HomeMy WebLinkAboutAleutians East Borough Geothermal Assessment App
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE ALEUTIANS EAST BOROUGH AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION IN
THE RURAL ALASKA RENEWABLE ENERGY GRANT PROGRAM.
WHEREAS, The Aleutians East Borough wishes to reduce energy costs and lower dependence
upon diesel fuel in its communities of Akutan, Cold Bay, False Pass, King Cove, Sand Point and
Nelson Lagoon; and
WHEREAS, the Borough wishes to help the communities take advantage of any available geo-
thermal resources by identifying and assessing those resources; and
WHEREAS, The Aleutians East Borough wishes to apply for a grant in the amount of $4,336,950
to conduct a Resource Assessment/Feasibility Analysis/Conceptual Design as described in the
attached proposal; and
WHEREAS, the Aleutians East Borough, as a local government entity, is an eligible applicant
and is in good standing with respect to its credit and federal tax obligations; and
WHEREAS, this entity is an applicant for a grant from the Alaska Energy Authority, under the
Renewable Energy Program; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Mayor of the Aleutians East Borough is
hereby authorized to negotiate and execute any and all documents required for granting and
managing funds on behalf of this organization.
The mayor is also authorized to execute subsequent amendments to said grant agreement to
provide for adjustments to the project within the scope of services or tasks, based upon the
needs of the project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Aleutians East Borough agrees to provide in-kind grant
administration and project management as a match for this grant.
PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE ALEUTIANS EAST BOROUGH on this th day of
December 2008.
IN WITNESS THERETO:
By: ________________________ ATTEST:__________________________
Stanley Mack, Mayor Tina Anderson, Clerk
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 1 of 26 10/8/2008
Application Forms and Instructions
The following forms and instructions are provided for 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.html
The following application forms are required to be submitted for a grant recommendation:
Grant Application
Form
GrantApp.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
Costworksheet.doc Summary of Cost information that should be addressed
by applicants in preparing their application.
Grant Budget
Form
GrantBudget.xls A detailed grant budget that includes a breakdown of
costs by task and a summary of funds available and
requested to complete the work for which funds are being
requested.
Grant Budget
Form Instructions
GrantBudgetInstr.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 a plan
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.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 2 of 26 10/8/2008
SECTION 1 – APPLICANT INFORMATION
Name (Name of utility, IPP, or government entity submitting proposal)
ALEUTIANS EAST BOROUGH
Type of Entity:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Mailing Address
3380 C Street, Suite 205
Anchorage, AK 99503
Physical Address
same
Telephone
907-274-7555
Fax
907-276-7569
Email
Sboyette@aeboro.org
1.1 APPLICANT POINT OF CONTACT
Name
Robert Juettner
Title
Borough Administrator
Mailing Address
3380 C Street, Suite 205
Anchorage, AK 99503
Telephone
907-274-7555
Fax
907-276-7569
Email
rjuettner@aeboro.org
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, 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 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.)
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 3 of 26 10/8/2008
SECTION 2 – PROJECT SUMMARY
Provide a brief 1-2 page overview of your project.
2.1 PROJECT TYPE
Describe the type of project you are proposing, (Reconnaissance; Resource Assessment/
Feasibility Analysis/Conceptual Design; Final Design and Permitting; and/or Construction) as well
as the kind of renewable energy you intend to use. Refer to Section 1.5 of RFA.
The Aleutians East Borough (AEB) is proposing a Resource Assessment/Feasibility Analysis/Conceptual
Design project for a regional evaluation of potential geothermal sites and associated transmission lines on
the Aleutian Chain. The project is entitled the Aleutians Geothermal Development and Assessment
Program (AGDAP).
2.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Provide a one paragraph description of your project. At a minimum include the project location,
communities to be served, and who will be involved in the grant project.
AEB proposes a resource assessment/feasibility analysis/conceptual design project of geothermal sites in
the targeted service area.
Goal: The AGDAP goal is to ascertain the feasibility of geothermal power generation for regional
communities and develop conceptual design documents/reports for geothermal generation on the eastern
Alaska Peninsula and associated Aleutian Islands. The AGDAP strategic objectives are as follows:
SO 1: Identify potential geothermal sites in the Aleutian Island Service Area.
SO 2: Undertake a geological, geochemistry, and geophysical assessment of targeted sites for
geothermal power generation potential.
SO3: Undertake a geothermal drilling program to promote regional geothermal interests.
SO4: Develop conceptual design and business plan for follow‐on phases of the projects.
SO5: Conduct an optimization phase in the conceptual design to determine how to supply
power either from one centrally located geothermal plant or from many smaller
geothermal plants, so the communities involved can be evaluated. Included will be
evaluating the use of transmission lines for power versus supplying hot water via a
pipeline to one or several geothermal power plant(s).
The communities represented by AEB are Akutan, Cold Bay, False Pass, King Cove, Nelson Lagoon and Sand
Point. The Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association (APIA) will work with AEB to assist in the with the
community outreach and project coordination. The Aleutian Islands communities represented by APIA are
Akutan, Atka, False Pass, King Cove, Nelson Lagoon, Nikolski, Sand Point and Unalaska. Other communities
that are a part of the Aleutian Chain, but not a part of AEB or APIA are: Adak, Amchitka, and Attu. Some of
these Aleutian Islands Region communities have been abandoned (Belkofski, Pauloff Harbor and Unga),
and the Tribes have been relocated in other communities (e.g. Sand Point). Accordingly, we are proposing
to focus on the geothermal resources in and near Adak, Atka, Cold Bay, False Pass, King Cove, Nelson
Lagoon, Nikolski, Sand Point and Unalaska.
The proposed effort will involve the Tribal and City Councils of the above communities, Aleutian Pribilof
Islands Association, Utilities, village corporations, and industrial interests in the area.
The AEB/APIA team is aware of other geothermal proposals that have a complementary scope of work and
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 4 of 26 10/8/2008
synergies that have or will be submitted to the Alaska Energy Authority. If jointly funded there are
opportunities for cost sharing and co‐mobilization that would not be achieved with independent
proposals. The AEB/APIA team is willing to cooperate with these other projects to promote cost sharing,
co‐mobilization, procurement, and cooperation.
Once the most promising sites have been determined, the technical team will conduct further ground‐
based geophysical assessments in coordination with the geologic surveys to be conducted by Hattenburg,
Dilley, & Linnell. The study will also include a drilling program that would collaborate with the USGS/BLM
drill rig and associated state drilling program if available or a private sector sub‐contractor. Finally, AEB is
proposing conceptual designs and transmission routing studies for the proposed sites.
As a whole, this study will serve as an essential decision support tool for making policy decisions, planning
strategies for further exploration and development.
The proposed effort will involve the Tribal and City Councils of the above communities, village
corporations, and industrial interests in the area. Key partners in the project will include regional non‐
profits and for profit corporations, NANA Pacific, the UAF/Alaska Center for Energy and Power, Hattenburg
Dilley & Linnell (HDL), and additional engineering/scientific consultants.
2.3 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. Include a project cost summary that includes an estimated total cost
through construction.
The total project cost for the Resource Assessment/Feasibility Analysis/Conceptual Design phase is
$4,406,950, of which $4,336,950 is requested in grant funds. The remaining $70,000 will be matched in‐
kind by AEB and by APIA. The total cost of pre‐construction phase of the project is estimated to be $4.5
million which makes up the Resource Assessment/Feasibility Analysis/Conceptual Design portion of this
phase of the project.
Note that we will not be able to fully ascertain feasibility for the entire region due to limitations of funding
availability in the drilling program.
2.4 PROJECT BENEFIT
Briefly discuss the financial benefits that will result from this project, including an estimate of economic
benefits(such as reduced fuel costs) and a description of other benefits to the Alaskan public.
The potential to displace diesel fuel used for village power generation and heating in the targeted service
area has positive potential for the targeted service area. Currently, the targeted communities import
approximately 3.6 million gallons of diesel fuel for power generation in 2008. Through a combined heat
and power system and the use of the available geothermal resources, there is potential for significant cost
savings over the long‐term for geothermal power and heating system through replacement of this
imported fuel, assuming a feasible geothermal resource is available in each community.
Other Benefits to the Alaskan Public:
The anticipated benefits of this program are many; primary among these are meeting the region’s strategy
and vision and reducing the negative impact of the high cost and unpredictability of energy in the area by
providing a predictable and dependable renewable energy alternative. This project could help stabilize
energy costs and provide long‐term socio‐economic benefits to village households. Locally produced,
affordable energy will empower community residents and could help avert rural to urban migration. This
project would have many environmental benefits resulting from a reduction of hydrocarbon use. These
benefits include:
• Reduced potential for fuel spills or contamination during transport, storage, or use (thus
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 5 of 26 10/8/2008
protecting vital water and subsistence food sources).
