HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity of Kotzebue Biomass REF Application
Renewable Energy Fund Round 3
Grant Application
AEA 10-015 Application Page 1 of 20 10/7/2009
Application Forms and Instructions
The following forms and instructions are provided to assist you in preparing your application for
a Renewable Energy Fund Grant. An electronic version of the Request for Applications (RFA)
and the forms are available online at: http://www.akenergyauthority.org/RE_Fund-III.html
Grant Application
Form
GrantApp3.doc Application form in MS Word that includes an outline of
information required to submit a complete application.
Applicants should use the form to assure all information is
provided and attach additional information as required.
Application Cost
Worksheet
Costworksheet3
.doc
Summary of Cost information that should be addressed by
applicants in preparing their application.
Grant Budget
Form
GrantBudget3.d
oc
A detailed grant budget that includes a breakdown of costs by
milestone and a summary of funds available and requested to
complete the work for which funds are being requested.
Grant Budget
Form Instructions
GrantBudgetInst
ructions3.pdf
Instructions for completing the above grant budget form.
If you are applying for grants for more than one project, provide separate application
forms for each project.
Multiple phases for the same project may be submitted as one application.
If you are applying for grant funding for more than one phase of a project, provide
milestones and grant budget for 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.
If you have additional information or reports you would like the Authority to consider in
reviewing your application, either provide an electronic version of the document with
your submission or reference a web link where it can be downloaded or reviewed.
REMINDER:
Alaska Energy Authority is subject to the Public Records Act AS 40.25, and materials
submitted to the Authority may be subject to disclosure requirements under the act if no
statutory exemptions apply.
All applications received will be posted on the Authority web site after final
recommendations are made to the legislature.
In accordance with 3 AAC 107.630 (b) Applicants may request trade secrets or
proprietary company data be kept confidential subject to review and approval by the
Authority. If you want information is to be kept confidential the applicant must:
o Request the information be kept confidential.
o Clearly identify the information that is the trade secret or proprietary in their
application.
o Receive concurrence from the Authority that the information will be kept
confidential. If the Authority determines it is not confidential it will be treated as a
public record in accordance with AS 40.25 or returned to the applicant upon
request.
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Grant Application Round 3
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SECTION 1 – APPLICANT INFORMATION
Name (Name of utility, IPP, or government entity submitting proposal)
City of Kotzebue-Maniilaq Services, LLC
Type of Entity:
Local government municipality providing a full range of municipal services including solid waste and
public works. The City of Kotzebue is partnered with Maniilaq Services, LLC for the Kotzebue Biomass
Project. Maniilaq Services is a subsidiary of Maniilaq Association, a non-profit corporation headquartered
in Kotzebue recognized under section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1972 as amended. The
City of Kotzebue will oversee the project and Maniilaq Services will serve as project manager for the City.
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 46
Kotzebue, AK 99752
Physical Address
City Hall,
258A, 3rd Avenue
Kotzebue, AK 99752
Telephone
(907) 442-
3401
Fax
(907) 442-3742
Email
rwalker@kotzebue.org
1.1 APPLICANT POINT OF CONTACT
Name
Michael J. Scott
Title
President and CEO
Mailing Address
1700 Seventh Avenue Building
1700 Seventh Avenue, Suite 2100
Seattle, WA 98101
Telephone
(206) 715-
7804
Fax
(206) 357-8401
Email
michael_scott@comcast.net
1.2 APPLICANT MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Please check as appropriate. If you do not to meet the minimum applicant requirements, your
application will be rejected.
1.2.1 As an Applicant, we are: (put an X in the appropriate box)
An electric utility holding a certificate of public convenience and necessity under AS
42.05, or
An independent power producer in accordance with 3 AAC 107.695 (a) (1), or
X A local government, or
A governmental entity (which includes tribal councils and housing authorities);
YES 1.2.2. Attached to this application is formal approval and endorsement for 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.
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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)
City of Kotzebue Biomass Tactical Garbage to Energy Refinery (TGER) 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.
