HomeMy WebLinkAboutEklunta Hunter Creek Grant Application4
GRANT APPLICATION
– FOR –
HUNTER CREEK HYDROELECTRIC
PROJECT
RECONNAISSANCE STUDY
SEPTEMBER 15, 2010
– SUBMITTED TO –
ALASKA ENERGY AUTHORITY
RENEWABLE ENERGY GRANT PROGRAM – ROUND IV
RFA #AEA-11-005
– SUBMITTED BY –
EKLUTNA, INC.
16515 CENTERFIELD DRIVE, SUITE 201
EAGLE RIVER, AK 99577
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 2 of 22 9/9/2010
SECTION 1 – APPLICANT INFORMATION
Name (Name of utility, IPP, or government entity submitting proposal)
EKLUTNA, INC.
Type of Entity:
ALASKA NATIVE CORPORATION
Mailing Address
16515 CENTERFIELD DRIVE, SUITE 201
EAGLE RIVER, ALASKA 99577
Physical Address
- SAME -
Telephone
907-696-2828
Fax
907-696-2845
Email
info@eklutnainc.com
1.1 APPLICANT POINT OF CONTACT / GRANTS MANAGER
Name
JIM A. ARNESEN
Title
CORPORATE LANDS AND REGULATORY MANAGER
Mailing Address
16515 CENTERFIELD DRIVE, SUITE 201
EAGLE RIVER, ALASKA 99577
Telephone
907-696-2828
Fax
907-696-2845
Email
Jim@eklutnainc.com
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
X An independent power producer in accordance with 3 AAC 107.695 (a) (1), or
A local government, or
A governmental entity (which includes tribal councils and housing authorities);
YES
1.2.2. Attached to this application is formal approval and endorsement for its project by
its 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.
YES
1.2.4. If awarded the grant, we can comply with all terms and conditions of the attached
grant form. (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.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 3 of 22 9/9/2010
SECTION 2 – PROJECT SUMMARY
This is intended to be no more than a 1-2 page overview of your project.
2.1 Project Title – (Provide a 4 to 5 word title for your project)
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric 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.
The project is located on Hunter Creek, a tributary of the Knik River. Refer to USGS quadrangle
Anchorage B-5 for a map of the project location. A map is also included in Attachment I of this
application.
2.3 PROJECT TYPE
Put X in boxes as appropriate
2.3.1 Renewable Resource Type
Wind Biomass or Biofuels
X Hydro, including run of river Transmission of Renewable Energy
Geothermal, including Heat Pumps Small Natural Gas
Heat Recovery from existing sources Hydrokinetic
Solar Storage of Renewable
Other (Describe)
2.3.2 Proposed Grant Funded Phase(s) for this Request (Check all that apply)
X Reconnaissance Design and Permitting
Feasibility Construction and Commissioning
Conceptual Design
2.4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Provide a brief one paragraph description of your proposed project.
The Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project is a potential hydroelectric resource in the Matanuska-
Susitna Valley with an estimated installed capacity of 6.5 MW. This proposed reconnaissance
study will investigate the resource to determine if a project is viable and to also perform
preliminary feasibility work on the project location, size, and resource availability.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 4 of 22 9/9/2010
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, etc.)
A reconnaissance study of the Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project will benefit the railbelt
population by determining if a viable hydroelectric project can be constructed at Hunter Creek.
In the near term, the public benefit is the cost to perform the study. If the project is viable and
constructed, the public will benefit from competitively-priced clean renewable energy.
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 cost of the reconnaissance study will be $100,000. Of this cost, Eklutna, Inc. will contribute
$4,000 as in-kind services and $12,000 as a cash match.
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. $ 84,000
2.7.2 Other Funds to be provided (Project match) $ 16,000
2.7.3 Total Grant Costs (sum of 2.7.1 and 2.7.2) $ 100,000
Project Costs & Benefits
(Summary of total project costs including work to date and future cost estimates to get to a fully
operational project)
2.7.4 Total Project Cost (Summary from Cost Worksheet
including estimates through construction)
$25,000,000
2.7.5 Estimated Direct Financial Benefit (Savings) $44,430,000
2.7.6 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 your application
(Section 5.)
Improve air quality,
encourage local economic
development, stabilize local
energy costs.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 5 of 22 9/9/2010
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). 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.
Jim Arnesen will be the project manager for Eklutna, Inc. Jim will be responsible for hiring and
managing consultants, processing invoices, interfacing with the grant administrators, and
insuring compliance with all grant conditions.
3.2 Project Schedule
Include a schedule for the proposed work that will be funded by this grant. (You may include a
chart or table attachment with a summary of dates below.)
