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GRANT APPLICATION
– FOR –
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT
RECONNAISSANCE STUDY
SEPTEMBER 2013
– SUBMITTED TO –
ALASKA ENERGY AUTHORITY
RENEWABLE ENERGY GRANT PROGRAM – ROUND VII
RFA #AEA-14-006
– SUBMITTED BY –
NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL
P.O. BOX 94
CANTWELL, AK 99729
Renewable Energy Fund Round VII
Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 2014-006 Grant Application Page 2 of 21 7/1/2013
SECTION 1 – APPLICANT INFORMATION
Name (Name of utility, IPP, or government entity submitting proposal)
NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL (NVC)
Type of Entity: LOCAL GOVERNMENT (TRIBAL GOVERNMENT) Fiscal Year End SEPTEMBER 30
Tax ID # 92-0046670 Tax Status: For-profit X Non-profit Government ( check one)
Date of last financial statement audit: None. NVC is not required to undergo financial audits.
Mailing Address
P.O. BOX 94
CANTWELL, AK 99729
Physical Address
MP 133.4 DENALI HWY
CANTWELL, AK 99729
Telephone 907-768-2591 Fax 907-768-1111
Email HALLVC@MTAONLINE.NET
1.1 APPLICANT POINT OF CONTACT / GRANTS MANAGER
Name
ARNEL HERNANDEZ
GORDON CARLSON
Title
VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR
HYDRO PROJECT MANAGER
Mailing Address
P.O. BOX 94
CANTWELL, AK 99729
Telephone
907-768-2591
Fax
907-768-1111
Email
HALLVC@MTAONLINE.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
A local government, or
x 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.
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT RECONNAISSANCE STUDY
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.
The project is located on Carlo Creek approximately 10 miles north of Cantwell (approximately
MP 219 Parks Hwy). This project is located at approximately 63.57d N, 148.81d W. The project
is located within sections 31 and 32 of T15S R6W, and section 36 of T15S R7W (Fairbanks
Meridian). The project area is shown on USGS quad map Healy C4. See project maps in
Appendix F.
2.2.2 Community benefiting – Name(s) of the community or communities that will be the
beneficiaries of the project.
Communities that will benefit from this project include Cantwell, Carlo Creek, and McKinley
Village. Also, communities on the railbelt energy grid will benefit from the project - primarily
communities served by Golden Valley Electric Association (GVEA) from Cantwell north.
2.3 PROJECT TYPE
Put X in boxes as appropriate
2.3.1 Renewable Resource Type
Wind Biomass or Biofuels (excluding heat-only)
X 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
X Reconnaissance Final Design and Permitting
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.
The proposed project is a reconnaissance study of a 1 to 2 MW run-of-river hydroelectric project
on Carlo Creek near the Parks Highway approximately 10 miles north of Cantwell. The hydro
project’s output would be sold to the local electric utility, Golden Valley Electric Association, Inc.
(GVEA) to reduce GVEA’s reliance on diesel and naptha for generation.
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 is expected to lower GVEA’s fuel expense, providing a public benefit to GVEA
ratepayers, increasing the fuel diversity and sustainability of the region’s energy supplies, and
improving air quality in Fairbanks by reducing local power plant emissions.
Cantwell, Carlo Creek, and McKinley Village are currently served by GVEA via the power
transmission line between MEA and GVEA (Alaska Intertie System), and have no local backup
generation. Outage frequency and duration is approximately 4 to 8 times higher in these
communities than for GVEA members at large1. By providing a local source of electricity, the
project will help to improve electric reliability in these communities during outages on the Intertie
System. In the past, damage to the transmission line from an avalanche caused a two day
outage in the dead of the winter; temperatures without wind chill can be –50 F in this area. High
winds are constant in the Cantwell area so the wind chill is an important factor. These
transmission failures can last for several days or weeks in the worst case, and pose a grave
hazard to the local people and infrastructure. In previous years, Cantwell has also experienced
outages due to lightening strikes. If lightening damages insulators or other infrastructure, these
outages can last a day or more.
Operating and maintaining this project will provide local employment. Also, the project trails can
provide improved access to the upper Carlo Creek valley, providing new hiking or hunting
destinations that will help bolster the local tourism and hospitality industries.
1. Jack River Hydroelectric Reconnaissance Study, Polarconsult Alaska, Inc., March 2013, Page 6.
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.
The proposed cost of the reconnaissance study is $60,000. The NVC requests $54,000 in grant
funds and is providing $6,000 in match from its own resources for the study. The NVC will
provide in-kind labor and equipment support for the project. We have done this on the recently
completed reconnaissance study at Jack River by helping out with the stream gauge and field
work where appropriate.