City of Kotzebue, Alaska
2.3 PROJECT TYPE
Put X in boxes as appropriate
2.3.1 Renewable Resource Type
Wind X Biomass or Biofuels
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 X Design and Permitting
X Feasibility X Construction and Commissioning
X Conceptual Design
2.4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Provide a brief one paragraph description of your proposed project.
TGER is a “Hybrid System” incorporating two complementary technologies:
Bioreactor to convert carbohydrates, sugars, some cellulosic waste into vaporous ethanol
Thermo chemical gasifier to convert bioreactor residuals into “fuel gas”
Fuel gas and vaporous ethanol are fumigated into the diesel engine as a substitute for
diesel fuel
System of energy & materials exchange between subsystems for o/a system efficiency
System outputs are benign ash and CO2*
* With exception of Petroleum-based plastics conversion, system is “carbon-neutral”
How it Works:
Mixed waste is loaded into a chute where wet food waste is separated for fermentation
Solid waste is ground up and converted into fuel pellets for delivery to a downdraft gasifier
Hydrous ethanol from fermentation and syngas from thermal decomposition are blended
and aspirated into a 60kW generator to produce electricity
Products:
Electricity – can be used immediately, diverted to a power micro-grid, or used to charge
batteries
Ash – environmentally benign
Engine exhaust – EPA certified
Grey water – environmentally benign (filtered and boiled)
Excess thermal energy-250,000 BTUs captured for heat, hot water, field sanitation, etc.
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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.)
Environmental Benefits: Improve public safety, protect public health, reduce water pollution
from leachate, reduce windblown debris, and reduce ground and visual pollution. Landfills or
bale fills can cause health and safety problems, pollute drinking water and harm wildlife.
Financial Benefits: Fuel displaced for electricity: 55,376 gallons; price of displaced fuel:
$310,659.36; other financial benefits: $187,200 (reduced land fill costs).
Technical Assistance Benefits: The City of Kotzebue will learn how to operate and maintain the
TGER System to generate energy and reduce landfill solid waste (approximately 80%).
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 total project cost is $1.6 million dollars. Maniilaq Services, on behalf of the City of
Kotzebue, AK has requested grant funding from the National Energy Technology Laboratory
(US Government). The decision is pending.
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. $1.6 Million
2.7.2 Other Funds to be provided (Project match) $0.00
2.7.3 Total Grant Costs (sum of 2.7.1 and 2.7.2) $1.6 Million
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)
$1.6 Million
2.7.5 Estimated Direct Financial Benefit (Savings) $497,859.36 Annually
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.)
$
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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 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.
Michael Scott of Maniilaq Services, LLC, a seasoned project manager, will oversee and manage
the TGER Project including our primary subcontractor, Defense Life Sciences, LLC ( DLSci).
Mr. Scott is a former general manager of Anchorage Municipal Light and Power as well as a
former city manager for the City of Kotzebue. Mr. Scott’s resume and key DLSci and Maniilaq
Services personnel are included as Attachment 1. The project manager will report to the
City Manager.
There will be weekly teleconference meetings among all team members. The project manager
will prepare monthly report for all team members and agencies. There will be a project
newsletter prepared quarterly.
Project accounting, procurement policies and grant reporting will be prepared in advance of
project start-up. Review of AEA project grant report will be initiated prior to project start-up.
Quality control will be provided by an independent third party reporting directly to the city
manager.
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 client will have the opportunity to review the results of each step and decide whether or not
to continue on with the next step in the program. Based on a 12 month program, a more detailed
breakout of the 4 major steps is provided below. Total cost for the 1 year program is
approximately $1.6M leading to minimal sustained annual costs.
Step 1 (Sept, 2011– Oct, 2011): Defense Life Sciences, LLC ( DLSci), under the Project
Management of Maniilaq Services, LLC, will execute a site survey in order to conduct an
analysis of the waste stream and utility requirements and costs. DLSci will run the data collected
from the site survey through three models in order to determine the scale, cost and feasibility.
The three simulation models that will be used are a material and energy balance model, life cycle
cost model and a carbon footprint model.
Time = 2 months
Cost = $80k
Step 2 (Nov, 2011 thru January, 2012): DLSci designs an appropriately scaled system based on
the models and updates all models based on the final design of the TGER system.