The reconnaissance study will take 14 months due to the need to collect approximately one year
of hydrology data for Hunter Creek. The scheduled completion of major project tasks is
summarized below.
Contract with consultant to perform the study July 2011
Resource identification and analysis August 2012
Land use, permitting and environmental analysis July 2012
Preliminary design and cost analysis August 2012
Reconnaissance-level economic analysis August 2012
Final report and recommendations September 2012
3.3 Project Milestones
Define key tasks and decision points in your project and a schedule for achieving them. The
Milestones must also be included on your budget worksheet to demonstrate how you propose to
manage the project cash flow. (See Section 2 of the RFA or the Budget Form.)
The following milestones are proposed:
RECONNAISSANCE
Contract with consultant to perform the study
Resource identification and analysis (stream gauging, site inspections)
Land use, permitting and environmental analysis
Preliminary design and cost analysis
Reconnaissance-level economic analysis
Final report and recommendations
ADMINISTRATION
Quarterly reports as required by AEA
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 6 of 22 9/9/2010
3.4 Project Resources
Describe the personnel, contractors, 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.
Eklutna, Inc. plans to contract with Polarconsult Alaska, Inc. to perform the reconnaissance
study work. Information about Polarconsult Alaska, Inc. is included in Attachment A.
3.5 Project Communications
Discuss how you plan to monitor the project and keep the Authority informed of the status.
Jim Arnesen will be the primary point of communications. He will coordinate all efforts
between AEA, Eklutna, and consultant(s). Mr. Arnesen will provide quarterly reports to AEA.
3.6 Project Risk
Discuss potential problems and how you would address them.
The project only involves data collection and evaluation of the potential resource. Field
activities will be conducted by consultants that will carry necessary insurance and will conduct
work in a manner consistent with standard industry practice.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 7 of 22 9/9/2010
SECTION 4 – PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND TASKS
Tell us what the project is and how you will meet the requirements outlined in Section 2 of
the RFA.
The level of information will vary according to phase(s) of the project you propose to
undertake with grant funds.
If you are applying for grant funding for more than one phase of a project provide a
plan and grant budget form for completion of each phase.
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.
A preliminary configuration for the Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project is presented below. This
preliminary assessment will be refined in the reconnaissance study.
Hunter Creek Data
cross basin pipeline 13,000 ft
main pipeline 8,000 ft
West Basin area 35.4 sq mi
East Basin area 23.3 sq mi
Total basin area 58.6 sq mi
transmission line - knik 11 mi
Static Head 700 ft
Cross Pipeline Diameter 36 in
Flow 60 cfs
Headloss 53 ft
Main Pipeline Diameter (48")48 in
Flow 160 cfs
Max Headloss 56 ft
Efficiency 75%
Power 6,500 kW
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.
This project is located on the southern railbelt – not applicable.
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.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 8 of 22 9/9/2010
This project is located on the southern railbelt. The southern railbelt predominantly relies on
nature gas for electrical generation (approximately 90%) and hydroelectric power for the balance
(approximately 10%).
The local electric utility, Matanuska Electric Association, Inc. (MEA) has plans to install a new
gas-fired power plant at Eklutna. Eklutna, Inc. has worked with MEA to provide a site for this
new facility. MEA is considering installing a series of reciprocating engines with individual
capacity of approximately 7 MW each.
This project is expected to fit very well with MEA’s proposed generation plans as it would allow
MEA to completely shut down one of their gensets for much of the summer, and significantly
curtail loadings during the winter months. This would save MEA significant costs on avoided
O&M and fuel for the displaced genset.
4.2.3 Existing Energy Market
Discuss existing energy use and its market. Discuss impacts your project may have on energy
customers.
This project is located in MEA territory in the southern railbelt. MEA’s Board has adopted a
policy of encouraging renewable energy development. The regional utilities also have a stated
desire to diversify their generation assets, which this project would help achieve. This project
would require the upgrade of approximately 11 miles of old, unreliable single phase distribution
line along the south side of the Knik River. Replacing this line would improve reliability and
quality of service to MEA’s customers in this area.
Also, having this project on the MEA system would help to stabilize and lower energy prices for
MEA customers. It would also decrease the utility’s exposure to carbon taxes and related
environmental costs of relying on non-renewable hydrocarbon fuels for power generation.
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
Run of the river hydroelectric project with two intakes, a penstock and pelton turbine(s).
Preliminary estimated installed capacity: 6,500 kW.
Preliminary estimated capacity factor: 58%
Preliminary estimated annual generation: 34,100,000 kWh
Anticipated barriers: None
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 9 of 22 9/9/2010
Integration concept: Switchgear will allow hydro to run in parallel with existing railbelt
generation. Project would be dispatched by MEA or their designated integrated system
operator (ISO).