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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 $54,000
2.7.2 Cash match to be provided $ 0
2.7.3 In-kind match to be provided $ 6,000
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) $60,000
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.
$8,340,000
2.7.8 Additional Performance Monitoring Equipment not covered
by the project but required for the Grant Only applicable to
construction phase projects.
NA - Recon
2.7.9 Estimated Direct Financial Benefit (Savings) $13,270,000
2.7.10 Other Public Benefit If you can calculate the benefit in terms
of dollars please provide that number here and explain how you
calculated that number in Section 5 below.
No other quantifiable
financial benefits, see
narrative.
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.
Mr. Gordon Carlson of Cantwell will be the project manager for the reconnaissance study. He
successfully managed the reconnaissance study completed earlier this year at Jack River. The
Native Village of Cantwell has been working with Polarconsult Alaska, Inc. for several years on
the Jack River studies. If funding is secured to do a reconnaissance study for the Carlo Creek
Hydro project, the village intends to hire Polarconsult Alaska, Inc. to perform this study.
Qualifications of Polarconsult personnel to be assigned to this project are attached to this
proposal.
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3.2 Project Schedule and Milestones
Please fill out the schedule below. 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.
Schedule for Reconnaissance Study
Milestones Tasks Start Date End Date
1. Project Kick Off Sign Grant Agreement July 2014 --
Sign Contract with Consultant Aug. 2014 --
2. Resource Identification and
Analysis
Field recon, limited topo survey, stream
gauging. List of future technical studies
required.
Sept. 2014 July 2015
3. Land Use, Permitting, and
Environmental Analysis
Land status, fisheries, wetland, wildlife
assessments. List of permits and studies
required.
Sept. 2014 July 2015
4. Preliminary Design & Cost
Analysis
Physical infrastructure, project layout,
capacity, turbine configuration, capacity
factor, annual output, development cost
estimate, and O&M cost estimate.
March 2015 July 2015
5. Cost of Energy and Market
Analysis
Existing residential and commercial electric
rates, and avoided energy costs.
Characterize future trends.
May 2015 July 2015
6. Simple Economic Analysis Preliminary project financing plan, cost of
electricity from project, benefit cost ratio. May 2015 July 2015
7. Draft Final Report Document and summarize data, findings,
recommendations -- Aug. 2015
8. Final Report Incorporate AEA comments Aug. 2015 Sept. 2015
Schedule is based on timely signing of grant agreement. Tasks are based on months from grant agreement signing.
An estimated overall project development schedule is provided below.
Complete Reconnaissance Study: September 2015
Feasibility Study: 2015 to 2017
Design and Permitting: 2018 to 2019
Construction: 2020
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.
The NVC will make all of its resources available to successfully complete this project. Arnel
Hernandez, the village administrator, has already spent many years to secure funding to do a
reconnaissance study for a nearby hydropower resource (Jack River). The village has also
used and will continue to use its office, computer, telephone, fax and other office equipment
until this project is accomplished. Village members will volunteer their time and experience
(experience as an electrician, construction company owner, etc...) until this project is completed.
The NVC has worked successfully with Polarconsult Alaska, Inc. for several years in efforts to
study Jack River’s hydropower potential, including hiring Polarconsult to perform the
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reconnaissance study completed earlier this year. The NVC intends to hire Polarconsult to
perform the reconnaissance study of Carlo Creek.
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.
The Village Administrator, Mr. Arnel Hernandez, will be the liaison between the village,
Polarconsult, and the Alaska Energy Authority for the duration of this project. The village will be
submitting quarterly reports to the Alaska Energy Authority until this project is completed. Mr.
Hernandez successfully served in this capacity for the reconnaissance study of Jack River.
3.5 Project Risk
Discuss potential problems and how you would address them.
Carlo Creek was identified as a favorable resource for Cantwell in the Regional Inventory and
Reconnaissance Study of Small Hydropower Projects completed for the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers in 1982. To our knowledge, it has not been investigated since that study. There is
limited risk associated with the project at the current level of study. In the event the studies
conclude the project does not warrant further study, the village will not pursue the project and
there is no risk.
Various problems may be encountered in the course of studies and field work for the project.
Such problems will be addressed by hiring qualified and experienced individuals to perform
these studies and work. Such individuals are capable of recognizing problems early on and
properly handling them when they do occur.
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.
