and costs came from the AEP document downloaded
from the AEA site.
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Please fill out the form provided below.
Renewable Energy Source
The Applicant should demonstrate that the renewable energy resource is available on a
sustainable basis.
Annual average resource availability. Class III Wind Resource
Unit depends on project type (e.g. windspeed, hydropower output, biomasss fuel)
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 3 generators
ii. Rated capacity of generators/boilers/other 75kVV, 125kVV, 175kVV
iii. Generator/boilers/other type All three are John Deere Diesel Engines
iv. Age of generators/boilers/other Not Available
v. Efficiency of generators/boilers/other 11.43 kWh/gal
b) Annual O&M cost (if system is part of the Railbelt grid, leave this section blank)
i. Annual O&M cost for labor $22,123
ii. Annual O&M cost for non-labor $17,034
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] 706,037 kWh
ii. Fuel usage
Diesel [gal] 53,153 gal
Other
iii. Peak Load 190 kW
iv. Average Load 66 kW
v. Minimum Load 56 kW
vi. Efficiency 13.28 kWh/gallon generated
vii. Future trends The community load varies with Fish Processor activities. We expect this to
continue.
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]
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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vi. Other
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]
b) Proposed annual electricity or heat production (fill in as applicable)
i. Electricity [kWh]
ii. Heat [MMBtu]
c) Proposed annual fuel usage (fill in as applicable)
i. Propane [gal or MMBtu]
ii. Coal [tons or MMBtu]
iii. Wood or pellets [cords, green tons,
dry tons]
iv. Other
Project Cost
a) Total capital cost of new system
b) Development cost
c) Annual O&M cost of new system
d) Annual fuel cost
Project Benefits
a) Amount of fuel displaced for
i. Electricity
ii. Heat
iii. Transportation
b) Current price of displaced fuel
c) Other economic benefits Sale of green tags if project is constructed
d) Alaska public benefits
Power Purchase/Sales Price
a) Price for power purchase/sale
Project Analysis
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a) Basic Economic Analysis
Project benefit/cost ratio
Payback (years)
4.4.5 Impact on Rates
Briefly explain what if any effect your project will have on electrical rates in the proposed benefit
area. If the is for a PCE eligible utility please discus what the expected impact would be for both
pre and post PCE.
The current electric rate for PCE customers is $.42/kWh with a PCE rate of $.2777, making
an effective rate of $.1430 for the first 500 kWhs of usage for Residential Customers and all
of the Community Facility usage. The Non-PCE customer rate for Commercial and
Federal/State customers is $.36/kWh.
These rates are so low only because the City of False Pass subsidizes the fuel costs to their
electric utility with CDQ monies. Less fuel usage will not change the rates, but will allow the
City of False Pass to use that money now used to subsidize fuel costs towards maintenance
on the added equipment and a Replacement and Repairs account.
The PCE rate will be reduced because of less fuel, but the decrease in fuel use will be offset
by an increase in O&M costs. It may not be totally equivalent but it will be close.
SECTION 5– PROJECT BENEFIT
Explain the economic and public 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:
• Potential annual fuel displacement (gallons and dollars) over the lifetime of the evaluated
renewable energy project
• Anticipated annual revenue (based on i.e. a Proposed Power Purchase Agreement price,
RCA tariff, or cost based rate)
• Potential additional annual incentives (i.e. tax credits)
• Potential additional annual revenue streams (i.e. green tag sales or other renewable
energy subsidies or programs that might be available)
• Discuss the non-economic public benefits to Alaskans over the lifetime of the project
The purpose of this feasibility study is to find the most appropriate turbine design to maximize
dollars saved as well as fuel displaced. The exact fuel displacement is unknown at this time and
the objective of this study. According to ISER economic valuations, a renewable wind project in
False Pass could displace 9,742 gallons of diesel oil per year at a savings of $56,000 annually.
There have been no Proposed Power Purchase Agreement price, RCA tariff: or cost based
rates for the proposed wind-diesel system developed at this time.
The people of False Pass would like to be less dependent on the variable price of diesel fuel,
lessen the environmental risks of fuel transport and storage hazards by requiring less diesel
fuel to power their community.
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Tax credits are not available for this project.
This project will not sell an appreciable quantity of green tags. The carbon offset value may be
higher by selling green power to the fish plant so that they can advertise their product as being
produced by green power.