Delivery Method: New 3-ph distribution line to tie hydro powerhouse into existing 115
kV line at bridge over Knik River on Old Glenn Highway, or closer adequate existing
distribution lines. This would replace the existing very old 1 ph line that causes MEA
significant reliability and repair problems. The extent of line upgrades will be determined
as part of the reconnaissance study.
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.
Most of the land for the project is owned by Eklutna, Inc. This study will also evaluate other land
ownership once project locations are evaluated.
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
This study will include analysis of permit issues and compliance requirements.
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
This study will include analysis of potential environmental impacts associated with the project.
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
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 10 of 22 9/9/2010
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
The reconnaissance study will provide preliminary cost estimates. The cost worksheet assumes a
total development cost of about $3,850 per kW of installed capacity.
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 reconnaissance study will provide preliminary O&M cost estimates. O&M costs of $0.015
per kWh are assumed.
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 projected energy costs in AEA’s 2010 energy model and spreadsheet using the mid-range
EIA energy forecasts for the southern railbelt are used as estimated power purchase rates. These
start at $6.5 cents/kWh in 2014.
4.4.4 Project Cost Worksheet
Complete the cost worksheet form which provides summary information that will be considered
in evaluating the project.
Download the form, complete it, and submit it as an attachment. Document any conditions or
sources your numbers are based on here.
The Cost Worksheet is attached at the end of this application. Projections and calculations are
performed using AEA’s project evaluation spreadsheet.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 11 of 22 9/9/2010
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 (gal and $) 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 reconnaissance study will provide a preliminary analysis of the benefits of the project. For
this application, AEA’s project evaluation spreadsheet has been used to estimate benefits.
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
Hydroelectric projects are the most sustainable form of energy generation known. Numerous
projects in Alaska have been in service for nearly a century, and many projects around the world
have been in service for over a century – essentially since the beginning of the electric age. Many
of these projects continue to function with their original capital equipment such as turbines, intake
structures, and pipelines.
Eklutna, Inc. will evaluate business structures and concepts during the reconnaissance study. A
separate company (subsidiary) may be established for the project if the outcome of the
reconnaissance study is favorable. Eklutna, Inc. is a sophisticated business that possesses the in-
house expertise and outside resources necessary to manage the development and operation of this
project.
O&M costs of the project would be financed from power sales revenues. Funds for long-term
O&M activities would be established to insure the long term financial health of the project. These
and related financial management needs would be explored in more detail in future studies if the
outcome of the reconnaissance study is favorable.
Operational issues typical to run-of-river hydroelectric projects can be expected. No unusual
issues are known at this time.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application Page 12 of 22 9/9/2010
Operational costs are estimated at $0.015 per kWh, or $555,000 annually. This estimate will be
refined in the reconnaissance study. Costs of existing generation systems would be handled by
MEA.
Eklutna, Inc. readily commits to reporting the savings and benefits this project would bring to the
local community.
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.
Eklutna, Inc. has contacted Polarconsult Alaska, Inc. regarding the project and Polarconsult has
agreed to contract for reconnaissance work. Work on this project can begin shortly after receipt
of funds from AEA.
No other funds have been awarded for this project. Eklutna Inc. has received a variety of other
grants for other purposes in the past, and has successfully managed these grant-funded projects.
SECTION 8– LOCAL SUPORT
Discuss what local support or possible opposition there may be regarding your project. Include
letters of support from the community that would benefit from this project.
The railbelt utilities are generally in support of evaluating potentially economically viable
renewable resources to add to the railbelt generation portfolio.
SECTION 9 – GRANT BUDGET
Tell us how much you want 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.
Include an estimate of budget costs by milestones using the form – GrantBudget3.doc
Grant Funds: $84,000
Matching Funds and In-Kind: $16,000
Reconnaissance Total: $100,000
Renewable Energy Fund Round IV
Grant Application
Indian River Hydroelectric Project – Design and Permitting
AEA 11-005 Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010
ATTACHMENT A – CONTACT INFORMATION AND RESUMES
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS - HYDROELECTRIC
1
RECENT POLARCONSULT PROJECTS & PROJECT REFERENCES
Polarconsult has extensive experience working on all aspects of hydroelectric development.
From reconnaissance, feasibility, permitting, design, construction, inspection, operation,
maintenance, monitoring, and retrofitting, Polarconsult’s professional staff understands all
aspects of hydroelectric projects. Engineering budgets for past and current projects range from
tens of thousands to over a million dollars.
Polarconsult principals designed, built, own and operate the McRobert’s Creek Hydro, located
near Palmer, Alaska. The many lessons learned from owning and operating our own
hydroelectric project translates into valuable experience that pays off immensely for other
projects. One of the biggest obstacles to proper operation of a hydroelectric facility is intake
design. After numerous refinements, Polarconsult has designed and constructed an intake for the
McRobert’s project that operates automatically and virtually maintenance free even when
subje cted to the onslaught of debris brought about by floods and seasonal changes.