Carlo Creek at the proposed diversion site drains approximately 15.2 square miles of the Alaska
Range north of Cantwell (See map in Appendix F). Based on review of gauged basins in the
region, Carlo Creek is expected to have sustained flow in the summer months (mid-May to mid-
September) of at least 40 cfs and an annual minimum flow in late April of 3 cfs (see hydrology
summary in Appendix F). Carlo Creek is in a hanging valley with a north-facing aspect. There
are no significant lakes or glaciation present in the basin. The southern and southeastern divide
is formed by peaks and ridges between 4,500 and 6,100 feet elevation. The western, eastern,
and northern basin divides are lower, at 2,500 to 5,000 feet. Just downstream of the proposed
2,700 ft. diversion site, the creek passes through a notch, and descends towards the Parks
Highway at grades of 10 to 15%. The creek drops approximately 700 feet in 1.5 miles, crossing
the Parks Highway at an elevation of approximately 2,000 ft. The proposed hydro project is
located on this reach of the creek.
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Run-of-river hydro is a mature technology with numerous successful installations throughout
Alaska. The design life of this project would be 50 years.
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.
GVEA currently serves the village of Cantwell and the surrounding area (Carlo Creek and
McKinley Village) via a three-phase overhead distribution system. Power is provided through a
tap off the Alaska Intertie System. Cantwell and the surrounding area has no local electrical
generation capability. When floods, lightening, wind, or avalanches cause an outage on the
Intertie, Cantwell experiences an outage until the intertie is reenergized. Cantwell’s outage rate is
4 to 8 times higher than for GVEA at large.
The combined load in Cantwell and surrounding areas is approximately 500 to 1,000 kW during
the summer months and 250 to 600 kW in the winter months.
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.
Cantwell and surrounding areas receive electricity from the Alaska Intertie System. This
electricity is generated from several energy sources, including coal, naptha, fuel oil, natural gas,
hydropower, and wind.
This project will provide more renewable hydropower to the intertie system and the railbelt
communities. Hydropower is more stably priced and less costly than many of the fossil-fuel
derived energy sources currently used by GVEA. In particular, this project will help to reduce the
amount of fuel oil and naptha burned by GVEA in Fairbanks and North Pole. The cost of these
energy resources on the GVEA system has recently ranged from approximately 20 to 90 cents
per kWh.
4.2.3 Existing Energy Market
Discuss existing energy use and its market. Discuss impacts your project may have on energy
customers.
Energy costs for the communities served by GVEA are high due to the high costs of fuel. Lower
electric costs are expected to increase demand from existing customers, and will encourage new
business opportunities in Cantwell and surrounding communities.
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
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Anticipated barriers
Basic integration concept
Delivery methods
Detailed project designs have not been prepared at this level of study. Generally, the project will
consist of the following major components:
1. A small diversion structure located at approximately the 2,700-foot elevation of Carlo Creek.
The diversion would not impound a significant amount of water.
2. An intake structure to screen water from the creek and admit it to the project penstock. This
intake structure would also remove sediment and bedload from the water and return it to the
creek. Preliminary design flow is 40 cfs, which is estimated to result in a plant capacity factor
of 45% (This estimate is based on review of regional hydrology, USGS maps, and
topography (see Appendix F).
3. A buried approximately 10,500 foot long penstock that conveys water from the intake to the
powerhouse (preliminarily a 30-inch diameter pipe including approximately 3,000 feet of
HDPE and 7,500 feet of steel).
4. A powerhouse fitted with an impulse-type turbine (Pelton or Turgo) at an elevation of
approximately 2,040 feet. The installed capacity is estimated at 1.6 MW, and annual energy
generation is estimated at 6,300,000 kWh per year (using the estimated plant capacity factor
of 45%). These estimates are based on a water-to-wire efficiency of 80%, which is readily
achieved with available turbine and generator technology for the proposed project
configuration.
5. Synchronous generators to allow black-start capability to provide electricity for Cantwell and
surrounding areas during intertie outages. These are also expected to be easier to integrate
with the intertie and substation operations.
6. An approximately 800-foot long power line extension to the existing 7.2/12.4 kV three-phase
overhead distribution system along the Parks Highway.
7. Access roads and trails as needed to construct, operate, and maintain the project.
All of these parameters are estimates that will be refined by the proposed site-specific
reconnaissance to be conducted with this grant.
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.
Land where the project would be located is owned by a combination of private parties, Ahtna, Inc.,
and the State of Alaska (see the property map in Appendix F). The project would not occupy
federal land. The project penstock and access route would cross the power line easement for the
Alaska Intertie System.
Ahtna, Inc. is aware of this project, and has provided a letter of support for the project (attached).
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
The project is expected to require the following major permits for construction.
1. The project is not expected to fall under FERC jurisdiction. It is not on federal land, and is not
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known to have a fishery or other economic resource significant to interstate commerce.
2. Land authorizations from Ahtna, Inc., the State of Alaska, and potentially private land owners
in the project vicinity.
3. Fish Habitat Permit. Carlo Creek is not anadromous fish habitat (See map in Appendix F), but
some resident fish species may be present.