Time = 3 months
Cost = $240k
Step 3 (Feb 15, 2012 thru June 15, 2012): DLSci fabricates, tests, certifies and ships the TGER
system designed for the customer’s facility.
Time = 4 months
Cost = $1.05M
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Step 4 (July, 2012 thru Sept, 2012): DLSci installs and operates the TGER system for 3 months
in order to demonstrate the day-to-day cost savings from reduced disposal and utilities costs and
train municipal personnel. Turns system over to City of Kotzebue to maintain and operate.
Time = 3 months
Cost = $230k
Total Time: 12 months
Total Cost: $1.6M
Please see Attachment 2 for a detailed Schedule.
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.)
Please see our response to 3.2 above, our Budget Worksheet, our Budget Form and Attachment 2
for a detailed Project Milestone Schedule and project cash flow.
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.
The project resources for this project will be provided through Maniilaq Association Planning
and its affiliate Maniilaq Services. Maniilaq Services, LLC, as the Project Manager, will oversee
and manage Defense Life Sciences (DLSci), LLC, the lead company that partnered with Purdue
University to design and operationally test and validate the hybrid biorefinery concept following
a DoD study on biotechnology. We propose to install, commission, and operate the Tactical
Garbage to Energy Refinery (TGER) System for the City of Kotzebue, Alaska. The system will
not only dramatically reduce energy cost, but also practically eliminate the transportation costs
and fees associated with waste dump charges..
Maniilaq Association and its affiliate Maniilaq Services will provide the personnel, office,
facilities, project and technical support to the City of Kotzebue for the design, planning,
installation, commissioning, and operation of the Tactical Garbage to Energy Refinery (TGER)
System.
Maniilaq Association has provided technical assistance to communities in Northwest Alaska for
over 35 years. Maniilaq has had a solid waste coordinator working within the region to forge
strategies with communities to engage in reducing, recycling and reusing materials away from
the landfills.
Defense Life Sciences, (DLSci) is dedicated to the development of commercial Life Sciences
and other advanced technologies for National and Civil Defense. They bring commercial
products to the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, the Intelligence
Community and other Federal Agencies.
DLSci conducts R&D and product development in the growing field of bio-energy; commercial
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representation and sales for emerging products, strategic studies and consulting services. DLSci's
staff is a unique team of experts in the fields of scientific, military and acquisition backgrounds.
DLSci's mission is to bring into being a market where the Life Sciences will expand beyond the
current medical and bio-defense areas into broader applications of energy, engineering, materials
science, logistics and other main stream commercial applications.
Our projects receive expert ethical, legal and federal policy review to ensure the needs of the
government and public are met in a responsible manner.
DLSci has the following direct experience with the TGER System:
Defense Life Sciences, LLC partnered with Purdue University to develop the hybrid
biorefinery concept following a DoD study on biotechnology;
Aug 04 – RDECOM/ECBC awarded a Phase I STTR contract to Defense Life Sciences,
LLC to study the feasibility of the TGER concept ($100K);
Sep 05 – ECBC awarded a Phase II contract to build the first prototype system ($850K)
Jul 07 – Rapid Equipping Force awarded contract to build second prototype and upgrade
the original prototype ($2.3M);
Mar 08 – Second prototype complete;
May 08 – 2 TGER prototypes sent to Camp Victory, Iraq for a 90-day field test;
Sep 08 – ATEC Third Party Assessment complete; and
Sep 08 – RDECOM FAST completes in-theater analysis/observation.
Michael Scott of Maniilaq Services, LLC, a seasoned project manager, will oversee and manage
the TGER Project including our primary subcontractor, Defense Life Sciences, LLC ( DLSci).
Michael's resume, DLSci' key personnel resumes, and a letter of reference from the City of
Kotzebue are included as Attachment 1 and Attachment 3.
3.5 Project Communications
Discuss how you plan to monitor the project and keep the Authority informed of the status.
Maniilaq Services brings a partnering culture to work seamlessly with AEA Officials and the
City of Kotzebue to establish and maintain effective communications at all levels. As a strategic
partner with AEA, Maniilaq Services will put in place a formal communications plan, which lays
the foundation for a long-term relationship with our partners. The Maniilaq Services' plan
ensures our management team communicates frequently and effectively with each constituent
within the AEA and City of Kotzebue.