Another successful project, located in Pelican, Alaska, involved designing a steel support system
for an aging timber crib dam. Limited by helicopter access and narrow construct ion windows,
the location required a design that not only withstood the large forces of floods but needed to be
light enough and simple enough to be airlifted and quickly put into permanent place. Accurate
surveying, 3-D design, and close coordination wit h the project owner all resulted in a unique and
successful solution without an extravagant budget.
The experience and knowledge that Polarconsult’s professionals bring to a project are
exemplified by our work on the Kasidaya Creek hydroelectric project. Brought in by Alaska
Power and Telephone due to excessive costs on a tunnel and intake for a project that was in the
midst of construction, Polarconsult spent half a day in the field at the project site and provided
valuable insight and advice that changed the course of the construction to reduce project costs
and maintenance. Polarconsult’s recommendations to provide an access route up the creek to the
intake site were ultimately adopted into the now completed project.
All of Polarconsult’s core professionals have been involved in the numerous engineering
challenges surrounding hydroelectric projects for many years. Any one of our professional
engineers is more than capable of successfully identifying all the issues in a hydroelectric project
and using our comprehensive background and knowledge to forge solutions that aren’t narrowly
focused or short sighted.
SELECTED PROJECT PROFILES
Project: Pelican Dam Reinforcement and Penstock Design
Client: Pelican Seafoods
Reference Contact: Tom Whitmarsh, Pelican Seafoods, 907-735-2204
Engineering Budget: $175,000
Description
The Pelican Hydroelectric Power Plant was first constructed around 1946 to supply water and
power to the Pelican Seafoods Cannery constructed around the same time. A Dam Safety Review
determined that there was potential for failure of the existing timber crib dam during flood stages.
A field investigation was conducted to prepare an as-built of the existing timber crib dam, intake
structure, timber flume, wood stave penstock, and power plant. A unique design was arrived at to
shore up the existing dam to be stable under flood stages, and upgrade the existing intake to cut
down head losses.
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS - HYDROELECTRIC
2
Additionally, Polarconsult recently completed a design for replacement of the original flume,
surge tank, and elevated penstock. The design includes a new surge tank, new penstock, and
modifications to the intake and dam wing walls.
Project: Chignik Relicense
Client: Trident Seafoods
Reference Contact: Mike Duckworth, Trident Seafoods, 206-617-6612
Engineering Budget: $150,000
Description
Included in a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) License are significant efforts and
coordination relating to the development of the Environmental Assessment. Activities include:
· National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) scoping meetings
· Stream Gauging
· Fish Surveys
· Geomorphological surveys of Indian River including fish habitat analysis
· Dissemination of all data and correspondence through the development of a Project web
page and through traditional hard copy to over 50 particpants
The entire relicensing process was completed under the “applicant prepared EA” process in less
than 2 years (typically licensing time is 3 to 5 years).
Project: Larsen Bay Hydroelectric
Client: CRW Engineering Group, LLC
Refer ence Contact: Lenny Landis, AEA, 440-9320
Engineering Budget: $16,000
Description
Performed original design of 475 kW project with a gross head of 665 feet and a flow of 11 cfs.
Subsequent work included site inspection and analysis of existing hydroelectric system with
recommendations for upgrades to existing intake and penstock, addition of drainage diversion to
increase water flow to plant for increased power production, and consulting on controls upgrades
to interconnect hydro plant to community diesel generation plant.
The work activities also included the following:
· Analysis of hydrologic data to determine maximum potential power output on a monthly
basis
· Development of a parts list and the performance of ultrasonic thickness testing of the
penstock in the powerhouse
· Inspection of cracked turbine blades for hydroelectric plant
· Recommendations for repair of turbine as appropriate to the City and AEA
Project: Atka Hydro
Client: Alaska Energy Authority and CRW Engineering Group, LLC.
Reference Contact: Julie Dirks, City of Atka, 907-581-6226
Engineering Budget: $200,000
Description
Designed the 270 kW hydroelectric facility in Atka that is currently under construction.