4. U.S. Department of Army permits for work in waters of the U.S. including wetlands.
5. Alaska Department of Natural Resources Water Rights.
6. RCA authorization. A Utility Certificate from the Regulatory Commission of Alaska may be
required depending on how the Native Village of Cantwell proceeds with the project.
7. Applicable development permit(s) from the Denali Borough.
Once a decision to develop the project is made (at the conclusion of the Feasibility Study),
permits are estimated to take 1.5 to 3 years to obtain. This estimate will be refined once the
project resource issues, configuration and land status is refined. The longer timeframe would
correlate with more challenging resource issues, permitting delays, or FERC jurisdiction for the
project due to the increased level of study required.
No permitting barriers are known at this time.
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
The following assessment is based on currently available information.
Threatened or endangered species: None known.
Habitat issues: None known.
Fisheries Issues: The project is upstream of anadromous fish habitat. Some resident fish may be
present in the bypass reach. Fisheries surveys would be needed during the feasibility phase of
study to determine the presence and extent of resident fish.
Wetlands and other protected areas: All project configurations would fill some wetlands (diversion
footprint, access roads, etc.).
Archeological resources: None known.
Land development constraints: None known.
Water resources: There are existing water rights on Carlo Creek near and below the Parks
Highway. The project layout shown in this application (Appendix F) would return all diverted
water back to Carlo Creek upstream of these water rights, so they would not be affected.
Telecommunications Interference: None known.
Aviation considerations: None known.
Visual, aesthetics impacts: Some elements of the project, such as the penstock trail, may be
briefly visible to travelers from portions of the Parks Highway. This will depend on the penstock
route that is selected. Most visual or aesthetic impacts are limited to vantage points from the air,
remote terrain around the project, or the immediate vicinity of the project.
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Other potential barriers: None known.
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
Estimated Total Project Cost
The estimated total installed cost of the project is $8.34 million. Total preconstruction cost is
estimated at $470,000. A detailed estimate prepared by Polarconsult is provided in Appendix F.
The Army Corps of Engineers considered a hydroproject on Carlo Creek as part of a regional
reconnaissance study completed in 1982. That project was a 1.7 MW run-of-river project with an
estimated installed cost of $17.7 million (1982$). This estimate is not valid for current evaluation
of the proposed project, for the following reasons:
1. Advances in hydropower development methods, turbine manufacture, and related areas that
have occurred in the 30 years since the 1982 estimate was prepared render it completely
obsolete. For example, the 1982 cost for 1.7 MW of turbine/generator equipment was $7.58
million, or $4,460 per kW (1982$). Current costs for supply of turbine/generators in this class
are typically $500 to $1,000 per kW (2013$). Inflating the 1982 estimate to 2013 dollars
results in a turbine / generator cost that is high by a factor of 400 to 800%.
2. Adjusting the 1982 estimate to 2013 using the CPI results in an estimate of approximately
$36.6 million. For a 1.7 MW project this is $21,530 per installed kW. Recent experience in
Alaska shows that run-of-river projects similar to Carlo Creek, (1 to 5 MW capacity, favorable
access and logistics) cost from $2,000 to $6,000 per kW. A development cost of $8.34 million
is on the higher end of this range at $5,215 per kW. Even small remote projects (100 to 500
kW in Alaska villages, with very limited economy of scale and poor logistics, seldom cost over
$20,000 per installed kW. Appendix F provides examples of comparable recent Alaska
projects to substantiate this point.
3. The 1982 estimate was based on a 1.7 MW project, 6% larger than the proposed project.
4. The 1982 estimate included 23 miles of transmission line, which is not necessary for the
proposed project, as suitable distribution lines are now present along the Parks Highway.
The cost of this transmission line was 14% of the 1982 estimate.
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Cost for this Phase, Requested Grant Funding, and Matching Funds
The cost of the reconnaissance study is $60,000. The Native Village of Cantwell requests
$54,000 in grant funds and is providing $6,000 in match for the study. The Native Village of
Cantwell will provide in-kind labor and equipment support for the project. We did this for the
recently completed reconnaissance study at Jack River with project administration and assisting
with the stream gauge and field work where appropriate.
Funding Sources and Financing Plan
Should the project be viable, NVC expects to apply for future grants to complete pre-development
activities (feasibility study, design, and permitting). Construction costs would be funded through a
combination of grants and/or private-sector finance such as loans or bonding. Construction
finance would depend on the project economics, business model adopted for the project, and
related factors that are not known at this time due to the preliminary status of this project.
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.)
The project concept is not sufficiently developed at this point in time to provide detailed O&M cost
estimates. No factors are currently known that would result in abnormally high or low O&M costs
compared to typical costs for small to medium-sized run-of-river hydroelectric projects in Alaska.
Typical costs for small to medium-sized hydroelectric projects in Alaska are approximately $0.01
to 0.03 per kWh.