Approach to Maintaining Effective Communications. The following elements of our
communications plan are discussed below:
Principal Interfaces, Communication Points and Conflict Resolution;
Electronic Status Reporting;
Regularly Scheduled Meetings; and
Open Informal Communications.
Principal Interfaces, Communication Points and Conflict Resolution. Coordination with the
AEA and City at every practical level is an integral part of Maniilaq’s communications plan.
This approach offers rapid, appropriate response to our AEC and City customers and encourages
regular and open communications to enhance operational harmony. Maniilaq establishes and
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confirms a meeting within four hours of receipt of a query regarding status of work and
complaints. The objective is to identify differences or potential problems before they become
conflicts and to seek resolutions in accordance with the following principles:
A commitment on both sides to find a mutually acceptable solution;
Absolute honesty in accepting the reality of the situation without making excuses; and
Acceptance and implementation of the agreed upon solution.
The graphic below shows the interfaces and communication points between Maniilaq and
Managers and Alpha Company.
Communication Points
Maniilaq and DLSci Management AEA and City Management
Project Manager City Manager, AEA Grant and Project Managers,
Department Managers, City Safety Manager
Managers and Safety Specialist Department Managers and City Safety Manager
Supervisors Key Supervisors and End User Customers
Electronic Reporting System. Maniilaq Services uses an electronic status reporting system that
provides the AEA and City management with a weekly report that highlights key performance
metrics. Linc uses a number of systems to track performance and manage work, including our
computerized management system, our financial accounting system, and project management
system. All these systems play a significant role in various elements of contract administration,
customer communications, project operations and financial performance measurements, and
reporting.
Regularly Scheduled Meetings. Maniilaq Services schedules and hosts quarterly executive
performance review meetings between the AEC Managers, City Managers, and the Maniilaq
Project Manager and DLSci on-site Manager. At these meetings, Maniilaq Services provides an
overview of program activities for the previous quarter with its strengths and weaknesses and
corrective actions taken or planned, the major initiatives planned for the coming quarter, and
reach agreement on the coming quarter’s priorities and common goals for Maniilaq and the AEC.
Maniilaq Services schedules and hosts monthly Performance Assessment meetings between the
Maniilaq Project Manager and City Department Managers.
Open Informal Communications. Maniilaq Services promotes cordial, open communications
with our valued customers at all levels. All of our employees complete initial and recurring
annual customer satisfaction training and customer communications is a key element of this
training.
3.6 Project Risk
Discuss potential problems and how you would address them.
We conduct risk assessments for each process for the installation and operation of the TGER
system. This approach emphasize establishing multiple risk mitigation scenarios for each
potential risk For example, risk mitigation strategies may include multiple strategies such as
detailed planning, training, back-up processes, and even strategic application of technology.
The following chart provides an overview of our preliminary risk assessment and risk abatement
plan.
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TGER Project Risk Assessment and Risk Abatement
Risk
Element Description Probability of
Failure
Consequence of
Failure Risk Abatement Plan
High
Winds
Northwest Alaska is prone to high
winds that would make installation of
the TGER System hazardous.
High Low
Installation of the TGER
system will be curtailed
during high wind situations.
This will mitigate the risk.
TGER System
Configuration Control
Maintain system design integrity and safety and environmental protection
envelopes by ensuring parts, materials,
and line replacement units are equal to and installed according to approved
specifications and design criteria.
Medium High
Require specifications
development support and
the signoff by the Project Manager on all replacement
materials and parts to
ensure exact form, fit, and function.
TGER Project Risk Assessment and Risk Abatement
Risk
Element Description Probability of
Failure
Consequence of
Failure Risk Abatement Plan
Safety Equipment/PPE Provision of Safety Equipment and
Respiratory protection Services Low High
The PM will be responsible
to acquire all required safety
equipment. The PM will
ensure supervisors require
personnel certifications to
be current prior to assigning
any craft person to duty
where PPE is a prerequisite
for safety. Line supervisors
will physically inspect PPE
on a monthly basis and
return and defective or
suspect respiratory PPE to
the PM for maintenance and
repair or replacement.