• Improved air quality.
• Decreased contribution to global climate change from fossil fuel use.
• Decreased coastal erosion due to climate change.
2.5 PROJECT COST AND BENEFIT SUMARY
Include a summary of your project’s total costs and benefits below.
2.5.1 Total Project Cost
(Including estimates through construction.)
Construction of 5 community scale
geothermal plants.
Construction: $5‐6 million for each
RPSU/community
Transmission: $2‐10 million
2.5.2 Grant Funds Requested in this application. $4,336,950
2.5.3 Other Funds to be provided (Project match) $70,000
2.5.4 Total Grant Costs (sum of 2.5.2 and 2.5.3) $4,406,950
2.5.5 Estimated Benefit (Savings) $116 million over 30 years for the
communities of Atka, Cold Bay, False
Pass, King Cove, and Nelson Lagoon
assuming all have feasible geothermal
resource (see section 5)
2.5.6 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.)
Avoided fuel cost‐ 5 communities over a
30 year time frame: $29 million.
Avoided fuel spill cost‐ 5 communities
22 year time‐frame: $3.8 million
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.
AEB, the lead applicant, will provide Grant Administration and Project/Program management and
oversight. AEB is the regional government entity serving the several of the communities in the target
area.
NANA Pacific will serve as the prime contractor and will be responsible for coordination of all activities,
developing and managing sub‐contracts, providing technical assistance, and all project management.
Identified sub‐contractors at this time include HDL and the University of Alaska Fairbanks Center for
Energy and Power.
A subsidiary of NANA Regional Corporation, NANA Pacific is a project management, engineering, and
consulting company, with a specialty in energy. NANA Pacific provides energy related services, including
energy planning, bulk fuel conceptual design, power distribution/design, wind resource assessments,
financial and economic modeling, diesel power generation/distribution, rural infrastructure development,
and facilitation. NANA Pacific’s project/program management projects are handled by professionals with
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 6 of 26 10/8/2008
industry experience in construction, engineering, consulting, and development. NANA Pacific was the
prime consultant for the NANA Region Geothermal Assessment Program funded by the Department of
Energy Tribal Program‐ an on‐going program of NANA Regional Corporation.
Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association, Inc. (APIA) is a regional non‐profit tribal organization with members
consisting of the thirteen federally recognized tribes of the Aleutian Chain and Pribilof Islands region of
Alaska. APIA exists to promote the overall economic, social, cultural health and environmental needs of
the Aleut people. APIA represents tribal and community development interests in the area, and APIA
understands the need for affordable and sustainable energy in the region as well as reliable backup
energy for emergency situations. APIA has an important and vested interest in the success of developing
renewable energy in the region and identification and development of geothermal resources.
At this time, the following technical team members have been identified:
Sharon Boyette Director Community Development with the AEB will serve as Contract and Project
Manager: She will be the primary contact for the lead applicant working as the Grant Administrator/
project manager. She will work with NANA Pacific to provide overall project management and oversight.
Jay Hermanson, Project Manager, NANA Pacific: Jay Hermanson will serve as the Project Manager,
performing all management functions for the project. Mr. Hermanson has managed multiple renewable
energy studies and projects in Alaska and elsewhere.
Bruce Wright, Senior Scientist, APIA: Bruce Wright is the energy program manager for APIA and has
experience with renewable energy projects in the APIA region and the State. Bruce will represent APIA on
this project and work with AEB and NANA Pacific on community outreach and village presentations. He
will provide some program management functions.
Brian Yanity, Project Engineer, NANA Pacific: Technical expertise will be provided by Brian Yanity, who
will serve as the Project Engineer; he holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Columbia University and an
MS in Arctic Engineering from the University of Alaska Anchorage. He will work with AEB to provide
overall project management and oversight.
Lorie M. Dilley, PE/CPG – Principal Geologist/Geotechnical Engineer (HDL). Lorie is a registered
professional civil engineer and a certified professional geologist. Due to her extensive experience, she
brings unique approaches to engineering in Alaska. She is a working principal who performs day‐to‐day
project management and quality control activities. Lorie has over 20 years of experience and possesses a
M.S. in Geology and a B.S. in both Civil Engineering and Geology.
Gwen Holdman, UAF/Alaska Center for Energy and Power
The technical lead for the geophysical work will be ACEP Organizational Director Gwen Holdmann. Ms.
Holdmann has previously managed the geothermal exploration and develop project at Chena Hot Springs
Resort.
Please see resumes in the attachment section of this proposal2 of this proposal (Resumes of Applicant’s
Project Manager, Key Staff, Partners, Consultants, and Suppliers) for details regarding the staff noted
above.
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.)
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 7 of 26 10/8/2008
Please refer to attached schedule. Scheduled dates, by quarter are also included in the project milestones
below. The proposed effort assumes a 24 month schedule and is based upon the state’s Fiscal Year. (Q1=
July‐Sept) (Q2= October‐Dec) (Q3=Jan‐Mar) (Q4=April‐ June)
It is the intention of the technical team to provide a detailed work‐breakdown structure for the entire
program within 30 days of a notice to proceed/signature of contract and are assuming a July 1, 2009
start‐date. NANA Pacific will facilitate a scheduling session to outline the 24 month schedule in detail.
3.3 Project Milestones
Define key tasks and decision points in your project and a schedule for achieving them.
The proposed methodology will emphasize a systematic analysis of development options given the site
selection criteria developed in step 2 below. The AEB/APIA program sponsors will work with the
technical team to ensure that those geothermal resources with the highest likelihood of development will
be the focus of development while marginal resources and those sites with limited or marginal
development potential will be prioritized accordingly.
Key tasks and decision points are described below. The anticipated quarter for completion of each step is
noted in brackets following the description and is included in the Project Schedule described in part 3.2
above. Integral to this process is a series of decisions (i.e. go/no go of prospective sites) at each
milestone/task to decide upon next steps.
1. Project Start‐Up and Additional Data Analysis. (Q1‐ FY 2010) Following a Notice to Proceed (NTP)
from AEB, the technical team will meet to establish project guidelines, assign responsibilities, develop
an appropriate communication plan, select sub‐contractors, and identify information gaps. The group
will confirm which site or combination of sites are most favorable and conduct any required
additional inspection, evaluation, and analysis for the pre‐construction activities.
2. Site Selection Prioritization Criteria Development‐ Process Development. (Q1‐ FY 2010) We have
found that there are many strong opinions about exploration and development of geothermal energy
potential between the many stakeholders involved in the proposed process. At the beginning stages
of this process, it will be important to develop an appropriate and transparent decision making
process that prioritizes the site selection and execution of the proposed scope of work. NANA Pacific
will organize a scoping meeting with project stakeholders to develop the site selection criteria and
the methodology to prioritize the proposed scope of work. The output of this step will be an
appropriate decision matrix that can systematically prioritize selection of site(s) selected.
3. Community Outreach and Village Presentations. (Q1‐ FY 2010) An ongoing process of community
outreach will be initiated at the beginning of the project, including community meetings to seek
public input for the geothermal feasibility and exploration studies. Toward the end of the project, the
NANA Pacific Project Manager or other team representative will travel to targeted communities to
present the Conceptual Design Report and business plan to the villages.
4. Geological and Geochemical Reconnaissance. (Q1‐Q2 FY2010) HDL Engineering will be responsible
for the geological and geochemical component of this project and will entail the following tasks. 1)
Literature compilation; 2) Geochemical Survey of soil, water and rock; 3) Use of Shallow Temperature
Probes; and 4) Data Analysis, GIS Project & Reporting. The first phase will be to compile existing
information on geothermal potential in the area into a preliminary geological report and GIS project.