Activities include the following:
· Topographic surveying to layout project features and tie into known monuments
· Development of legal descriptions based on survey data and final design for necessary
easements
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS - HYDROELECTRIC
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· Investigation and description of anadromous fish affected by and in the project area
(including fish habitat assessments and setting of fish traps to capture and identify
species)
· Design of 1,060 feet of 30-inch diameter High Density Polyethylene Pipe (HDPE)
penstock
· Design of a cable stayed bridge spanning 100 feet
· Design of the 7.2/12.4 kV electrical cable connecting to the existing system
· Design of the powerhouse
· Specification of the turbine and generator
· Design of the 13-foot-high impoundment dam
Project: Fishhook Hydroelectric Project
Client: Fishhook Renewable Energy, LLC
Engineering Budget: $125,000
Description
Currently in the permitting phase, this project includes completion of a feasibility study,
permitting, and design of 2.0 MW run-of-river hydroelectric plant located on Fishhook Creek in
Hatcher Pass, Alaska. Performed surveying utilizing RTK GPS equipment and developed cost
estimates and a feasibility study by the fall of 2006.
Project: Kasidaya (Otter) Creek Intake
Client: Alaska Power & Telephone Company
Reference Contact: Vern Neitzer, AP&T, 907-983-2202
Engineering Budget: $15,000
Description
Site Inspection and project review. Provided a brief letter report to assist AP&T in seeking a
lower cost alternative for the intake and penstock tunnel that were in the original design. Project
was well into construction at the time. Made recommendations on an alternative for a dam,
intake configurations, access routes, and permitting actions. AP&T ultimately reconfigured the
original design based on our recommendations.
Project: Lace Hydro
Client: Lace River Hydro
Reference Contact: Bob Grimm, AP&T, 360-531-0320
Engineering Budget: $800,000
Description
Currently in the FERC licensing phase, this project involves feasibility investigation, FERC
permitting, and design of a 5 MW hydroplant in southeast Alaska. The Project intake is located
at an unnamed lake that would be used for storage. The lake has a surface area of approximately
384 acres. The dam intake is located at an elevation of 3,180 feet. From the intake, there would
be 7,600 feet of 21-inch diameter steel pipe leading to the powerhouse. The net hydraulic head is
3,000 feet. The project flow is estimated to be approximately 27 cfs. The total estimated energy
production of this project is 34,164,000 Kilowatt hours. Power transmission would consist of 5
miles of 14.4/24.9 kV buried cable and 7.1 miles of overhead transmission lines.
Project: McRobert's Creek Hydroelectric Project
Client: Earle Ausman, Enerdyne
Engineering Budget: $60,000
Description
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS - HYDROELECTRIC
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McRobert's Creek Hydroelectric Plant is an excellent example of how cost effective a small
hydroelectric plant in Alaska can be. McRobert's Creek is located three miles to the east of
Palmer and is fed by the rock glaciers that lay below Matanuska Peak. The mountainous and
rugged terrain required PCA to use non-conventional construction techniques to complete the
project. Due to the terrain it was not feasible or environmentally desirable to build a road to the
power plant. The project was completed in an environmentally sound and aesthetically pleasing
manner. Hikers and horseback riders now use the trail for access to Matanuska Peak. The "run
of the river" facility consists of a rock gabion diversion to funnel the water into a 4,200-foot,
twelve-inch-diameter polyethylene pipeline. A 7,000-gallon storage tank is used to regulate the
system so that a large dam and associated reservoir are not necessary. Other physical features
include 8,800 feet of phone line, 4,600 feet of 7,200 kVA power cable, 8,600 feet of access trail,
and a 12-foot by 12-foot concrete block powerhouse. The plant operates at 445 feet of gross head
and runs year round delivering 100 kW to the Matanuska Electric Authority grid. The plant was
designed and built by Polarconsult at a cost of $2,000 per kW. Polarconsult President Earle
Ausman is the owner of the facility.
Project: Southfork Hydro Plant
Client: South Fork Construction
Reference Contact: Phyllis Janke, South Fork Construction, 694-4351
Engineering Budget: $80,000
Description
Currently under construction and permitting, this project involves feasibility, design, and
per mitting of a 1.2 MW hydroplant on the south fork of Eagle River.
The South Fork Hydro project is a run-of-river plant with a capacity of 1,200 kW. Scheduled to
be completed in 2009, the project will use water from the South Fork of Eagle River which drains
a 26-square-mile area. The project will divert 53 cfs from the South Fork. The elevation of the
intake pool is 1,180 feet and the elevation of the draft tube pool where the turbines discharge is
803 feet for a gross head of 377 feet. The pipe will be 32-inch, SDR 32.5 high density
polyethylene pipe (HDPE). About 3,175 feet from the intake, the pipe will change to SDR 26.
This HDPE pipe continues for the next 175 feet where it transitions to 300 feet of 30-inch steel
pipe. There will be four 300 kW turbine-generator sets. One turbine will be a Pelton wheel with
4 jets which will turn at 1200 rpm. The turbine will drive a 300 kW induction generator. This
unit will be used to operate at all of the intermediate flows as it is an excellent partial load device.