Life
Safety
Systems
Caution and Safety Envelopes Medium High
Extreme caution and safety
will be observed when dealing with vital safety
systems and work in
extremely hazardous areas (i.e., compressed gas
systems, underground,
enclosed spaces, tanks, etc.). The PM will sign off on
work plans for these areas,
and establish hold points for safety walkthroughs, pre-
work start verification of
personnel certifications, and knowledge of emergency /
contingency plans.
Snow
and
Ice Removal
Removal to protect Maniilaq and DLSci
Employees Low Medium
The Maniilaq PM will use a proactive approach to snow
and ice removal tasks at the
TGER site during installation and operation to
begin assembling – staffing-
equipment-materials prior to the onset of snow and ice
storms. Work will
commence in non-core hours to all extent
practicable so that snow
and ice hazards are mitigated. All personnel will
be trained to know hazards
involved with loss of metal
elasticity during near- and
below-freezing conditions, a
higher risk for pressurized
systems than those non
pressurized.
Drawings
and
Utility
Maps
Area Surveys Low High
The Maniilaq PM will require
area surveys during the
planning of TGER system
installation work. Surveys
will validate above- and
below ground drawing and
utility maps, including
Underground Utility Maps
(UUMs). Detectors and
probes will be used to
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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.
The TGER System is "waste to energy" system. Waste-to-energy facilities produce clean,
renewable energy through the combustion of municipal solid waste in specially designed power
plants equipped with the most modern pollution control equipment to clean emissions. Trash
volume is reduced by 80% and the remaining residue is regularly tested and consistently meets
strict EPA standards allowing reuse or disposal in landfills. There are 89 waste-to-energy plants
operating in 27 states managing about 13 percent of America's trash, or about 95,000 tons each day.
Waste-to-energy facilities generate about 2,500 megawatts of electricity to meet the power needs of
nearly 2.3 million homes, and the facilities serve the trash disposal needs of more than 36 million
people. The $10 billion waste-to-energy industry employs more than 6,000 American workers with
annual wages in excess of $400 million.
The use of waste-to-energy technology prevents the release of forty million metric tons of
greenhouse gases in the form of carbon dioxide equivalents that otherwise would be released into
the atmosphere on an annual basis, according to an analysis developed by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency and the Integrated Waste Services Association (IWSA) using EPA's Decision
Support Tool program. Annual reporting by IWSA to the U.S. Department of Energy's Voluntary
Reporting of Greenhouse Gases Program confirms that waste-to-energy also prevents the release
each year of nearly 24,000 tons of nitrogen oxides and 2.6 million tons of volatile organic
compounds from entering the atmosphere.
America's waste-to-energy facilities dispose of trash, and are an alternative to land disposal that
releases methane (a potent greenhouse gas) as trash decomposes. Waste-to-energy also produces
validate location of
underground structures and
utilities. Discrepancies will be redlined and provided to
the City of Kotzebue.
High
Voltage Personnel Safety High High
Only journeyman high voltage electricians will be
permitted to connect,
disconnect, maintain, inspect, or support
predictive maintenance and
inspection on HV systems. Two man rules will be
required and enforced.
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electricity, lessening reliance on fossil fuel power plants that release carbon dioxide, another
greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere when coal or oil is burned. Operation of waste-to-energy
plants avoid the release of methane that otherwise would be emitted when trash decomposes, and
the release of CO2 that would be emitted from generating electricity from fossil fuels.
System Description: TGER is a “Hybrid System” incorporating two complementary technologies:
Bioreactor to convert carbohydrates,
sugars, some cellulosic waste into
vaporous ethanol
Thermo chemical gasifier to convert
bioreactor residuals into “fuel gas”
• Fuel gas and vaporous ethanol are
fumigated into the diesel engine as
a substitute for diesel fuel
• System of energy & materials
exchange between subsystems for
o/a system efficiency
• System outputs are benign ash and
CO2*
* With exception of Petroleum-based plastics conversion, system
is “carbon-neutral”
How it Works:
Mixed waste is loaded into a chute
where wet food waste is separated
for fermentation
Solid waste is ground up and
converted into fuel pellets for
delivery to a downdraft gasifier
Hydrous ethanol from fermentation and syngas from
thermal decomposition are blended and aspirated into a
60kW generator to produce electricity
Products:
Electricity – can be used immediately, diverted to a
power micro-grid, or used to charge batteries
Ash – environmentally benign
Engine exhaust – EPA certified
Grey water – environmentally benign (filtered and boiled)
Excess thermal energy – 250,000 BTUs can be captured for heat, hot water, field sanitation,
etc.