Non-economic benefits to Alaskans over the lifetime of the project are the obvious avoidance of
fuel transport and fuel spill risks in addition to the reduction in emissions. The people of False
Pass would like to be less dependent on the variable price of diesel fuel, lessen the
environmental risks of fuel transport and storage hazards by requiring less diesel fuel to power
their community.
5.1.1 Public Benefit for Projects with Private Sector Sales
Projects that include sales of power to private sector businesses (sawmills, cruise ships, mines,
etc.), please provide a brief descr iption of the direct and indirect public benefits derived from the
project as well as the private sector benefits and complete the table below. See section 1.6 in
the Request for Applications for more information.
Renewable energy resource availability (kWh per month) N/A
Estimated sales (kWh) N/A
Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use at privet
sector businesses ($)
N/A
Estimated sales (kWh) N/A
Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use by the
Alaskan public ($)
N/A
SECTION 6– SUSTAINABILITY
Discuss your plan for operating the completed project so that it will be sustainable.
Include at a minimum:
• Proposed business structure(s) and concepts that may be considered.
• How you propose to finance the maintenance and operations for the life of the project
• Identification of operational issues that could arise.
• A description of operational costs including on-going support for any back-up or existing
systems that may be require to continue operation
• Commitment to reporting the savings and benefits
Sustainability of this project will rely on the village of False Pass operating the turbines
properly and servicing them regularly according to maintenance protocols. There will be a
learning curve in operating the proposed wind-diesel system. Adequate training and support
has been budgeted, and will be provided by Marsh Creek under a 5 year O&M service
agreement. The Utility will incorporate flat-rate O&M costs into its rate structure to cover the
costs of operating and maintaining the renewable energy infrastructure. This service
agreement will consist of training, operations assistance, and storage of spare parts. This style of
service agreement offered by Marsh Creek is working successfully in the village of Kokhanok.
Selection of proper O&M protocols will take into account surrounding community systems
already in existence. This will positively contribute to the wind market penetration to support
trained personnel.
False Pass currently spends $22,123 on labor O&M and $17,034 on non-labor O&M. O&M
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costs will increase further with new equipment but fuel savings will offset these costs. We will
report savings and benefits in compliance with AEA’s requirements. Similar information will also
be included in the annual PCE report.
SECTION 7 – READINESS & COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER GRANTS
Discuss what you have done to prepare for this award and how quickly you intend to proceed
with work once your grant is approved.
Tell us what you may have already accomplished on the project to date and identify other grants
that may have been previously awarded for this project and the degree you have been able to
meet the requirements of previous grants.
The Aleutians East Borough was awarded a $25,000 grant from the Alaska Energy Authority
on July 27, 2009 to perform a renewable energy resource feasibility study for the communiti es
of Cold Bay, False Pass, and Nelson Lagoon (the AEB contributed $5,000 cash and $10,000
in-kind to the project). The study proj ect was completed on May 18, 2010 and submitted to the
AEA on June 2, 2010 . The study contains an analysis of existing energy power systems,
potential renewable energy resources, and recommendations for renewable energy projects in
the three communities. The study provides the basis for much of the information contained in
this grant.
The City of False Pass and the Aleutians East Borough are currently r eceiving assistance from
the Aleutian Pribilof Island Association and Marsh Creek, Inc. to follow-up on the project
recommendations contained in the completed Renewable Energy Feasibility Study.
Specifically, we are refining the type of equipment specified in the plan as well as developing
work plans for project implementation. This work also provides the basis for much of the
information in this application. With this additional work - completion of feasibility and design
studies, the City of False Pass Electrical Utility will be ready to proceed immediately.
Another renewable energy project is currently proposed for the village of False Pass. A tidal
energy project located in Isanotski Strait would offset over 30% of False Pass’s current electrical
load. This project is currently seeking funds for feasibility testing through the renewable energy
fund (REF). Our proposed wind-diesel project and the proposed tidal energy project are
complementary projects and could be developed simultaneously in False Pass. No political,
economic, of engineering hurdles exist that would prevent both projects from concurrent
construction in False Pass.
SECTION 8 – LOCAL SUPPORT AND OPPOSITION
Discuss local support and opposition, known or anticipated, for the project. Include letters of
support 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 2,
2013.
Please see the enclosed resolution from the village of False Pass, resolution from Isanotski
Corporation, and letter of support from the Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association, Inc.
SECTION 9 – GRAN T BUDGET
Tell us how much you are seeking in grant funds. Include any investments to date and funding
sources, how much is being requested in grant funds, and additional investments you will make
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as an applicant.