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
Sale of power from a Carlo Creek project could take a number of forms. This application
assumes a power sales contract with GVEA for the project’s full output with a sale price equal to
GVEA’s system average avoided cost of energy. This rate varies quarterly from approximately
$0.10 to 0.12 per kWh.
4.4.4 Project Cost Worksheet
Complete the cost worksheet form which provides summary information that will be considered in
evaluating the project.
Please fill out the form provided below.
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Renewable Energy Source Carlo Creek Hydroelectric Project
The Applicant should demonstrate that the renewable energy resource is available on a
sustainable basis.
Annual average resource availability. Estimated capacity factor of 0.45 (45%)
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 Railbelt1 grid, leave this section blank)
i. Number of generators/boilers/other Railbelt
ii. Rated capacity of generators/boilers/other Railbelt
iii. Generator/boilers/other type Railbelt
iv. Age of generators/boilers/other Railbelt
v. Efficiency of generators/boilers/other Railbelt
b) Annual O&M cost (if system is part of the Railbelt grid, leave this section blank)
i. Annual O&M cost for labor Railbelt
ii. Annual O&M cost for non-labor Railbelt
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] Railbelt
ii. Fuel usage
Diesel [gal] Railbelt
Other Railbelt
iii. Peak Load Railbelt
iv. Average Load Railbelt
v. Minimum Load Railbelt
vi. Efficiency Railbelt
vii. Future trends Railbelt
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 --
Proposed System Design Capacity and Fuel Usage
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.
Renewable Energy Fund Round VII
Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 2014-006 Grant Application Page 14 of 21 7/1/2013
(Include any projections for continued use of non-renewable fuels)
a) Proposed renewable capacity
(Wind, Hydro, Biomass, other)
[kW or MMBtu/hr]
Approximately 1,600 kW
b) Proposed annual electricity or heat production (fill in as applicable)
i. Electricity [kWh] Approximately 6,300,000 kWh annually
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 ~485,000 gallons of fuel oil annually.
(Assumes GVEA displaces fuel oil for 100% of hydro
project output at generation efficiency of 13 kWh/gallon)
Project Cost
a) Total capital cost of new system $7,880,000
b) Development cost $480,000
c) Annual O&M cost of new system $75,000
d) Annual fuel cost $0
Project Benefits
a) Amount of fuel displaced for
i. Electricity ~24,250,000 gallons of fuel oil and equivalents (over 50 year life)
ii. Heat --
iii. Transportation --
b) Current price of displaced fuel $3.26 per gallon (ISER 2013)
c) Other economic benefits --
d) Alaska public benefits $1.58 million annually in avoided fuel cost. (ISER 2013)
Power Purchase/Sales Price
a) Price for power purchase/sale $0.104 per kWh (2013 AEA/ISER Price Model)
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Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 2014-006 Grant Application Page 15 of 21 7/1/2013
Project Analysis
a) Basic Economic Analysis
Project benefit/cost ratio $13.27 million / 7.02 million = 1.89 (ISER 2013 Model)
Payback (years) $8.36 million / $1.57 million = simple payback 5.3 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.
This project would reduce electric rates for the entire GVEA service area, which includes over
100,000 people consuming approximately 300,000,000 kWh annually. This project would
annually displace approximately 6,300,000 kWh of the most costly energy now generated by
GVEA (fueled with naptha/diesel). Under prevailing policies, energy from this project would cost
GVEA approximately $0.104 per kWh (GVEA’s system average avoided cost), and would
displace energy costing GVEA approximately $0.20 per kWh (GVEA’s incremental avoided cost).
Thus, the project would save GVEA approximately $604,800 annually (6,300,000 kWh x
($0.20/kWh - $0.104/kWh)). Divided over GVEA’s total sales, the savings from this single
relatively small project would benefit a population of over 100,000 with a rate reduction of
approximately $0.002 per kWh.
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 estimated annual fuel displacement by the project would be approximately 485,000 gallons
of fuel oil or equivalents (naptha) burned by GVEA. This is based on 6,300,000 kWh of hydro
generation and a fuel efficiency of 13 kWh per gallon at GVEA. At an assumed fuel cost of
$3.26 per gallon, this is valued at $1.58 million annually.
A wholesale power purchase contract with GVEA would likely be at their system average
avoided cost. Energy has an assumed value of $0.104 per kWh (based on the 2013 AEA/ISER
price model for the northern railbelt). Estimated annual project revenue with these assumptions
is $655,200.