The other 3 units will be pump-turbines which are centrifugal pumps run as turbines. They will
be vertical assemblies and will turn at 1800 rpm.
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS - HYDROELECTRIC
5
SELECTED PROJECT LIST
In addition to the projects listed under Selected Project Profiles, Polarconsult has performed
numerous feasibility studies and designs as the following list indicates.
Job Name Client Year
Knutson Creek Hydro Feasibility Study Pedro Bay Tribal Council 2009-10
Packer’s Creek Hydro Design and Permitting Chignik Lagoon Power Utility 2009-10
Burro Creek Hydro Study Burro Creek Holdings, LLC 2009-10
Old Harbor FERC Licensing Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. 2009-10
Indian River Hydro Feasibility Study, Conceptual
Design and Permitting City of Tenakee Springs 2009-10
Elfin Cove Reconnaissance and Feasibility Study Community of Elfin Cove 2009-10
Pedro Bay Reconnaissance Study Pedro Bay Tribal Council 2009
Pelican Hydroelectric Upgrade Design Alaska Energy & Engineering, Inc. 2008-10
Fourth of July Creek Reconnaissance Study Independence Power, LLC 2008
Glacier Fork Hydro Reconnaissance Study Glacier Fork Hydro, LLC 2008
Pelican Hydroelectric Retrofit Alaska Energy Authority 2007
Archangel Creek Hydro Jill Reese Investments & Brokerage 2007
O'Brien Creek Recon naissance Survey Alaska Energy Authority 2007
Fishhook Hydroelectric Project Fishhook Renewable Energy, LLC 2007
Allison Lake Hydro Project Green Power Development, LLC 2007
Atka Hydro Cost Estimate Alaska Energy Authority 2007
Chitina Conceptual Design Alaska Energy Authority 2006
Kasidaya (Otter) Creek Intake Alaska Power & Telephone Company 2006
Larsen Bay Alaska Energy Authority 2006
Chuniisax Hydro Phase 3 Alaska Energy Authority 2006
Chignik Bay Scoping Field Trip Alaska Energy Authority 2005
Atka Hydro Design Changes and Inspection Alaska Energy Authority 2005
Larsen Bay Turbine Repair City of Larsen Bay 2005
Old Harbor Archiving Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. 2005
Chignik Dam Inspection Norquest Seafoods Inc 2004
Larsen Bay Hydroelectric Upgrade Alaska Energy Authority 2004
Chignik Stream Gauge Installation Alaska Energy Authority 2004
Atka Revisions Alaska Energy Authority 2004
Chignik Relicense Trident Seafoods 2003
Atka Hydro Design City of Atka 2003
Old Harbor Project Review Alaska Energy Authority 2002
Atka Hydro F&G City of Atka 2002
Scammon Stream Gauging Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. 2002
Old Harbor - Alternate Powerhouse Location Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. 2002
Old Harbor Project Comparison Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. 2001
Pelican Penstock Design Pelican Seafoods 2001
Old Harbor Hydro Project - Design Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. 2000
Old Harbor Hydro Project - FERC Licensing Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. 1999
Chignik Dam Survey Norquest Seafoods Inc 1999
Southfork Hydro Plant South Fork Construction 1998
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS - HYDROELECTRIC
6
Job Name Client Year
Lace Hydro Lace River Hydro, LLC 1997
Atka Hydro Investigation City of Atka 1996
Chignik Lagoon Hydro Study Chignik Lagoon 1995
Old Harbor Hydropower Feasibility Study Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, Inc. 1995
Terror Lake desander Tango Construction Co 1994
Tenakee Springs/Indian River Hydro City of Tenakee Springs 1993
Pelican Seafoods Hydroelectric Renovation Pelican Seafoods 1993
Angoon Hydroelectric Investigation Alaska Energy Authority 1992
Humpback Creek Hydroelectric Cordova Electric 1992
Snyder Falls Hydroelectric Study Earl Ellis & Associates 1990
McRobert’s Creek Hydroelectric Project Earle Ausman 1990
Larsen Bay Hydroelectric Plant City of Larsen Bay 1990
Snettisham Hydroelectric Project US Army Corps of Engineers, Alaska District 1989
Chitina Micro Hydro Project Chitina Village Council 1989
Burnett Inlet Hydroelectric Plant Design Alaska Aquaculture 1988
Ouzinkie Hydroelectric Plant City of Ouzinkie 1986
In addition, Polarconsult’s project team has extensive experience with design and force account
construction of many types of rural projects in addition to hydro. These include utility design
and construction management of water, sewer, and electrical projects. Much of this work was
performed for the City of St. Paul, and our experience extends to many other communities
throughout Alaska as well. It is important to emphasize that most of the work is performed by
force account using local labor and other resources.