TGER Performance Data:
Theoretical/Optimal TGER Performance Data
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Power
Output
Power
Efficiency
Diesel
Consumption
Rate
Ethanol
Consumption
Rate
Ethanol
Production
Rate
Solid Waste
Processing
Rate
(Pellet
Production)
Liquid
Waste
Processing
Rate
Total
Waste
Processing
Rate
Diesel
Savings
54 kW 90% 1 gph 1 gph 1 gph 60 lbs/hr 13 lbs/hr 1,752
lbs/day 3.6 gph
System Qualities:
Compact – fits standard shipping containers, trailerable
Fast - converting 2,500 lbs waste to energy w/i 24 hrs
Efficient
• Unique hybrid design (Bio & Thermo) > efficiency
• Parasitic costs to run the system are less than 10%
Flexible – tolerates variable waste streams well
Cost effective (Energy and Materials Balance Model)
• Not an expensive garbage disposal
• Focused on energy dense waste
• Paper, Plastic, Packaging & Food waste
• No glass, metal, human, hazardous waste
• Very productive balance of waste disposal and energy production
The TGER System is an alternative supplement energy system that will complement and expand
the existing City energy resources.
.
4.2 Existing Energy System
4.2.1 Basic configuration of Existing Energy System
Briefly discuss the basic configuration of the existing energ y system. Include information about the
number, size, age, efficiency, and type of generation.
Current City of Kotzebue Utilities: Water is supplied by the 150-million-gallon Vortac
Reservoir, located one and a half miles from the city. Water is treated and stored in a 1.5-million-
gallon tank. Water is heated with a waste heat recovery system at the electric plant and distributed
in circulating mains. Piped sewage is treated in a 32-acre zero discharge facultative lagoon west of
the airport. Around 80% of homes are fully plumbed, and 521 homes are served by the city system.
A transfer station and Class 2 permitted landfill with bale fill is available. Recycling and hazardous
waste disposal are provided. Kotzebue uses 17 50 kilowatt wind turbines to supplement electricity.
Electricity is provided by Kotzebue Electric Association.
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Kotzebue Electric Association: Kotzebue Electric Association (KEA) is a non-profit cooperative
that provides power for Kotzebue, Alaska. The city of Kotzebue is located 67 deg. North latitude,
162 deg. West longitude at the tip of the Baldwin Peninsula on Kotzebue Sound in North-western
Alaska. Climatic conditions at Kotzebue are characterized by long cold winters and cool summers.
Kotzebue is a community of over 3000 people and is the service hub for 11 communities in
Northwest Alaska. KEA has a peak electrical load of approximately 4 megawatts.
Kotzebue Electric Association (KEA) is a pioneer in the use of wind energy in the United States.
KEA's 17 utility-grade wind turbines generate seven (7) percent of Kotzebue's electricity, which
translates to a savings of 100,000 gallons of diesel per year. Cost savings in 2008 are expected to be
well above $300,000.
KEA provides waste heat to the city to heat its water systems which allows the City of Kotzebue to
reduce its costs of heating the system by 30 percent.
A Proven System: DLSci has the following direct experience with the TGER System:
Defense Life Sciences, LLC partnered with Purdue University to develop the hybrid
biorefinery concept following a DoD study on biotechnology;
Aug 04 – RDECOM/ECBC awarded a Phase I STTR contract to Defense Life Sciences,
LLC to study the feasibility of the TGER concept ($100K);
Sep 05 – ECBC awarded a Phase II contract to build the first prototype system ($850K)
Jul 07 – Rapid Equipping Force awarded contract to build second prototype and upgrade the
original prototype ($2.3M);
Mar 08 – Second prototype complete;
May 08 – 2 TGER prototypes sent to Camp Victory, Iraq for a 90-day field test;
Sep 08 – ATEC Third Party Assessment complete; and
Sep 08 – RDECOM FAST completes in-theater analysis/observation.