Phase 2 will include collection of soil, water, and rock samples via a systematic field program that will
include HDL geologist and local village(s) support. Laboratory testing will be conducted by qualified
laboratories in Anchorage and by Energy and Geoscience Institute at the University of Utah. Phase 3
consists of installing shallow temperature probes to identify and map hot spots. The final phase
includes the reporting of the results, interpretation of the results, and a GIS project that will be used
to identify specific areas of potential for geothermal development. We will develop a model for each
IDTask NameDurationStartFinish1Start-up14 daysWed 7/1/09Mon 7/20/092Additional Data Analysis21 daysWed 7/15/09Wed 8/12/093Site Selection Prioritization/Criteria Development- Process Development30 days?Wed 7/15/09Tue 8/25/094Geological and Geochemical Reconnaissance128 daysWed 7/15/09Fri 1/8/105Phase 1: Literature Compilation 30 daysWed 7/15/09Tue 8/25/096Phase 2: Geochemical Survey. 45 daysMon 8/3/09Fri 10/2/097Phase 3: Shallow Temperature Probe Survey45 daysMon 8/3/09Fri 10/2/098Phase 4: Data Analysis, GIS Project & Reporting84 daysTue 9/15/09Fri 1/8/109Geophysical Assessment Studies. Geophysical Assessment Component 230 daysTue 9/1/09Mon 7/19/1010Land Surface Composition Mapping230 daysTue 9/1/09Mon 7/19/1011Thermal Infrared Data Acquisition and Analysis230 daysTue 9/1/09Mon 7/19/1012Limited Field Validation of Thermal Infrared Imaging230 daysTue 9/1/09Mon 7/19/1013Controlled Source AMT Survey of Two Sites230 daysTue 9/1/09Mon 7/19/1014Integrated Analysis in a GIS Environment230 daysTue 9/1/09Mon 7/19/1015Optimization Modeling100 daysMon 3/15/10Fri 7/30/1016Environmental, Antiquities Analysis (EAA) & Permit Review/Submittal120 daysWed 5/12/10Tue 10/26/1017Geothermal Exploration/Drilling Program120 daysFri 10/1/10Thu 3/17/1118Conceptual Engineering Design of Geothermal Plants, Infrastructure and Transmission Lines120 daysMon 1/3/11Fri 6/17/1119Business and Operations Plan45 daysTue 2/1/11Mon 4/4/1120Transition Planning to Final Design90 daysMon 1/10/11Fri 5/13/1121Project Close-Out44 daysMon 5/2/11Thu 6/30/114th Quar1st Quar2nd Qua3rd Quar4th Quar1st Quar2nd Qua3rd Quar4th Quar1st Quar2nd QuaTaskSplitProgressMilestoneSummaryProject SummaryExternal TasksExternal MilestoneDeadlinePage 1Project: Seward Peninsula GeothermaDate: Fri 11/7/08
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 8 of 26 10/8/2008
hot springs area studied. This model will be used to target drilling locations and estimate the
geothermal potential of each hot springs. Confirmation of any geothermal resource is not achieved
until it has been drilled into, geothermal fluids are recovered, and flow rates of individual wells can
be ascertained.
4.1. Task 1: Literature Compilation We will gather existing geological, geochemical, and hydrological
literature on the area. The geology literature will include data from the USGS and DGGS. This
data will serve as the basis for understanding the nature of the geology and structural history of
the area. In addition, available magnetic data will be obtained and reviewed for anomalies that
may indicate structures conducive to geothermal areas. We will also obtain earthquake data on
the area in order to infer locations of potential faults or other structural features. We will
develop a summary of the existing literature including geological maps and cross‐sections of the
area. The information collected in this phase will be organized into a preliminary geological
report in letter form and GIS project, and this will help determine regions of geothermal
concentration for the next two phases. Most of the information can be compiled into a GIS
project in which a series of maps with different parameters can be layered together to assist in
understanding each system and developing a model of each system and the region.
4.2. Task 2: Geochemical Survey. Areas of exploration will be identified during Phase 1. The areas
will likely be near the existing hot springs/communities of interest and will by practical necessity
be limited to 3 to 5 square miles near each hot springs. Field geologists from HDL will travel to
the region and be assisted by local help to complete the field sampling. Soils, waters and rocks
from the areas of interest will be sampled in the field. A grid of locations will be constructed in
the areas of known geothermal activity, and soil, waters and rocks will be sampled along the
nodes of this regular grid. Soils will be sampled using a portable auger from one to three feet
below the surface to avoid organic soils as much as possible, which can interfere with
interpretation of the data. The water and soil samples collected will be submitted for chemical
analysis. Selected water samples may also be submitted for isotope analysis. The isotope
analysis can indicate the origins of the water encountered as either meteoric (rain water) or
geothermal. Elements, such as arsenic and mercury, in soil and water can trace areas of
geothermal activity. Silica and other elements in water can give an indication of possible
reservoir temperature. We have assumed a total of 150 to 200 water and soil samples per site
or a total of about 1,200 samples. Additional water samples will also be collected from local
wells, springs, streams and other surface water in the region outside of the soil and water survey
areas. Outcrops in the study areas will also be studied. Rock samples will be systematically
collected from these outcrops for alteration and fluid inclusion analyses. These analyses will
indicate temperatures that the rocks have been exposed to and help to identify the extent of the
geothermal areas. This analysis will be undertaken with the assistance of the Energy and
Geoscience Institute at the University of Utah
4.3. Task 3: Shallow Temperature Probe Survey. In this phase HDL will conduct a shallow
temperature probe survey. Two probes will be left in the ground for the entire survey to
calibrate seasonal temperature variation; daily temperature variation should not be apparent at
this depth. Although the exact regions that will be surveyed is to be refined with the results
found above, is it is likely that up to four areas of known geothermal activity in the region will
first be surveyed by a line along the long axis of the region, with probes inserted approximately
every 2000 to 4000 feet. If warmer areas are noted, these will be explored by a denser
arrangement of probes around the area. Final locations will depend on field conditions and
results and the location of the soil survey. We anticipate emplacing approximately 60 probes in
the initial transects of the areas, with an additional 20 probes placed to investigate areas that
appear to be warmer than normal, for a total of about 80 probes placed at each area of study
during this investigation. This number assumes the ability to place and measure an average of
20 probes every day by two separate field teams. This number assumes reasonable 4‐wheeler or
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 9 of 26 10/8/2008
snow machine driving conditions. The actual number of probes that can be placed in a day may
vary greatly from this number and will depend on site accessibility, soil conditions and other
factors.
4.4. Task 3: Data Analysis, GIS Project & Reporting. Once the data is compiled and reviewed, we will
develop a geological and feasibility report that will be used in subsequent stages. Much of the
information can be compiled into a GIS project in which a series of maps with different
parameters can be layered together to assist in identifying potential exploration areas. The
maps may include chemical data, thermal imagery, magnetic anomalies, temperature gradients,
hydrological data, etc. By identifying on each layer the areas favorable for geothermal
reservoirs, and then by layering each map together, areas for future exploration and/or
confirmation can be identified. The report will include a description of the project, a summary of
the reviewed literature, an explanation of the geological, hydrological, and structural history of
the area, an explanation of the methods of data collection used, and a discussion of the results
of the geochemical and shallow temperature probe study, especially as it relates to potential
areas for future exploration. This will be supported by the data gathered and the GIS project.
5. Geophysics Component. (Q1‐Q4, FY 2010) Once the most promising sites have been established,
UAF/ACEP will conduct further ground‐based geophysical assessments in coordination with the
geologic surveys previously conducted by Hattenburg, Dilley, & Linnell. As a whole, this study will
serve as an essential decision support tool for making policy decisions and planning strategies for
further exploration and development. Specific tasks to achieve this goal are outlined below.
5.1. TASK 1: Land Surface Composition Mapping. Land surface composition serves as one of the
principal information layers to understanding the general setting of the study area including, but
not limited to, surfacial geology, geomorphology, land use practices, accessibility, proximity to
existing infrastructures, and geotechnical constraints for development. We will procure
available optical and thermal infrared data from several medium resolution Earth observing
satellites, and from old airborne missions. This will include data from:
• Thematic Mapper onboard Landsat 5 and Landsat 7 satellites, available for free from US
Geological Survey;
• ASTER onboard Terra satellite, available to investigators Prakash, Dean and Dehn potentially at
no cost (or nominal cost), through personal contacts with the ASTER science team;
• AVNIR and PRISM onboard Japanese ALOS satellite. This data is acquired and distributed by the
Alaska Satellite Facility at UAF. The investigators are approved ALOS data users and may be able
to request new ALOS image acquisition over the study area at no additional cost to the project.
• Color Infrared photos from U2 plane acquired in the early 80s (Figure 2). This data is of sub meter
resolution and available at the Digital Data Center of Geophysical Institute, the host institution of
the investigators, and will be available for the project at minimal reproduction cost. This scanned
image has no geographic coordinates, and will be georeferenced by our team using either an
IKONOS image, or alternate best available satellite image.
• IKONOS imagery. IKONOS is a commercial remote sensing satellite that provides georectified data
in four spectral channels (including the infrared channel) at a 1 meter spatial resolution. We
request purchase of IKONOS imagery for some selected sites to serve as the ‘master image’ to
which all other image data sets will be georeferenced.
We will carry out visual and digital analysis of the multisensor data sets to generate thematic maps.
