HomeMy WebLinkAboutKaktovik Wind Diesel Feasibility Study Project Concept Design Report - Nov 2013 - REF Grant 7040025KAKTOVIK WIND PROJECT
CONCEPT DESIGN REPORT
Prepared For:
North Slope Borough
P.O. Box 69
Barrow, AK 99723
Prepared By:
Mark Swenson, PE
3335 Arctic Blvd., Ste. 100
Anchorage, AK 99503
Phone: 907.564.2120
Fax: 907.564.2122
November 12, 2013
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Project
North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 i
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report has been prepared for the North Slope Borough (NSB) to provide a conceptual
design and cost analysis for the development of wind diesel power generation in the
community Kaktovik, Alaska. Kaktovik is a rural, coastal community of approximately 239
residents (2010 U.S. Census Population) located on the north shore of Barter Island, between
the Okpilak and Jago Rivers on the Beaufort Sea coast. The NSB currently provides the electric
power in Kaktovik via a power plant which is comprised of four diesel generators. Integration of
wind turbine power into the electrical power generation system will offset diesel consumption
and provide a renewable energy resource for the rural community. A Project Layout Plan in
Appendix A shows the project location, and major components of the project.
In June, 2009, a meteorological (met) tower was installed at the south side of the village near
the sewage treatment plant. The met tower was equipped with instrumentation and data
loggers to evaluate and record the wind resource on Barter Island. Data obtained from the met
tower had many missing gaps, namely due to a lost data card, ice and wind damage, and the
loss of both 30 meter level anemometers. However, V3 Energy was able to use a wind modeling
software to synthesize data via a gap fill subroutine. The results of the data acquisition and
analysis of the wind resource are included in the Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis dated October,
2013 (Appendix B).
Preliminary wind turbine sites were researched and analyzed in April and May of 2013. On June
11, 2013, (NSB), Hattenburg Dilley & Linnell (HDL), and V3 Energy performed a site visit to verify
site conditions and to conduct a community meeting. Multiple wind turbine sites were
investigated and one site was selected for evaluation for this report. The first site (Kaktovik
Site 1) is located west of the community on KIC land. The second site (Kaktovik Site 2) is located
closer to the community and water source lake, also on KIC lands. The third site (Kaktovik Site
3) is located south of the new airport and northeast of the new landfill on KIC lands. The sites
were selected because they are at least 0.5 miles from the coastline which is recommended by
the Alaska Energy Authority’s (AEA) Best Practices Guide to Environmental Permitting and
Consultation, and because they minimize conflicts with the new airport’s airspace. All sites are
located in a Class 5 wind resource (very good) and are within 2 miles of the power plant in
Kaktovik.
For this report, the consultant selected three wind turbine configurations for evaluation.
• The first configuration includes (3) Aeronautica AW 29 225 arctic turbines. The AW29 225
turbine is stall regulated, has a synchronous (induction) generator, active yaw control, a 29
meter diameter rotor, is rated at 225 kW power output, and is available with 30, 40, or 50
meter tubular steel towers. The AW29 225 is fully arctic climate certified to 40° C and is
new to the Alaska market with no in state installations at present. The (3) Aeronautica
AW29 225 turbine array has a maximum power generation output of 675 kW.
• The second turbine configuration consists of (7) Northern Power NPS 100 21. The NPS 100
turbine is rated at 100 kW, is stall regulated and operates upwind with active yaw control,
has a direct drive permanent magnet synchronous generator, comes equipped with a 21
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Project
North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 ii
meter or 24 meter diameter rotor, and is available on 30 and 37 meter tubular steel
monopole towers, or on a 48 meter four leg lattice tower. The NPS 100 21 is available as
fully arctic climate certified to 40° C and is the most represented village scale wind turbine
in Alaska with a significant number of installations in the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta region of
the state, but also five turbines in Gambell and Savoonga on St. Lawrence Island. The (7)
Northern Power 100 Arctic turbine array has a maximum power generation output of 700
kW.
• The third turbine configuration consists of (3) Vestas V27. The V27 is pitch regulated, has
a synchronous (induction) generator, active yaw control, a 27 meter diameter rotor, is rated
at 225 kW power output, and is available with 30, 40, or 50 meter tubular steel towers.
Each turbine would be installed on a group of steel piles and a concrete or steel pile cap that
attaches to the tower base. A comparison of the three turbine configurations installed at each
site is presented in Tables EX 1 and EX 2 below.