Polarconsult believes it is important to have people build their own projects so they can operate
and repair them. It is also important to make them economical and keep the maximum amount of
money in the community.
REPRESENTATIVE HYDROELECTRIC PROJECTS
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PPOOLLAARRCCOONNSSUULLTT principals designed, built, own
and operate the McRoberts Creek Hydro, located
near Palmer, Alaska. The 100-kW run-of-river
project has delivered power to the Matanuska
Electric Association grid since 1991.
The McRoberts Project is an excellent example
of renewable energy systems benefiting Alaskan
communities. The project has improved
recreational access to the Matanuska Peak area,
operates in harmony with the environment, and
provides renewable energy to local homes and
businesses.
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PPOOLLAARRCCOONNSSUULLTT completed a conceptual design for
the Alaska Energy Authority to evaluate a run-of-
river hydroplant on O’Brien Creek to serve the
communit y of Chitina, Alaska on the Copper River.
Key activities included:
Ø Paper study to define project parameters,
Ø Handling and analysis of large LIDAR data set
to finalize a conceptual design,
Ø Field reconnaissance to evaluate intake
locations and penstock corridors, and
Ø Preliminary project cost estimate.
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PPOOLLAARRCCOONNSSUULLTT designed and permitted a 280-kW run-of -river
hydro plant to offset costly diesel-electric power for the village of
Atka in the Aleutian Islands. Key project features include:
Ø A small concrete dam,
Ø 1,000-foot HDPE penstock, and
Ø Cross-flow turbine.
The project, to be completed in 2010, is expected to significantly
reduce power rates in the village.
polarconsult alaska, inc.
energy systems – environmental services – engineering design
1503 West 33rd Avenue, Suite 310 tel: 907.258.2420
Anchorage, Alaska 99503 fax: 907.258.2419
Internet Website: http://www.polarconsult.net
REPRESENTATIVE HYDROELECTRIC PROJECTS
polarconsult alaska, inc.
OOLLAARRCCOONNSSUULLTT AALLAASSKKAA,, IINNCC.., has extensive experience designing, permitting, constructing and
operating hydroelectric plants in Alaska. Our design professionals have been involved in hydro
in Alaska since 1966, and collectively have over 95 years of exper ience in the field.
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Project Design
Capacity
Type of
Project Location Services Rendered
Mc Roberts
Creek 100 kW Run of River Palmer, AK Design, Permitting, Construction, Operation,
Owner.
Roy's Creek /
Crooked Creek 80 kW Run of River Elfin Cove, AK Reconnaissance and Feasibility Study,
Preliminary Design, FERC Permitting.
Knutson Creek 125 kW Run of River Pedro Bay, AK Reconnaissance Study.
Fourth of July
Creek 5,400 kW Run of River Seward, AK Reconnaissance and Feasibility Study, Owner.
Fishhook Creek 2,000 kW Run of River Hatcher Pass, AK Reconnaissance and Feasibility Study,
Permitting, Design, Construction, Owner.
Indian River 125 kW Run of River Tenakee Springs, AK Feasibility Study, Preliminary Design,
Permitting.
Glacier Fork 80,000 kW Storage Knik, AK Reconnaissance and feasibility study.
Indian Creek 60 kW Storage Chignik, AK Permitting, FERC Relicense.
Larsen Bay 475 kW Run of River Larsen Bay, AK Design, Permitting.
Old Harbor 500 kW Run of River Old Harbor, AK Feasibility Study, Design, FERC Permitting.
O’Brien Creek /
5 Mile Creek 400 kW Run of River Chitna, AK Feasibility Study, Preliminary Design.
Lace River 4,950 kW Storage Near of
Juneau, AK Preliminary Design, FERC Permitting.
Chuniisax
Creek 280 kW Storage Atka, AK Feasibility Study, Preliminary Design,
Permitting.
Angoon 600 kW Storage Angoon, AK Feasibility Study, Preliminary Design.
IINNDDIIAANN CCRREEEEKK HHYYDDRROO FFEERRCC LLIICCEENNSSIINNGG
PPOOLLAARRCCOONNSSUULLTT managed the FERC licensing process for
the owner of Indian Creek Hydro, a 60-kW installation
located in Chignik, Alaska. The multi-year FERC
licensing process required significant effort and
coordination relating to the development of the
Environmental Assessment. Key activities included:
Ø NEPA scoping meetings,
Ø Stream gauging and fish surveys,
Ø Geomorphological surveys of Indian Creek, and
Ø Preparation of License Application and EA.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010
ATTACHMENT B – COST WORKSHEET
Renewable Energy Fund Round 4
Project Cost/Benefit Worksheet
RFA AEA11-005 Application Cost Worksheet Page 1 7-21-10
Please note that some fields might not be applicable for all technologies or all project
phases. The level of information detail varies according to phase requirements.