Digital analysis will include unsupervised and supervised image classification guided by field knowledge
and tested by field validation. The Landsat, ASTER and ALOS images will allow for regional scale mapping
comfortably at 1:50,000, and at best at 1:25,000 scale. Using airborne CIR image and the IKONOS image,
for selected sites we will target to map at 1:10,000 scale.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 10 of 26 10/8/2008
5.2. TASK 2: Thermal Infrared Data Acquisition and Analysis. For geothermal resource exploration
and development, an analysis of the extent, nature and magnitude of the geothermal anomaly,
and a quantitative estimate of the heat flux beyond the natural radiative heat of the Earth and
Sun is required. We will acquire new airborne thermal infrared images over the selected study
sites, at local reconnaissance and detail survey scale, once during Summer 2009 and again during
late Spring 2010 as local weather and flight conditions allow. The local reconnaissance scale
survey will be carried out to provide thermal infrared images at approximately 4m spatial
resolution and the detail survey will be carried out by flying a lower height of about 750m to
provide thermal infrared images at approximately 1m spatial resolution. Acquiring the data at
two different times will help to reduce uncertainties in analysis introduced due to seasonal
effects. The thermal infrared data will be acquired using a FLIR® Systems Automation Series
ThermaCam A320 mounted on a Cesna Skywagon 185, flown by Tom George of Terra Terpret,
Inc. Along with the thermal images, a small optical camera will be mounted on the plane to
acquire concurrent optical images that will help to further characterize the terrain and help with
thermal image interpretation. A similar setup used in for a thermal survey over Chena Hot
Springs, Alaska in 2004‐2005 gave excellent results (see Figure3 below). The airborne campaign
will result in acquisition of hundreds of thermal infrared images, with each image frame
containing 320 x 240 pixels. The individual image frames will be georectified and mosaiced to
create a near seamless thermal mosaic of the study area. The mosaic will be created for both the
local reconnaissance scale and the detail survey scale images. Pixel integrated temperatures
over a broad 7.5‐13 m range (spectral range of the thermal instrument) will be calculated for
each image pixel, after correcting for atmospheric conditions (humidity and temperature) and
range (distance to the target). A similar mosaic will be created for the airborne optical images to
facilitate direct comparison of thermal data with the optical data. The image mosaics from
summer will be compared with image mosaics from late spring to account for seasonal affects in
the data. Warm hot spring temperatures (thermal anomalies) will be identified using statistical
analysis and thresholding to distinguish from the background pixels. For each thermally
anomalous pixel the relative heat loss in watts will be calculated after correcting for the
background temperature, measuring only flux beyond the natural radiative heat of the Earth and
Sun. An error analysis will be carried out to account for errors introduced by the instrument,
atmosphere, aircraft orientation, and the general terrain.
5.3. TASK 3. Limited Field Validation of Thermal Infrared Imaging. Field work is required to collect
ground control points for image rectification and potential future InSAR studies; for ground
based temperature data collections required for thermal calibration; for limited surfacial
mapping; and for ground validation of classified thematic maps generated from remote sensing
data. Field work will be critical for a first order accuracy assessment of results. We plan to
perform field work at two selected sites that appear to have the greatest potential and best
access, twice during the two year life span of the project – once during Summer 2009 and a
second time during late Spring 2010. Field data will be collected concurrent to the airborne data
acquisition. Field data collection will involve: (a) taking differential GPS measurements of specific
targets to serve as ground control points for georectifying airborne data. GPS measurements will
also aid in any future InSAR studies (b) laying out new calibrated ground control points such as
mounted space blankets (already available to the investigators, and have been tested to give
excellent results in previous studies) (c) field mapping of typical landcover classes to assist in
creating a training set for carrying out landcover classification of airborne and satellite borne
optical data (d) field based temperature and humidity measurements at selected locations and
times. We plan to install about 6 HOBO ™ probe thermistors per test site (for two test sites) to
monitor the ground temperature fluctuations over an annual cycle. This will help to calibrate
airborne thermal data and to account for seasonal variations in temperatures (e) field based
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 11 of 26 10/8/2008
thermal imagery collection using a FLIR® Systems ThermaCam S40 (also available with the
investigators).
5.4. TASK 4: Controlled Source AMT Survey of Two Sites. A ground‐based Controlled‐Source Audio‐
Frequency Magneto‐Telluric (CSAMT) will be conducted at two sites selected for the greatest
potential for future development. These sites will be selected in coordination with other project
participants. The purpose of the CSAMT survey will be to image the subsurface in the chosen
study area(s) and identify permeable features below the valley fill in the proximity of the hot
spots. These data will be interpreted using 2‐ and 3‐dimensional inversion algorithms to image
the subsurface and will be used to identify potential drilling targets. A geothermal reservoir
typically has a high level of porosity and permeability and exhibits relatively high internal
temperatures. These properties lower the electrical resistivity of the reservoir, which are
therefore detectable using electromagnetic geophysics methods. The primary purpose of the
CSAMT survey will be to pinpoint the upflow zone of the thermal fluids in conjunction with soil
and thermal probe surveys to be conducted by Hattenburg, Dilley, and Linnell. This will be
accomplished using a V8 Wireless Data Acquisition System SSEM from Phoenix Geophysics. The
survey will require 3 individuals and 2 weeks field time at each site, plus data processing.
5.5. TASK 5: Integrated Analysis in a GIS Environment. To understand geothermal processes and
systems, no one parameter can provide a complete picture. Integrated analysis in a GIS
environment using, for example a convergence of evidence approach or statistical approach,
helps to identify the most promising areas for further investigation. GIS serves as a powerful
decision support tool. We do not claim to create a full‐blown GIS database, or carry out detail
GIS analysis. However, we will generate results from individual tasks identified above in a
geospatially consistent manner, so that they can be easily integrated in a GIS environment, using
an off the shelf commercial GIS software package such as ESRI’s ArcGIS package.
6. Optimization Modeling. (Q3‐Q4, FY 2010) Upon completion of the geological and geophysical
assessment phase and assuming the geothermal potential is deemed feasible, the team will
undertake a step that optimizes transmission, power generation sites, infrastructure development,
and alternative use options. The technical team will assess the resource for direct use applications
including space heating, power generation, and greenhouse food production. The team will assess
the technical and economic criteria for a greenhouse growing operation utilizing the geothermal
greenhouse operation at Chena Hot Springs as a model for potential development.
7. Environmental, Antiquities Analysis (EAA) & Permit Review/Submittal. (Q4, FY2010) The team will
coordinate an EAA assessment for selected geothermal sites, identifying potential environmental and
cultural impacts as well as avoidance, minimization, or mitigation strategies for these impacts. A
qualified environmental technical lead will conduct the environmental review. For the proposed
drilling program, permits will be completed and submitted by the client, as described in section 4.3.3.
The technical team will assist with submittal.
8. Geothermal Exploration/Drilling Program. (Q1‐Q3 FY 2011) The drilling program will entail drilling a
gradient and confirmation hole drilling to be completed during winter of 2011. The first task would
be to drill two 500 ft slim hole gradient holes based on results from the geological and geophysical
studies to try and delineate the upflow zone. The second task is to drill one 2000‐2500 ft
confirmation hole based on the results from the slim‐hole drilling program to try to verify the
numerical model developed during the geophysical step/studies. There are several options for a drill
rig, including the CS1000 P6 core rig jointly owned by USGS and BLM. In addition, there are some
additional private sector initiatives occurring in the general area that will be pursued for potential co‐
mobilization and cost sharing. The technical team will develop a technical scoping/bid document
that will allow all applicants the opportunity to bid on the drilling program.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 12 of 26 10/8/2008
9. Conceptual Engineering Design of Two Geothermal Plants & Transmission Lines. (Q2‐Q3, 2011) The
technical team will perform a conceptual civil, mechanical, and electrical design of the geothermal
plants and associated infrastructure for the appropriate number of generation plans. The actual
number will be dependent on the results of the feasibility section of this study. The technical team
will perform a preliminary design of the transmission lines needed to connect the proposed
geothermal sites to a community or communities and other possible load centers in the region.
Possible electrical connections between communities will also be evaluated. Electrical design will
include conceptual electrical one‐line diagram, power systems, site‐layout plan, conceptual
transmission line routing, geotechnical engineering, and conceptual load study. Existing and
additional sub‐arctic grounding requirements will be evaluated to meet State of Alaska requirements.
A conceptual design report will be the result of this study. The team will also evaluate the
transmission of hot fluids to the geothermal plants via pipelines as oppose to transmission lines.
Order‐of‐magnitude costs will be developed for the comparison of these two options. Costs at the 35
percent concept level will also be developed for the alternatives considered. Environmental concerns,
such as interference with bird migratory routes, will be considered.
10. Development of Business and Operations Plans. (Q3, FY2011) The technical team will assess and
clarify financial and business issues related to ensuring efficiency in the ongoing operations of the
utility such as technician training, ongoing operation and maintenance (O&M) integration, and
impacts on rate payers. Existing RPSU business plans will be used as a foundation for this analysis.