Several entities have expressed an interest in purchasing the clean energy from hydro projects
in the region. This is most easily achieved through the sale of ‘Green Tags’ or selling the
environmental attributes of the project separately from the physical electricity. Green Tags on
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Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 2014-006 Grant Application Page 16 of 21 7/1/2013
the voluntary market have stabilized at a price of approximately $0.001 per kWh, which would
result in incremental revenue of $6,300 per year assuming that all Green Tags from the project
were sold.
All cities connected to the railbelt grid would benefit from this project. This project would
increase the amount of renewable energy available to the railbelt, decreasing dependence on
fossil fuels, which in the case of natural gas in Cook Inlet is a diminishing resource and in the
case of fuel oils in Fairbanks is very costly. Coal is inexpensive and stably-priced, however the
potential for future carbon taxes would increase the cost of electricity from coal.
This project would also provide the following non-economic benefits:
1. If supported by the land owners and local public, the access road to the intake could be used
for public access into the Carlo Creek valley for hiking, hunting, or other recreational
pursuits. This would enhance the local tourist industry by providing another local destination
for tourists.
2. The project would employ a local operator who would be responsible for routine oversight of
the project (being on-call for project emergencies, performing routine maintenance, etc.).
The project would also generate part-time local jobs for less frequent maintenance activities
such as trail repair and equipment maintenance.
3. The project would provide useful information for other hydroelectric projects in the state
regarding seasonal or year-round operation of run-of-river hydroelectric projects in cold
climates. Specific information would include operation of intakes, penstock icing, and
techniques to minimize O&M requirements for winter operation.
4. The project would help to improve the reliability of the electric grid for Cantwell and
surrounding communities by creating a local generation source that can help keep the lights
on when the Alaska Intertie System is out of service. Wintertime flow in Carlo Creek is likely
insufficient to serve typical winter loads (250 to 500 kW) on the Cantwell area distribution
system, but the Project would be able to serve the community during blackouts occurring
during the summer and fall seasons.
5. The project would decrease power plant emissions in Fairbanks and surrounding areas,
helping to improve air quality in this region.
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 description of the direct and indirect public benefits derived from the
project as well as the private sector benefits and complete the table below. See section 1.6 in
the Request for Applications for more information.
Not Applicable. The project’s full output is assumed to be sold to GVEA.
Renewable energy resource availability (kWh per month) NA
Estimated sales (kWh) NA
Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use at
private sector businesses ($)
NA
Estimated sales (kWh) NA
Revenue for displacing diesel generation for use by the
Alaskan public ($)
NA
Renewable Energy Fund Round VII
Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 2014-006 Grant Application Page 17 of 21 7/1/2013
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
Selection of business structures is premature given the preliminary state of investigations at Carlo
Creek. While the NVC has not begun to evaluate business options, some potential business
structures could include:
1. Become an IPP and obtain QF status, exemption, or utility certification from the RCA
2. Joint venture with GVEA
3. Form a new electric utility and assume responsibility for providing electric service in Cantwell
and the surrounding area.
Economic evaluations used in this application assume an IPP business model with power sales at
GVEA’s system average avoided cost. Evaluations indicate this provides sufficient revenue for
the project and provides a substantial public benefit by lowering GVEA costs.
O&M costs for the project would be funded by revenues from sale of electricity. The market value
of the electricity easily exceeds likely O&M costs.
No unusual operational issues are known at this time.
Operational costs would include periodic scheduled overhauls of the turbines, generators, and
ancillary equipment, diversion and intake maintenance (trash rack clearing, etc), and related
hydro project operations. The Alaska Intertie System would provide backup for the hydro and
also would provide a market for hydro generation in excess of local needs.
The NVC commits to reporting the savings and benefits associated with the Carlo Creek
hydroelectric project.
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.
If this study is funded, the NVC will be ready to start the study in July or August 2014 so time-
critical activities such as stream gauging can be initiated before the onset of winter. The NVC
has an existing relationship with Polarconsult Alaska, Inc. and will coordinate with Polarconsult to
Renewable Energy Fund Round VII
Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 2014-006 Grant Application Page 18 of 21 7/1/2013
ensure timely completion of these seasonally sensitive activities.
The NVC successfully managed and completed a similar study at Jack River in 2013 under a
Round 4 Renewable Energy Fund Program Grant. That study included expedited mobilization of
a drill rig to Cantwell to install a stream gauging station before freeze up in November 2011,
shortly after the Grant Agreement was signed in October 2011. That grant was successfully
closed out in the 2nd quarter of 2013.
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.
Attached to this application are letters of support from Usibelli Coal Mine, Inc., GVEA, Ahtna,
Inc., the Denali Borough, and Denali National Park and Preserve.
The NVC is not aware of any opposition to this project.
SECTION 9 – GRANT 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
as an applicant.
Provide a narrative summary regarding funding source and your financial commitment to the
project
The Native Village of Cantwell is requesting a grant in the amount of $54,000 for a
reconnaissance study of the Carlo Creek Hydro Project. Village members will donate their time
and experience to this project until this project is complete.