Provide a narrative summary regarding funding source and your financial commitment to the
project
Funding in the amount of $47,050.00 is requested from the Renewable Energy Fund for this
project. In-kind contribution in the amount of $5,000.00 is dedicated to this project. Total grant
costs sum to $52,050.00.
Please provide a short narrative, and cost estimate, identifying the metering equipment, and its
related use to comply with the operations reporting requirement identified in Section 3.15 of the
Request for Applications.
Once turbines have been constructed, the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System
(SCADA) on the current powerplant will be programmed to collect necessary energy production
and load information to support reporting requirements.
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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 and Commissioning). Please use the tables
provided below to detail your proposed project’s budget. Be sure to use one table for each
phase of your project.
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 Grant Administrator,
Shawn Calfa, at scalfa@aidea.org.
Milestone or Task
Anticipated
Completion
Date
RE- Fund
Grant Funds
Grantee
Matching
Funds
Source of
Matching
Funds:
Cash/In-
kind/Federal
Grants/Other
State
Grants/Other
TOTALS
(List milestones based on
phase and type of project.
See Milestone list below. )
$ $ $
FAA Permit Applications 3/1/2014 $ $ $
Heat Recovery and Met Tower
Equipment 9/1/2014 $25,000.00 $ $25,000.00
Heat Recovery and Met Tower
Installation 9/1/2014 $6,750.00 $4,000.00 Cash/In-Kind $10,750.00
HOMER analysis 7/1/2015 $ $ $
Down East, HOMER, WASP
modeling 7/1/2015 $4,500.00 $ Cash/In-Kind $4,500.00
CDR Revisions / Updates 7/1/2015 $10,800.00 $1,000.00 Cash/In-Kind $11,800.00
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
$ $ $
TOTALS $47,050.00 $5,000.00 $52,050.00
Budget Categories:
Direct Labor & Benefits $20,050.00 $4,000.00 $24,050.00
Travel & Per Diem $2,000.00 $500.00 $2,500.00
Equipment $ $500.00 $500.00
Materials & Supplies $25,000.00 $ $25,000.00
Contractual Services $ $ $
Construction Services $ $ $
Other $ $ $
TOTALS $47,050.00 $5,000.00 $52,050.00
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SECTION 10 – AUTHORIZED SIGNERS FORM
Community/Grantee Name: City of False Pass
Regular Election is held: October 2 at city office
Date:
Authorized Grant Signer(s):
Printed Name Title Term Signature
Tom Hoblet Mayor 10/2012
I authorize the above person(s) to sign Grant Documents:
(Highest ranking organization/community/municipal official)
Printed Name Title Term Signature
Grantee Contact Information:
Mailing Address: PO Box 50, False Pass, AK 99583
Phone Number: 907-548-2319
Fax Number: 907-548-2214
E-mail Address: cityoffalsepass@ak.net
Federal Tax ID #: 92-0135411
Please submit an updated form whenever there is a change to the above information.
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SECTION 11 – ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION AND CERTIFICATION
SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS WITH YOUR APPLICATION:
A. Contact information, resumes of Applicant’s Project Manager, key staff, partners,
consultants, and suppliers per application form Section 3.1 and 3.4. Applicants
are asked to provide resumes submitted with applications in separate electronic
documents if the individuals do not want their resumes posted to the project web
site.
B. Letters or resolutions demonstrating local support per application form Section 8.
C. For heat projects only: Most recent invoice demonstrating the cost of heating fuel
for the building(s) impacted by the project.
D. Governing Body Resolution or other formal action taken by the applicant’s
governing body or management per RFA Section 1.4 that:
- Commits the organization to provide the matching resources for project at the
match amounts indicated in the application.
- Authorizes the individual who signs the application has the authority to
commit the organization to the obligations under the grant.
- Provides as point of contact to represent the applicant for purposes of this
application.
- Certifies the applicant is in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local,
laws including existing credit and federal tax obligations.
E. An electronic version of the entire application on CD or other electronic media, per
RFA Section 1.7.
F. CERTIFICATION
The undersigned certifies that this application for a renewable energy grant is truthful
and correct, and that the applicant is in compliance with, and will continue to comply
with, all federal and state laws including existing credit and federal tax obligations and
that they can indeed commit the entity to these obligations.
Print Name Tom Hoblett
Signature
Title Mayor
Date
.
.
.