Within the operations plan will be a delineation of the type of personnel needed to maintain the
continual operation of one or more geothermal power plants and the maintenance of the geothermal
reservoir. Potential business partners and consultants who have the expertise will be evaluated
during this phase of the project.
11. Transition Planning to Final Design and Construction. (Q3, FY2011) AEB will coordinate the
preparation of the final plans and design for future funding. This final step will ensure efficient
execution of the proposed plan and assure that roles and responsibilities are executed during the
operations phase.
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.
AEB will manage all work completed by NANA Pacific. AEB will provide a Project Manager to be the
primary contact for NANA Pacific and the technical team. NANA Pacific will use its own staff, including a
project manager and a project engineer, as well as subcontract with a variety of consultants and
institutions to implement this project. Jay Hermanson has been identified as the project manager. At
this time, Lorie Dilley, PE, with HDL, Gwen Holdman with the Alaska Center for Energy and Power, are
members of the technical team. APIA will also provide program management and oversight of the
proposed effort.
Procurement for the drill rig team will be the object of a competitive procurement process between the
various drilling rig options, including the USGS/BLM and private sector options. Selection will be based
on best value procurement.
Some of the tasks for which we will identify and utilize subcontractors include: conceptual engineering
design; environmental and permitting review; hydrology studies; preliminary geotechnical analyses; and
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 13 of 26 10/8/2008
surveying and mapping.
Selection Process for Contractors: To select contractors and consultants, the technical team will conduct
a rigorous scoping process to adequately define the project’s needs. Various stakeholders will have the
opportunity to develop and comment on the scoping document. The goal is to have the most qualified
contractor, engineer expertise, technology and existing best practices employed in the design and
installation. The resultant scoping document will be the basis for selection of subcontractors. Contractor
and consultant selection will be based upon technical competencies, past performance, written proposal
quality, cost, and general consensus from the technical steering committee.
Potential Subcontractors: AEB and NANA Pacific have been in contact with NANA‐Colt and WH Pacific
regarding the proposed scope of work. Vendors for field study materials will be identified through a bid
process.
3.5 Project Communications
Discuss how you plan to monitor the project and keep the Authority informed of the status.
AEB will work closely with all subcontractors to ensure the project schedule is followed and high quality
products are delivered. NANA Pacific will provide quarterly reports to AEB for finalization and submission
to the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA). NANA Pacific will provide additional reports to AEB as required by
AEA. AEB will submit reports directly to AEA. In addition, public presentations on the AGDAP will be given
at community meetings and conferences. Informational brochures and other publications will be
produced for the general public. Quarterly reporting will be available for the AEB and APIA Boards of
Directors.
3.6 Project Risk
Discuss potential problems and how you would address them.
Logistical challenges and delays associated with fieldwork in our remote rural Alaskan communities
represent potential barriers to the success of the proposed project. The geothermal resources proposed
as sites for this project may be remotely located from the nearest hub airport, and are reachable only by
helicopter, small airplane, snowmachine, or seasonally available barges which travel on local waterways
to bring supplies, fuel and other goods to the villages.
The very remote nature of the sites makes project execution challenging due to topography, geology and
data collection. The process can be time consuming and expensive. Because of changeable weather
conditions and the complex logistics involved in transporting materials to such remote locations, the
season for barge transport is extremely limited, and shipping delays are quite common. Land ownership
will need to be realized and appropriate permits and permissions need to be secured. The construction
and operation of geothermal plants in cold climates also presents the possibility of special problems such
as working icing problems in rivers and streams.
However, AEB and its sub‐contractors are accustomed to dealing with such limitations, and its proposed
partners also have extensive experience in addressing the difficulties associated with conducting business
in such challenging conditions.
Shipping arrangements for research equipment and supplies will be made with ample allowance for
possible delays, and sufficient flexibility will be included in fieldwork schedules to ensure on‐time and
successful completion of all project phases.
Cultural and social challenges such as public perception of geothermal power may also pose potential
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 14 of 26 10/8/2008
problems for the project. We have included village presentations in our project to build awareness of and
support for these projects. These meetings will also seek input from residents about known cultural
resources on the land and any other information that would affect the project, to build local capacity and
identify talent in the region to assist with the project.
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 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 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 Aleutian Arc consists of the entire Aleutian Islands Chain and its structural extensions, the Alaska
Peninsula, and the Aleutian Range. At least 76 major volcanoes occur along this belt extending over 2,400
km from Pt. Spurr on the east to Buldir Island on the west. Of these, at least 36 have been reported active
since 1760. The Aleutian Chain of active volcanoes lies immediately north of the Aleutian Trench, a
convergent boundary between the North American and the Pacific lithospheric plates. This convergence
produces one of the most seismically active belts in the world. Much of the seismicity originates from the
Benioff Zone, the subcrustal region where the Pacific plate is being actively subducted under the margin of
the North American plate along the Aleutian Trench. With the exception of Amak and Bogoslof Islands, the
Aleutian volcanoes all lie about 100 km above the Benioff Zone. The eruption of Aleutian magmas appears
to be intimately related to the subduction process.
• Unalaska – This island is one of two places that the state of Alaska has drilled and tested
specifically to determine the geothermal potential for electricity generation. In the heart of the
Aleutian chain, this island is home to the city of Unalaska, Alaska’s 11th largest city (population of
4,400 to more than 10,000 during fishing season). The city is home to several fish processing plants
and to the port of Dutch Harbor, which is located on the nearby island of Amaknak and is
connected by bridge to the city. The geothermal resource, with a temperature of approximately
202°C (395°F) at 2,000 feet below the surface, is on the volcano, Mount Makushin.
• Akutan – Next door to Unalaska is the smaller island of Akutan—home to both the Akutan volcano
and to the village of Akutan, which has a large fish processing plant that employs 600 – 1,200
people during peak season. The geothermal power plant could provide electricity to the processing
plant and the village.
• Adak – The geothermal potential of the island of Adak was demonstrated by three wells drilled in
1977 by the U.S. Navy. Adak is a volcanic island that lies on the Great Circle navigation route
halfway between Seattle and Japan. The island is in the middle of one of the world’s richest fishing
regions and it has an established infrastructure with an airport, deep‐water port and major fuel‐
storage capabilities. After decades of being a U.S. Naval base, Adak is a prospective area for
investment and growth. One of the investments being considered is the possibility of developing
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 15 of 26 10/8/2008
the island’s geothermal resource.
The Aleutians Island Chain is also home to a known and abundant wind energy resource. There have been
several successful wind turbine installations on the Aleutian Island Chain and future development should
be pursued. However, wind is an intermittent resource and will never be as effective as geothermal in the
replacement of diesel fuel use. In some Aleutian communities, it would likely be impossible to
permit wind energy facilities for environmental reasons including protections for migratory birds.
Tidal energy potential also remains a possibility for energy development in the Aleutian Island Service area.
While promising, the technology is still in the development stages with several beta test deployments only.
It will be the intention of AEB/APIA to monitor the development of the tidal power technology and pursue
at the appropriate time. By most accounts, tidal power technology will be considered viable in a 5 year
time frame.
Woody biomass will remain as a minor heating option, unable to substantially impact the home heating
market due to minimal woody biomass availability in the general area. Due to the availability of the fish
processing industry, bio‐diesel could provide a minor energy resource for niche applications, but unlikely
to substantially impact the regional energy market.
The successful deployment of a geothermal power plant at Chena Hot Springs, combined with the known
geothermal and volcanic activity in the AEB/APIA service area, make geothermal the most attractive
energy option to pursue.
It is the intention of the AEB/APIA team to build upon the lessons learned at Chena Hot Springs and work
with regional stakeholders to assure systematic and scientific exploration/development of the geothermal
resource, subsequently followed by an engineering and construction program that effectively installs a
geothermal power generation and heating system if deemed feasible.
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.
Diesel power generation systems managed by several different utilities in the targeted area are the
standard system in the Aleutians. Available information on these systems is described below:
Village Utility Provider Size Type of Generation
Adak TDX diesel
Atka Andreanof Electric Utility diesel
Cold Bay G & K diesel
False Pass City of False 36KW diesel
King Cove City of King Cove 1 functional 850KW hydro‐
diesel hybrid system
diesel/hydro
Nelson Lagoon Nelson Lagoon Electric
Cooperative
diesel
Nikolski Umnak Power 2 functional units 71kw and
37kw
diesel/wind
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 16 of 26 10/8/2008
Sand Point TDX 5 functional unit2 350KW, 1
650KW, 1 800KW, 1 1200KW
diesel
Unalaska Unalaska Electricity Utility diesel
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.