1. Renewable Energy Source
The Applicant should demonstrate that the renewable energy resource is available on a
sustainable basis.
Annual average resource availability. 58% capacity factor (estimate)
Unit depends on project type (e.g. windspeed, hydropower output, biomasss fuel)
2. 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
iii. Generator/boilers/other type
iv. Age of generators/boilers/other
v. Efficiency of generators/boilers/other
b) Annual O&M cost (if system is part of the Railbelt grid, leave this section blank)
i. Annual O&M cost for labor
ii. Annual O&M cost for non-labor
c) Annual electricity production and fuel usage (fill in as applicable) (if system is part of the
Railbelt grid, leave this section blank)
i. Electricity [kWh]
ii. Fuel usage
Diesel [gal]
Other
iii. Peak Load
iv. Average Load
v. Minimum Load
vi. Efficiency
vii. Future trends
d) Annual heating fuel usage (fill in as applicable)
i. Diesel [gal or MMBtu]
ii. Electricity [kWh]
iii. Propane [gal or MMBtu]
iv. Coal [tons or MMBtu]
v. Wood [cords, green tons, dry tons]
vi. Other
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 4
Project Cost/Benefit Worksheet
RFA AEA11-005 Application Cost Worksheet Page 2 7-21-10
3. 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]
6,500 kW installed capacity – run-of-river hydro
58% capacity factor
b) Proposed annual electricity or heat production (fill in as applicable)
i. Electricity [kWh] 34,100,000 kWh/yr
ii. Heat [MMBtu]
c) Proposed annual fuel usage (fill in as applicable)
i. Propane [gal or MMBtu]
ii. Coal [tons or MMBtu]
iii. Wood [cords, green tons, dry tons]
iv. Other
4. Project Cost
a) Total capital cost of new system $24,000,000 (est.)
b) Development cost $1,000,000 (est.)
c) Annual O&M cost of new system $555,000 (est.)
d) Annual fuel cost zero
5. Project Benefits
a) Amount of fuel displaced for
i. Electricity 34,100,000 kWh/yr
ii. Heat
iii. Transportation
b) Current price of displaced fuel Per AEA 2010 model for southern railbelt.
c) Other economic benefits Included in future fuel cost projections.
d) Alaska public benefits $44,427,425
6. Power Purchase/Sales Price
a) Price for power purchase/sale AEA 2010 model for southern railbelt. ($0.065/kWh in 2014)
7. Project Analysis
a) Basic Economic Analysis
Project benefit/cost ratio With 50 year life, $44,427,425 / $23,798,766 = 2.00
Payback (years) $25 M / $1.75M = 14.3 years
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010
ATTACHMENT C – GRANT BUDGET FORM
Renewable Energy Fund Grant Round IVGrant Budget Form9/3/2010 Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project - Reconnaissance Knik, AlaskaRE- Fund Grantee MatchingSource of Matching Funds: Grant Funds FundsCash/In-kind/Federal Grants/Other State Grants/OtherProject Administration and Management (Contracting) 9/1/2012 $0 $4,000 Cash and In-Kind Services $4,000Resource Identification and Analysis 8/1/2012 $52,500 $7,500 Cash and In-Kind Services $60,000Land Use, Permitting, and Environmental Analysis 7/1/2012 $4,375 $625 Cash and In-Kind Services $5,000Preliminary Design and Cost Analysis 8/1/2012 $8,750 $1,250 Cash and In-Kind Services $10,000Reconnanssance-level economic analysis 8/1/2012 $4,375 $625Cash and In-Kind Services $5,000Final Report and Recommendations 9/1/2012 $14,000 $2,000 Cash and In-Kind Services $16,000TOTALS$84,000$16,000$100,000Direct Labor & Benefits$0 $4,000 In-Kind Services $4,000Travel & Per Diem$0 $0$0Equipment$0 $0$0Materials & Supplies$0 $0$0Contractual Services$84,000 $12,000 Cash $96,000Construction Services$0 $0$0Other$0 $0$0 TOTALS$84,000$16,000$100,000TASK TOTALSBudget Categories:Milestone or TaskAnticipated Completion Date
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010
ATTACHMENT D – LOCAL SUPPORT
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010
ATTACHMENT E – ELECTRONIC COPY OF APPLICATION
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010
ATTACHMENT F – AUTHORIZED SIGNERS FORM
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010
ATTACHMENT G – GOVERNING BODY RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11-005 Grant Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010
ATTACHMENT I – MAPS AND SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application Round IV
Hunter Creek Hydroelectric Project – Reconnaissance
AEA11 -005 Grant Application ATTACHMENTS 9/9/2010