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.
NVC expects that the control and monitoring equipment installed for the project will be capable
of providing the necessary data to fulfill AEA’s annual reporting requirements. NVC estimates
that the annual cost of complying with AEA’s reporting requirement will be approximately $1,000
for the labor required to compile and reduce data and operating information and prepare the
annual report. Over ten years, the total cost is estimated at $10,000.
Renewable Energy Fund Round VII
Grant Application - Standard Form
AEA 2014-006 Grant Application Page 19 of 21 7/1/2013
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
Grant Agreement with AEA
Notice to
Proceed = 0
months
1. Project Management,
Scoping and Contractor
Solicitation
End of 1st
month $0 $3,500 Native Village
of Cantwell $3,500
2. Resource Identification and
Analysis
End of 10th
month $12,500 $2,500 $15,000
3. Land Use, Permitting and
Environmental Analysis
End of 10th
month $4,500 $0 $4,500
4. Preliminary Design Analysis
and Cost Estimate
End of 10th
month $10,000 $0 $10,000
5. Cost of Energy and Market
Analysis
End of 10th
month $5,000 $0 $5,000
6. Economic Analysis End of 10th
month $5,000 $0 $5,000
7. Draft Final Report End of 11th
month $15,000 $0 $15,000
8. Final Report End of 12th
month $2,000 $0 $2,000
TOTALS $54,000 $6,000 $60,000
Budget Categories:
Direct Labor & Benefits $0 $3,000 Native Village
of Cantwell $3,000
Travel & Per Diem $0 $750 Native Village
of Cantwell $750
Equipment $0 $2,000 Native Village
of Cantwell $2,000
Materials & Supplies $0 $250 Native Village
of Cantwell $250
Contractual Services $54,000 $0 $54,000
Construction Services $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0
TOTALS $54,000 $6,000 $60,000
ATTACHMENT A
PROJECT TEAM CONTACT INFORMATION
AND QUALIFICATIONS
ATTACHMENT B
LETTERS OF SUPPORT
September 23rd, 2013
Mr. Arnel Hernandez, Administrator
Native Village of Cantwell
PO Box 94
Cantwell, AK 99729
Re: Carlo Creek Hydro Project
Dear Mr. Hernandez,
This letter is written in support of the efforts by the Native Village of Cantwell to perform a
reconnaissance study for a hydro power project in Carlo Creek near Cantwell, Alaska.
Carlo Creek drains approximately 12 square miles of the Alaska Range. The proposed run-of-river
hydro project would divert an estimated 50 cfs from Carlo Creek at an elevation of approximately
2,700 feet, divert it through an approximately 6,000 to 10,000 foot long penstock to a powerhouse
near the Parks Highway at an elevation of 2,000 to 2,200 feet. Estimated installed capacity is 1.5
MW, and annual energy generation is estimated at 5,256,000 kWh per year.
The Carlo Creek (Project) appears to make good sense from several perspectives. The mega hydro
projects currently receiving most of the attention have technical and environmental hurdles to
overcome and, if feasible, will take a decade or more to permit and build. From my knowledge of
the area, Carlo Creek appears to be a site that is technically feasible and environmentally attractive
for a small hydro facility. The Project should be able to be brought on line in a relatively short time
frame.
Usibelli Coal Mine, Inc. is involved in looking at renewable energy resources in the Healy area and
supports the concept of small distributed renewable generation. I believe there are many similar
sites throughout Alaska that could provide good low head power production, with little
environmental risk and relatively low cost. Although each unit may be small, they can be built in
reasonable cost increments and add up to a significant addition in generating capacity.
Good luck in your development of the Project. It will be good for Cantwell, the Denali Borough
and the Railbelt and hopefully can lead the way to many future projects of a similar nature in the
Railbelt and throughout Alaska.