While the targeted communities may have access to a viable wind resource, geothermal resource is likely
the most promising renewable energy resources in the targeted area. Despite the presence of these
renewable resources, almost 100% of these community’s existing energy resources comes from imported
fossil fuels. While challenging to capture the extent of diesel fuel use in the entire service area, there is
some information that can provide an overall framework of energy use in the Aleutians Island Service area.
More needs to be done to document the use of diesel fuel and other energy use for home heating, power
generation, industrial use, and commercial use in the service area.
In addition to the fuel used by the communities, fish processing facilities in the region use equal or more
fuel. For example, Peter Pan Seafoods in King Cove annually uses 750,000 – 875‐000 gallons of fuel (diesel
mostly). According to Trident Seafoods, they utilize approximate 3,151,000 gallons of diesel for electrical
generation and 1,231,000 gallons of diesel for steam generation for one of their fish processing facilities in
the service area. They believe that if geothermal energy was available in close proximity, they could
replace the fossil fuel used in steam generation with the geothermal resource.
The amount of fuel imported in 2007 for power generation into each community is found below was
provided by APIA as part of this proposal.
Community Gallons
Adak unavailable
Atka 57,483
Cold Bay 212,996
False Pass 65,000
King Cove 157,496
Nelson Lagoon 34,087
Nikolski 32,943
Sand Point 304,671
Unalaska 2,732,302
Sub‐total 3,596,978 Gallons
The following table provides a snap‐shot of delivered fuel deliveries in the targeted communities. Please
note that this should not be interpreted as a complete picture of fuel use in the community because as
heating fuels are not included and there are likely more deliveries to the targeted regions.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 17 of 26 10/8/2008
Community Number of Deliveries Gallons
Akutan 2 100,000
False Pass 1 65000
Sand Point No data available; they get their fuel from the fish
processor
Nelson Lagoon 1 25000
King Cove 4 400,000
Nikolski 1 11,000
Atka 1 120,000
4.2.3 Existing Energy Market
Discuss existing energy use and its market. Discuss impacts your project may have on energy
customers.
The load of the targeted villages listed above is highest during the winter months, with the bulk of
electricity consumed by residences and public facilities such as schools. Lower power rates are possible
from geothermal power displacing diesel generation.
Village Average
Residential
Electrical Rate
Annual KWh
Generated
Gallons of fuel
used for
power
generation
Type of
Generation
Required PCE
Payment
Adak No data in PCE report diesel
Akutan $.32 540 48,005 diesel/hydro
Atka 404,665 57,483 diesel
Cold Bay $.55 2,697,600 212,996 diesel 59,867
False Pass No data in PCE report diesel
King Cove $.24 2,167,955 157,496 diesel/hydro 94,333
Nelson
Lagoon
.52 754,313 34,087 diesel 53,439
Nikolski No data in PCE report 32,943 diesel/wind
Sand Point $.47 4,212,600 304,671 diesel 458,068
Unalaska .$33 38,761,739 2,732,302 diesel 574,647
COMMUNITY
Utility Owner
DIESEL FUEL
CONSUMED
BY UTILITY
(ANNUAL)
FUEL COST
DIESEL
(CURRENT)
FUEL SALES
(GALLONS)
VALUE OF
ENERGY
Total KWh
Energy
Production
(2007)
#1 #2 #1 #2
Akutan
City of Akutan 48,005 $4.78 $4.73 10,000 80,000 $227,063.65 540,924
Atka
Andreanof
Electric
Company
57,483 $4.85 N/A N/A $278,792.55 404,665
False Pass
City of False
Pass
65,000 $4.09 $265,850.00
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 18 of 26 10/8/2008
Nelson Lagoon
Nelson Lagoon
Corporation
30,000 N/A $5.96 $178,800.00 754,313
Nikolski
Umnak Power
Company
23,000
$4.17
‐
$7.00
20,000 $83,400 ‐
$140,000 252,641
St. George
City of
St.George
80,000 $5.42 $433,600.00 1,008,000
Total 303,488 $5.20 $1,578,137.60 2,960,543
The load of the targeted villages listed above is highest during the winter months, with the bulk of
electricity consumed by residences and public facilities such as schools during this time. Lower power rates
are possible from geothermal power displacing diesel generation.
With the direct use of geothermal heat energy, the displacement of heating fuel is also possible. The heat
fuel in the region is heating oil.
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
The AGDAP is based on the Chena Hot Springs PowerPureCycle™ 200 geothermal power plant
demonstration project that came online in late July 2006.
This concept differentiates from the Chena experience by being off road, village scale power generation.
Chena Hot Springs is the lowest temperature geothermal resource to be used for commercial power
production in the world at 165 degrees. This compares favorably with known temperatures in the targeted
service area. Due to the demonstrated successful project and availability of lessons learned at Chena Hot
Springs, the prospects for a successful project in the targeted service area is encouraging. However,
there are some industrial applications that should be pursued and incorporated into the analysis.
Low‐temperature hydrothermal fluids (<150 ºC) must be run through a binary‐cycle system to produce
electrical power. In binary power systems, hydrothermal fluid and a secondary (“binary”) fluid pass
through a heat exchanger, vaporizing the binary fluid, which then drives a turbine. The temperature
requirements for binary systems depend on site characteristics (available condensing temperature, volume
of geothermal fluid, etc.). The binary system at Chena Hot Springs uses geothermal fluid at ~80 °C.
The binary‐cycle power generation system at Chena Hot Springs employs two Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC)
turbines manufactured by United Technologies. A similar system would most likely be the type used to
harness geothermal resources in the targeted service area.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 19 of 26 10/8/2008
It is not yet known where the most economic sites are for geothermal power generation in the region, but
a variety of alternative configurations will be evaluated for the communities in the study area, for both
community and industry use. These different alternatives will include various power plant and alternative
uses. Transmission will also be considered where appropriate.
Aside from electric power generation, other geothermal energy applications involving the direct use of
heat will be evaluated. These include geothermal space heating, greenhouses, water heating, and
refrigeration. The majority of the overall energy consumed in each of these communities is in the form of
space heating, so direct‐use applications of geothermal heat could prove to be very practical.
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.
Due to the regional geographic scope and the intent to optimize the geothermal energy resource, the
specific land owner is unknown at this time. It is generally assumed that within close proximity to the
targeted communities, the city, tribal council, village corporation, or private interest will own the land and
some other entity (Regional Corporation, State, or Federal Government) will own the sub‐surface rights.
There is a higher likelihood that the Regional Native Corporation, State, or Federal government will own
both the surface and the sub‐surface rights as the geothermal resource becomes further away from the
community.
The AEB, as a regional government representative, and APIA as a tribal representative, are ideally
positioned to work with local landowners to resolve land ownership issues.
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
As part of this study, past permitting process and applications will be reviewed and current requirements
together with a permitting timeline will be created. The team will identify the necessary permits from both
the environmental perspective, and the power plant(s) and transmission line. The environmental issues
are discussed in Section 4.3.4. Requirements necessary for obtaining permits and a timeline for the
permitting process will be determined. Established easement corridors, if any, will be identified.
Geothermal power plants emit limited emissions thus air permitting is not anticipated to be a large
component and likely will not require long lead times. However, for this feasibility study we will discuss
the air permitting requirements with the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation and air
permitting specialists to evaluate the requirements of the permit and the timeline involved. Environmental
concerns of early stages of the project, during surface geothermal investigations, appears to be minimal.
The following permit requirements may apply to the drilling portion of this project. The Alaskan Guidelines
for Exploratory Operations is found in Article 3, Chapter 11 AAC 87.010 to AAC 87.290. This section
outlines guidelines for the exploration of geothermal systems and the drilling of all geothermal wells in the
state. However, resources with a temperature of less than 248 °F are not defined as geothermal but rather
permitted as a water resource under Alaska state statutes.
• Application for geothermal exploration drilling. As per Alaska Statutes Sec. 41.06.050, ‘an operator
shall file an application with the commissioner for permission to drill the well’.
• Drilling Permit. As per Article 3, Chapter 11 AAC 87.070 ‘a drilling permit is required before the
drilling, redrilling, or deepening of any well and before the reentry of an abandoned well’. This
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 20 of 26 10/8/2008
permit must include plans for well identification, casing, cementing, and blowout prevention.
• Drilling Bond. As per Article 3, Chapter 11 AAC 87.080 ‘an applicant for a drilling permit shall file
an indemnity bond for each well drilled, redrilled, or deepened, or a statewide bond for the drilling,
redrilling, or deepening of one or more wells on the same lease or unit area. The bond must be in
the amount the commissioner determines necessary to ensure compliance with applicable
provisions of this chapter’.