As shown above, the TGER is a fully developed and proven system available now for deployment.
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.
Please see our response to 4.2.2 above. The current cost of electricity for the City is $0.245 per
kwh w/Power Cost Equalization and $5.61 per gallon for diesel fuel.
Our initial approach for the TGER System is saving on the consumption of electricity and heating
fuel to power and heat the Kotzebue government buildings while diverting over 80% of the waste
stream from the landfill to create fuel to spin a generator for electric and heat purposes. Future
opportunities for use of the system include the eleven (11) communities surrounding the City of
Kotzebue and other small communities throughout rural Alaska.
4.2.3 Existing Energy Market
Discuss existing energy use and its market. Discuss impacts your project may have on energy
customers.
The energy savings for the City can be used for other needed projects and ongoing operations. The
system will sell excess generated power at KEA’s avoided cost to reduce the cost of energy to
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residential customers. Additionally, as outlined above, use of the system will have a significant
positive impact on the environment and the health of the citizens of Kotzebue.
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
Please see our response to Section 4.1 above for the design and description, optimum capacity,
and delivery methods of the TGER System. We do not anticipate any barriers to the installation
and operation of the system. Please see our Kotzebue Project Analysis (attached) for detailed
information on our assumptions, electricity and heat production, annual fuel usage, project cost,
project benefits, power purchase sales price, and a basic economic analysis.
4.3.2 Land Ownership
Identify potential land ownership issues, including whether site owners have agreed to the
project or how you intend to approach land ownership and access issues.
The City of Kotzebue fully supports the installation and operation of the TGER System on City
land. The TGER will be housed immediately adjacent to the City’s existing baler building within
the municipal public works compound. The baler building received the solid waster daily and
serves as the source separation point to provide the feedstock to the new TGER system.
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
Maniilaq Services will work with the City of Kotzebue Administrative and Public Works
Departments to identify and obtain permits required by the City of Kotzebue and State of Alaska.
We will obtain all required permits within 30 days of Grant award. We do not anticipate any
barriers.
4.3.4 Environmental
Address whether the following environmental and land use issues apply, and if so how they will
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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
TGER System impact on the environment is all positive. There are no negative impacts or
barriers in the operation of the system. All of these issues were dealt with in the siting of the baler
building. The TGER is compliant with the current environmental regulations for the facility..
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
Please see our attached Grant Budget form.
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.)
We project the TGER O&M costs to be minimal - estimated annual operation, preventive and
repair maintenance cost - $120,000.00 annually.
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
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Initially the TGER System will directly offset current supplier cost of electricity and fuel.
Potentially, the City can sell electricity to KEA at a purchase / sales price of $0.30 per kWh.
Estimated rate of return from this grant-funded project is 2.24 years. Please see our Kotzebue
Project Analysis (attached) for detailed information on our assumptions, electricity and heat
production, annual fuel usage, project cost, project benefits, power purchase sales price, and a
basic economic analysis.
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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.
Sources for our numbers are from the City of Kotzebue and DLSci, LLC. Project Cost
Worksheet and our Kotzebue Project Worksheet are attached.
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
Please see our Kotzebue Project Analysis (attached) for detailed information on our assumptions,
electricity and heat production, annual fuel usage, project cost, project benefits, power purchase
sales price, and a basic economic analysis. Non-economic benefits include improved public
safety, protection of public health, reduction of water pollution from leachate, reduction of
windblown debris, and reduction of ground and visual pollution. Landfills or bale fills can cause
health and safety problems, pollute drinking water and harm wildlife.
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
The City of Kotzebue will finance the maintenance and operations for the life of the project. As
stated above, we anticipate these costs to be minimal ($120,000 per year). The City of Kotzebue
Department of Public Works personnel will be trained on the operations and maintenance of the
TGER System during the installation, commissioning, and operation of the system during the last
three months of the project.