Sincerely,
Robert Brown
V.P. Business Development
Cc: Joel D. Groves
ATTACHMENT C
(NOT A HEAT APPLICATION – NOT APPLICABLE)
ATTACHMENT D
GOVERNING BODY RESOLUTION
ATTACHMENT E
ELECTRONIC VERSION OF APPLICATION
ATTACHMENT F
ADDITIONAL PROJECT INFORMATION
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT RECONNAISSANCE STUDY GRANT APPLICATION
NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL APPENDIX F
AEA RFA 2014‐006: ROUND 7,RENEWABLE ENERGY FUND PAGE 1 OF 7
APPENDIX F: SUPPLEMENTAL PROJECT INFORMATION
F1: Project Maps pages 2‐5
F2: Preliminary Project Cost Estimate page 6
F3: Preliminary Hydrology Estimate page 7
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT RECONNAISSANCE STUDY GRANT APPLICATION
NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL APPENDIX F
AEA RFA 2014‐006: ROUND 7,RENEWABLE ENERGY FUND PAGE 2 OF 7
Map 1: Project Location
R7W R6W
T15S
T16S
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT RECONNAISSANCE STUDY GRANT APPLICATION NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL APPENDIX F AEA RFA 2014‐006: ROUND 7,RENEWABLE ENERGY FUND PAGE 3 OF 7 Map 2: General Land Status in Project Area (Downloaded from BLM SDMS Website, September 6, 2013) Proposed Project Study AreaProposed Penstock RouteParks HighwayT15S T16S R7W R6W
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT RECONNAISSANCE STUDY GRANT APPLICATION NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL APPENDIX F AEA RFA 2014‐006: ROUND 7,RENEWABLE ENERGY FUND PAGE 4 OF 7 Map 3: ADF&G Anadromous Fish Atlas for Project Area (Downloaded from ADFG Website, September 6, 2013) Nearest Listed Anadromous Fish Habitat (downstream on Nenana River)Carlo Creek Parks Highway
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT RECONNAISSANCE STUDY GRANT APPLICATION NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL APPENDIX F AEA RFA 2014‐006: ROUND 7,RENEWABLE ENERGY FUND PAGE 5 OF 7 Map 4: Topography in Project Area and Proposed Penstock Profile APPROXIMATE INTERTIE LOCATION
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT RECONNAISSANCE STUDY GRANT APPLICATION
NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL APPENDIX F
AEA RFA 2014‐006: ROUND 7,RENEWABLE ENERGY FUND PAGE 6 OF 7
F.2: Preliminary Cost Estimate for Carlo Creek
A preliminary cost estimate (Table 1) was developed for Carlo Creek based on the assumed
project configuration shown on the maps in section F.1, project technical data as described in
this application, preliminary estimates of material quantities, and estimated unit costs for these
materials.
Table 1: Preliminary Carlo Creek Hydroelectric Project Cost Estimate
Item Estimated Cost
Preconstruction Cost (reconnaissance, feasibility, design, permitting) $470,000
Construction
Power Line Extension $110,000
Site Access Roads / Trails $530,000
Diversion / Intake Structure $520,000
Penstock $1,500,000
Powerhouse Building, Tailrace $600,000
Turbine / Generator $990,000
Controls / Switchgear $200,000
Construction Equipment $550,000
Shipping $210,000
Direct Construction Cost Total $5,210,000
Project Management $250,000
Construction Engineering $250,000
Total Installed Cost $6,180,000
Contingency (35%) $2,160,000
Project Cost Estimate $8,340,000
Estimated Installed Cost per kW $5,215
Comparison of project cost estimate against comparable Alaska hydro projects.
Carlo Creek Estimate:
Project Year
Commissioned
Capacity
(kW)
Installed
Cost per kW Notes
Carlo Creek (Estimate) NA 1,600 $5,215 Initial Estimate
Kasidaya Creek
(Skagway, AK) 2008 3,000 $3,300
Remote site south of Skagway.
Cost from Skagway News, Nov.
26, 2008.
South Fork
(Eagle River, AK) 2013 1,000 $3,000 Cost as reported by Owner.
CARLO CREEK HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT RECONNAISSANCE STUDY GRANT APPLICATION
NATIVE VILLAGE OF CANTWELL APPENDIX F
AEA RFA 2014‐006: ROUND 7,RENEWABLE ENERGY FUND PAGE 7 OF 7
Preliminary Hydrology Estimate for Carlo Creek Hydro Project
(showing existing normalized hydrology data for select regional streams and rivers)
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
January February March April May June July August September October November December
Day of YearCFS per Square Mile of BasinSusitna at Gold Creek
Seattle C nr Cantwell
Nenana R nr Windy
Nenana R nr Healy
Nenana R at Healy
Lignite C ab Mouth nr Healy
Teklanika R nr Lignite
Carlo Creek Model
40 cfs design flow
(40 cfs / 15.2 mi2= 2.6 cfs/mi2)
F.3: Preliminary Hydrology Estimate for Carlo Creek
Existing hydrology information collected by the U.S. Geological Survey for rivers and streams in
the general vicinity of Carlo Creek was reviewed to develop preliminary estimates of hydrology
for Carlo Creek. Figure 1 presents normalized stream flow for several gauged rivers in the Carlo
Creek region, and estimated hydrology for Carlo Creek. The preliminary design flow of 40 cubic
feet per second (cfs, equal to 2.6 cfs per square mile of basin area) is also shown on Figure 1.
The plant capacity factor is estimated at 45%.
Figure 1: Preliminary Hydrology Estimate for Carlo Creek