• Plan for abandonment of geothermal exploration well. As per Article 3, Chapter 11 AAC 87.030,
the applicant must provide the state with a plan for exploration well abandonment done in ‘such a
manner that will protect freshwater aquifers and prevent subsurface interzonal migration of fluids
and surface leakage’.
• Survey Monument Requirement. As per Article 3, Chapter 11 AAC 82.640, ‘a survey or
monumentation of lease boundaries may be required by the commissioner to determine
compliance with lease or to determine the extent of possible damage to adjacent properties from
lease operations’.
• Environmental Impact Assessment. It is not anticipated that this project would have significant
environmental impact, however an Environmental Assessment for the drilling phase of this
operation will be required (water discharge, total project footprint). The State of Alaska
Environmental Statute pertaining to exploration is AS 46.15.010. Assessment must be approved by
the Department of Environmental Conservation Permitting Office and/or the Commissioner’s
Office.
4.3.4 Environmental
Address whether the following environmental and land use issues apply, and if so how they will be
addressed:
• Threatened or Endangered species
• Habitat issues
• Wetlands and other protected areas
• Archaeological and historical resources
• Land development constraints
• Telecommunications interference
• Aviation considerations
• Visual, aesthetics impacts
• Identify and discuss other potential barriers
The team will conduct as part of the concept design phase a preliminary environmental analysis to
evaluate the potential effects of the project. Anticipated environmental issues to be addressed include
floodplains, wetlands, threatened and endangered species, fisheries, historical and cultural resources, land
development constraints, and construction impacts. Additional issues that will be fully addressed include
socioeconomic issues, and rights‐of‐way requirements. We will identify potential environmental impacts
and present mitigation measures as appropriate. These impacts may affect the siting of facilities and the
optimization phase.
Surface geothermal exploration activities may involve small surface disturbances. Geophysical surface
measurements, including seismic surveys, should not leave any permanent disturbance to the landscape.
Geochemical analysis will likely consist of taking soil, rock and water samples. The environmental impacts
of these activities should be negligible.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 21 of 26 10/8/2008
4.4 Proposed New System Costs (Total Estimated Costs and proposed 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
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 22 of 26 10/8/2008
Total Anticipated Project Costs. The total anticipated cost for this phase is based upon the major
milestones found in section 3.3.
1. Project Start‐Up and Additional Data Analysis. This is based upon the actual experiences of a
project of this magnitude. $5,850
2. Community Outreach and Village Presentations. The cost for this step is estimate to be $12,000.
This includes travel to all 6 targeted communities to explain the objectives of the program and
expectations from the community. $54,300
3. Site Selection Prioritization Criteria Development‐ Process Development. $9,550
4. Site Identification and Characterization Geology/Geochemistry Site Assessment & Survey. The
estimate for this step is based upon actual costs incurred during the NANA Region Geothermal
Assessment program and HDL’s Field Estimate. $345,500
5. Geophysical Assessment Studies. The geophysical study is based upon an estimate provided to
NANA Pacific from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and assumes targeting two sites in 3 different
communities. $904,000
6. Optimization Modelling. This step is based upon 3 FTE engineers/analysts and 50 hours of billable
time. $32,100
7. Environmental, Antiquities Analysis (EAA) & Permit Review/Submittal. This estimate is based
upon 80 hours of a permitting specialist’s time to develop and submit all required permits.
$69,000
8. Geothermal Exploration/Drilling Program. This estimate is based upon the assumptions provided
by USGS/BLM: Total estimated costs: $2,717,500
9. Conceptual Engineering Design of Geothermal Plants & Transmission Lines. The estimate is
based upon conceptual design costs experienced by NANA Pacific in several projects in rural
Alaska. The assumed cost is two separate conceptual designs and associated geotechnical studies.
$212,100
10. Business and Operations Plan. Estimate is based upon contractors actual experiences in
developing business plans. $48,500
11. Final Design/Construction/Installation Plan, O&M Plan transition planning. $8,550
The total estimate cost for the Resource Assessment/Feasibility Analysis/Conceptual Design phase is
$4,406,950
Requested Grant Funding
AEB is requesting $4,336,950 for this grant request.
Applicant Match Funding. The Aleutians East Borough and APIA will provide an estimated $70,000 of staff
time for both direct and indirect purposes, representation, travel, and other purposes associated with
execution of this scope of work.
Projected capital cost of proposed renewable energy system
The projected installed capital cost (rough order of magnitude) for the targeted communities (without
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 23 of 26 10/8/2008
transmission) is assumed to be in the $5‐6 million range for load needs of approximate 500kw;
approximately $5 million in the 300‐400 kw range. Transmission costs for community use is assumed to be
$400,000/mile. The total capital cost of geothermal plant installation in the targeted communities is
assumed to be $8,000/kW.
Identification of other project funds.
Due to the variety of partner types, including utilities, economic development organizations, tribal entities,
and others, there are a wide variety of funding options to consider, including the BIA, DOE/NREL, and
private sector options. Finally, there are commercial interests, such as Trident Seafoods and Peter Pan
Seafoods, in close proximity to these targeted areas who have significant load and power needs.
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.
• Total anticipated project cost for this phase
• Requested grant funding
This phase of the project has no Operation and Maintenance (O&M) costs, and we are not requesting grant
funding for O&M. The O&M costs of the proposed geothermal plants will be projected as part of the
feasibility effort. Different sites are likely to have different costs to deal with roads, power lines, intake
maintenance, and production maintenance.
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
At this time, the development of a geothermal power generation system in the area is primarily for
community use. However, there are sizeable commercial, mining, and utility interests in the region.
These commercial interests will be targeted for both co‐development and for power purchase agreements.
The proposed approach will include the feasibility of co‐development between regional stakeholders, the
communities, electric utilities, AEA, and commercial mining interests. The approach will analyze ownership
scenarios, risk management, operations, cost sharing, and potential power purchase agreements between
these entities.
Of particular concern for the targeted communities is the availability of a reasonably priced energy
alternative. Project development and operation costs need to be scaled to assure reasonable priced
energy and power options for community use. It will be the intention of the proposed effort to fully
understand the costs associated with operations of a geothermal power generation system and propose a
pricing system based on a cost/cooperative methodology.
However, the targeted service area is home of Alaska’s fishing industry and is unquestionably an energy
value hub due to its abundance of wind, geothermal, and other energy resources. The technical team will
be cognizant of industry trends and energy needs and will target industry for development assistance and
power purchase agreements.
4.4.4 Cost Worksheet
Complete the cost worksheet form which provides summary information that will be considered in
evaluating the project.
This project is in the preconstruction phase, and we do not yet know all of the conditions which must be
considered for O&M and overall costs and benefits. The attached cost worksheet reflects this.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 24 of 26 10/8/2008
4.4.5 Business Plan
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.
The technical team will incorporate information from the preliminary and conceptual design stages to
develop a draft Business Plan for AEB’s Peninsula/Aleutian Islands geothermal development program.
The resulting plan will include the following topics:
• Executive summary
• Community information
• Management infrastructure
• Financial data
• Key assumptions
• Capital replacement schedule
• Funding legal authority and issues
• Inter‐agency relationships.
4.4.6 Analysis and Recommendations
Provide information about the economic analysis and the proposed project. Discuss your
recommendation for additional project development work.
Several reports over the years have suggested geothermal sites in the targeted service area have
potential to serve the area. The possible addition of electric demand driven by the fishing industry, value
added manufacturing, mining activity, community growth, along with the limited ability to deliver fuel by
barge, and significant increases in the delivered cost of diesel fuel make this local resource a timely
candidate for evaluation for feasibility, design, and permitting.
AEB/APIA is proposing tasks up to a conceptual design and business plan for at least one geothermal site
for the targeted service area. We believe that the geothermal energy resource is worthy of multi‐phase
financing.
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 avoided cost of ownership)
• 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
Some quantifiable external benefits from geothermal energy production include: 1) elimination of fuel‐
related subsidies for electricity generation; 2) savings on heating fuel and elimination of emergency
assistance for heating fuel costs; 3) benefits to the community from greenhouse production; 4) avoided
fuel spills; and 5) avoided/reducing CO2 emissions.
Assuming that a geothermal resource can be developed in 5 of the targeted communities, AEB/APIA
estimate that they can displace approximately 530,000 gallons of fuel for Atka, Cold Bay, False Pass, King
Cove, and Nelson Lagoon (excluding Unalaska). The estimate avoided fuel cost over a 30 year time
frame with an assumed 3.5% inflation rate is estimated at $116 million.
Renewable Energy Fund
Grant Application
AEA 09-004 Grant Application Page 25 of 26 10/8/2008
One public benefit in particular is the avoided cost of the “Required PCE Payments” as found in the
Power Cost Equalization Report. The public benefit is calculated as the avoided cost of the “Required PCE
Payment” as found in the FY 2007 Power Cost Equalization Cost report for the targeted communities.