Mike Scott of Maniilaq Services and the City will be responsible for all project evaluation which
will include a formative and summative evaluation by reports made to AEA and the Maniilaq
Board of Directors and the Maniilaq Association President/CEO. We will use the evaluation tools
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below.
Identify the current and projected pounds of waste generated by the City of Kotzebue
(daily; weekly; and monthly);
Assess the City of Kotzebue typical weather conditions impact on the TGER system;
Work with the City of Kotzebue to tentatively identify and document the TGER system
physical location and the logistics of setting-up the waste stream;
Establish a plan to transport, install, configure, start-up, commission, and operate the
TGER system;
Estimate the amount of waste to energy the system will produce on a daily basis and design
a process to document and track this information [power output; power efficiency; diesel
consumption rate; ethanol consumption rate; ethanol production rate; solid waste
processing rate (pellet production); liquid waste processing rate; total waste processing
rate; and diesel savings].
Estimate the impact on reducing landfill waste and the associated cost reduction;
Estimate the overall savings generated for the City; and
Design a measuring system to measure the positive impact on the environment.
SECTION 7 – READINESS & COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER GRANTS
Discuss what you have done to prepare for this award and how quickly you intend t o 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.
As outlined earlier, the TGER System is a proven prototype. The City of Kotzebue, Maniilaq
Services and DLSci, LLC understand the milestones in detail on the TGER Project and all parties
have identified the TGER as a priority project. We will immediately proceed with the work upon
AEA approval of the grant.
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.
We have attached letters of support (Attachment 3) for the City of Kotzebue TGER System project
from the City of Kotzebue, Northwest Arctic Borough School District, Maniilaq Association,
Chukchi College and a Letter of Commitment from Defense Life Sciences, LLC. There has been
no opposition to the project.
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
Provide a narrative summary regarding funding sources and your financial commitment to the
project.
The following investments have be made on the TGER System:
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Defense Life Sciences, LLC partnered with Purdue University to develop the hybrid
biorefinery concept following a DoD study on biotechnology;
Aug 04 – RDECOM/ECBC awarded a Phase I STTR contract to Defense Life Sciences,
LLC to study the feasibility of the TGER concept ($100K);
Sep 05 – ECBC awarded a Phase II contract to build the first prototype system ($850K)
Jul 07 – Rapid Equipping Force awarded contract to build second prototype and upgrade the
original prototype ($2.3M);
Mar 08 – Second prototype complete;
May 08 – 2 TGER prototypes sent to Camp Victory, Iraq for a 90-day field test;
Sep 08 – ATEC Third Party Assessment complete; and
Sep 08 – RDECOM FAST completes in-theater analysis/observation.
Maniilaq Services, LLC on behalf of the City of Kotzebue, AK has requested grant funding from
the National Energy Technology Laboratory (US Government). The decision is pending.
We are applying for an AEA Round 3 Grant in the amount of $1.6 million. Our completed
GrantBudget3.doc is attached.
SECTION 9 – ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION AND CERTIFICATION
SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS WITH YOUR APPLICATION:
A. Resumes of Applicant’s Project Manager, key staff, partners, consultants, and
suppliers per application form Section 3.1 and 3.4.
Attachment 1.
B. Cost Worksheet per application form Section 4.4.4.
Attached.
C. Grant Budget Form per application form Section 9.
Attached.
D. Letters demonstrating local support per application form Section 8.
Attachment 3.
E. An electronic version of the entire application on CD per RFA Section 1.6.
Attached.
F. Governing Body Resolution or other formal action taken by the applicant’s
governing body or management per RFA Section 1.4 that:
- Commits the organization to provide the matching resources for project at the
match amounts indicated in the application.
- Authorizes the individual who signs the application has the authority to
commit the organization to the obligations under the grant. Attachment 3.
- Provides as point of contact to represent the applicant for purposes of this
application. Attachment 3.
- Certifies the applicant is in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local,
laws including existing credit and federal tax obligations.
F. CERTIFICATION
The undersigned certifies that this application for a renewable energy grant is truthful
and correct, and that the applicant is in compliance with, and will continue to comply
with, all federal and state laws including existing credit and federal tax obligations.
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Print Name Rich Walker
Signature
Title City Manager
Date 11-9-09