For FY2007, the State of Alaska paid a combined $574,647 to 5 of the utilities responsible for those
communities. Payment to other communities was not included in this report. This cost to the state of
Alaska could be approximately $29 million over a 30 year time frame and assuming 3.5% inflation rate.
Other economic benefits includes avoided fuel spills, which is estimated to be $764,677/per community
between 2008‐2030. (Kolker, 2008) This would amount to an additional public benefit of be $3.8 million
for the 5 targeted communities.
SECTION 6 – GRANT BUDGET
Tell us how much your total project costs. Include any investments to date and funding sources,
how much is requested in grant funds, and additional investments you will make as an
applicant.
Include an estimate of budget costs by tasks using the form - GrantBudget.xls
Please refer to attached grant budget for review.
•
Alaska Energy Authority ‐ Renewable Energy FundBUDGET SUMMARYMilestone or Task Federal Funds State FundsLocal Match Funds (Cash)Local Match Funds (In‐Kind)Other FundsTOTALS1. Project Start‐Up and Additional Data Analysis$3,750.002,100.00$5,850.002 Community Outreach and Village Presentations$52,200.002,100.00$54,300.003 Site Selection Prioritization Criteria Development‐ Process Development$8,500.001,050.00$9,550.004 Geological and Geochemical Reconnaissance$335,000.0010,500.00$345,500.005 Geophysics Component$890,000.0014,000.00$904,000.006 Optimization Modeling$30,000.002,100.00$32,100.007. Environmental, Antiquities Analysis (EAA) & Permit Review/Submittal$55,000.0014,000.00$69,000.008. Geothermal Exploration/Drilling Program$2,700,000.0017,500.00$2,717,500.009. Conceptual Engineering Design of Two Geothermal Plants & Transmission Lines$210,000.002,100.00$212,100.0010. Development of Two Business and Operations Plan$45,000.003,500.00$48,500.0011. Transition Planning to Final Design and Construction$7,500.001,050.00$8,550.0070,000.00Milestone # or Task #$4,406,950.00BUDGET CATAGORIES:123456 7891011TOTALSDirect Labor and Benefits$2,100.00$2,100.00$1,050.00$10,500.00$14,000.00$2,100.00$14,000.00$17,500.00$2,100.00$3,500.00$1,050.00$70,000.00Travel, Meals, or Per Diem$0.00Equipment$0.00Supplies$0.00Contractual Services$3,750.00$52,200.00$8,500.00$335,000.00$890,000.00$30,000.00$55,000.00$2,700,000.00$210,000.00$45,000.00$7,500.00$4,336,950.00Construction Services$0.00Other Direct Costs$0.00TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES $5,850.00$54,300.00$9,550.00$345,500.00$904,000.00$32,100.00$69,000.00$2,717,500.00$212,100.00$48,500.00$8,550.00$4,406,950.00NotesAEB‐ in kind match $35,000, staffing, travel, and other supportAPIA‐ In‐kind match $35,000BUDGET INFORMATIONRFA AEA09-004 Budget Form
Renewable Energy Fund
Application Cost Worksheet
Please note that some fields might not be applicable for all technologies or all project phases. 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. While believed to be significant, the geothermal
resource has not been adequately measured in the
Aleutians Island service area and in particular for these
targeted communities. Therefore, it is not possible to
provide a scientific and accurate annual resource
availability. It is generally agreed that there is a
significant geothermal resource available.
2. Existing Energy Generation
The proposed effort is focusing on the geothermal resources in and near Adak, Atka, Cold Bay, False
Pass, King Cove, Nelson Lagoon, Nikolski, Sand Point and Unalaska.
a) Basic configuration (if system is part of the Railbelt 1 grid, leave this section blank)
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)
The technical team needs to collect more precise information on the targeted communities for peak
load, average load, minimum load, efficiency, and future trends. This will be undertaken under step 1 of
the proposed scope of work.
i. Electricity [kWh]
ii. Fuel usage: (Power generation only)
• Adak: unavailable
• Atka: 57, 483
• Cold Bay: 212,996
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.
RFA AEA 09-004 Application Cost Worksheet revised 9/26/08 Page 1
Renewable Energy Fund
• False Pass: unavailable
• King Cove: 157, 496
• Nelson Lagoon: 34,087
• Nikolski: 32,943
• Sand Point : 304,671
• Unalaska: 2,732,302
iii. Peak Load
iv. Average Load
v. Minimum Load
vi. Efficiency[kwh/gal]
vii. Future trends
d) Annual heating fuel usage (fill in as applicable)
At this time, we are assuming power generation only; home heating will be analyzed for potential. The
home heating market needs to be better understood.
3. Proposed System Design
The AGDAP is based on the Chena Hot Springs PowerPureCycle™ 200 geothermal power plant
demonstration project that came online in late July 2006.
Low‐temperature hydrothermal fluids (<150 ºC) must be run through a binary‐cycle system to produce
electrical power. In binary power systems, hydrothermal fluid and a secondary (“binary”) fluid pass
through a heat exchanger, vaporizing the binary fluid, which then drives a turbine. The temperature
requirements for binary systems depend on site characteristics (available condensing temperature,
volume of geothermal fluid, etc.). The binary system at Chena Hot Springs uses geothermal fluid at ~80
°C.
The binary‐cycle power generation system at Chena Hot Springs employs two Organic Rankine Cycle
(ORC) turbines manufactured by United Technologies. A similar system would most likely be the type
used to harness geothermal resources in the targeted service area.
a) Installed capacity We have assumed an installed capacity of 550‐750 kw to
serve the combined needs of one targeted communities.
b) Annual renewable electricity generation
It is unknown the extent of the geothermal energy resource in the targeted area. By most accounts, it is
substantial.
i. Diesel [gal or MMBtu]
ii. Electricity [kWh] TBD
iii. Propane [gal or MMBtu]
RFA AEA 09-004 Application Cost Worksheet revised 9/26/08 Page 2
Renewable Energy Fund
iv. Coal [tons or MMBtu]
v. Wood [cords, green tons, dry tons]
vi. Other
4. Project Cost
a) Total capital cost of new system • Construction: $6‐7 million
• Transmission Cost: $1‐$25million Depending on
the scope of the project.
b) Development cost $4.5‐$5.0 million
c) Annual O&M cost of new system Average annual operations and maintenance is assumed
to be $130,000/year over a 30 year project lifecycle with
an annual cost inflation rate of 3.5%. The operations and
maintenance cost in FY2008 dollars is assumed to be
$75,000.
d) Annual fuel cost There is no annual fuel cost with geothermal energy.
5. Project Benefits
a) Amount of fuel displaced for
Assuming that a geothermal resource can be developed in 5 of the targeted communities, AEB/APIA
estimate that they can displace approximately 530,000 gallons of fuel for Atka, Cold Bay, False Pass, King
Cove, and Nelson Lagoon (excluding Unalaska).
The estimate avoided fuel cost over a 30 year time frame with an assumed 3.5% inflation rate is
estimated at $116 million.
i. Electricity 530,000 gallons over a 30 year project lifecycle.
ii. Heat
iii. Transportation
b) Price of displaced fuel $116 million over a 30 year project lifecycle over a 30 year
lifecycle, assuming $4.00/gallon of diesel fuel 3.5% annual
inflation rate.
c) Other economic benefits One public benefit in particular is the avoided cost of the
“Required PCE Payments” as found in the Power Cost
Equalization Report. The public benefit is calculated as the
avoided cost of the “Required PCE Payment” as found in the
FY 2007 Power Cost Equalization Cost report for the
targeted communities.
For FY2007, the State of Alaska paid a combined $574,647
to 5 of the utilities responsible for those communities.
RFA AEA 09-004 Application Cost Worksheet revised 9/26/08 Page 3
Renewable Energy Fund
RFA AEA 09-004 Application Cost Worksheet revised 9/26/08 Page 4
Payment to other communities was not included in this
report. This cost to the state of Alaska could be
approximately $29 million over a 30 year time frame and
assuming 3.5% inflation rate
d) Amount of Alaska public benefits Other economic benefits includes avoided fuel spills, which
is estimated to be $764,677/per community between 2008‐
2030. (Kolker, 2008) This would amount to an additional
public benefit of be $3.8 million for the 5 targeted
communities.
6. Power Purchase/Sales Price
a) Price for power purchase/sale Assumed to be for village power generation and use.
Power purchase agreements will be pursued as appropriate.
7. Project Analysis
a) Basic Economic Analysis
Project benefit/cost ratio To be determined.
Payback Depending on the final design and scope, the project payback would
be anywhere from 12‐18 years.