Table EX 1: Turbine Alternative Comparison Summary
Alt Turbine Selection Site
Generation
Capacity (kW)
Estimated
Capital Cost
Estimated
Capital Cost
per Installed
kW
Estimated Annual
Energy
Production
@ 100 %
Availability
1 (3) AW 29 225’s 2 675 $7.8 M $11,579 1,684 MWh
2 (7) NP 100’s 2 700 $11.3 M $16,161 1,975 MWh
3 (3) V27’s 2 675 $7.1 M $10,552 1,739 MWh
*Source:Annual Energy Production data taken from V3 Energy’s November2013 Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis
Table EX 2: Economic Analysis Summary
Alt
Annual Wind
Generation @
80% Availability
(kWh)
Wind Energy For
Power (kWh/yr)
Wind
Energy For
Heat
(kWh/yr)
Wind as %
Total Power
Production (%)
Wind as %
Total Thermal
Production (%)
Heating Fuel
Displaced By
Wind Energy
(gal/yr)
1 1,347,679 1,240,655 107,024 28 2.3 2,736
2 1,579,760 1,443,036 136,724 32.5 3.0 3,495
3 1,390,849 1,261,189 129,660 28 2.8 3,314
*Source:Annual Energy Production data taken from V3 Energy’s November2013 Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis
Based on the analysis presented above, we recommend NSB proceed with design and
permitting for installation of Alternative 3: Three V27’s at Site 2. If site control cannot be
negotiated for Kaktovik Site 2, we recommend that the turbines be installed at Site 1.
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Project
North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 iii
Table of Contents
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY................................................................................................... i
2.0 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 1
2.1 BACKGROUND ...................................................................................................................... 1
2.2 LOCATION ............................................................................................................................. 2
2.3 CLIMATE ................................................................................................................................ 3
2.4 EXISTING ELECTRICAL POWER SYSTEMS ............................................................................. 3
2.5 ELECTRICAL DEMAND ........................................................................................................... 5
2.6 KAKTOVIK RECOVERED HEAT POTENTIAL ........................................................................... 7
2.7 CONTRIBUTORS AND SOURCES OF INFORMATION ............................................................ 7
2.8 LIMITATIONS ........................................................................................................................ 7
3.0 WIND DATA ACQUISITION AND MODELING.................................................................. 8
3.1 DATA ACQUISITION .............................................................................................................. 8
3.2 WIND MODELING RESULTS .................................................................................................. 9
4.0 KAKTOVIK WIND SITE ANALYSIS.................................................................................... 9
4.1 WIND SITE INVESTIGATION .................................................................................................. 9
4.1.1 Kaktovik Site 1 .......................................................................................................... 9
4.1.2 Kaktovik Site 2 ........................................................................................................ 11
4.1.3 Kaktovik Site 3 ........................................................................................................ 11
5.0 WIND TURBINE SYSTEM ALTERNATIVES...................................................................... 12
5.1 KAKTOVIK WIND TURBINE ANALYSIS ................................................................................ 12
5.1.1 Areonautica AW29 225 .......................................................................................... 13
5.1.2 Northern Power 100 Arctic..................................................................................... 14
5.1.3 Vestas V27 .............................................................................................................. 14
5.2 ALTERNATIVE 1 THREE AW29 225 TURBINES INSTALLED AT KAKTOVIK SITE 2 ............ 14
5.3 ALTERNATIVE 2 SEVEN NP100 TURBINES INSTALLED AT KAKTOVIK SITE 2 ................ 15
5.4 ALTERNATIVE 3 THREE VESTAS V27 TURBINES INSTALLED AT KAKTOVIK SITE 2 ........ 15
5.5 ALTERNATIVE COMPARISON SUMMARY .......................................................................... 16
6.0 ECONOMIC EVALUATION ............................................................................................ 16
6.1 METHODOLOGY AND APPROACH ..................................................................................... 16
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North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 iv
6.2 ECONOMIC EVALUATION RESULTS .................................................................................... 17
7.0 PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE........................................................................................... 17
8.0 GEOTECHNICAL REVIEW.............................................................................................. 17
9.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS............................................................................. 18
9.1 HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL: ALASKA STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
(SHPO)....................................................................................................................................... 18
9.2 WETLANDS AND WATERS OF THE U.S.: U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS (USACE)...... 18
9.3 FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION (FAA)................................................................... 18
9.4 BIOTIC RESOURCES AND FEDERALLY LISTED THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES:
UNITED STATES FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS)............................................................... 19
9.5 CONTAMINATED SITES, SPILLS, AND UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS ........................ 19
9.6 ANADROMOUS FISH STREAMS .......................................................................................... 19
9.7 STATE REFUGES, CRITICAL HABITAT AREAS AND SANCTUARIES...................................... 19
9.8 LAND OWNERSHIP.............................................................................................................. 19
9.9 SUBSISTENCE ACTIVITIES ................................................................................................... 20
9.10 AIR QUALITY ..................................................................................................................... 20
9.11 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT REVIEW (NEPA)........................................... 20
9.12 ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................ 20
10.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS.................................................................. 22
11.0 REFERENCES................................................................................................................ 23
Figures
Figure 1: AEA Wind Resource Map................................................................................................ 1
Figure 2: Site Map.......................................................................................................................... 2
Figure 3: 2012 load Data Provided By NSB.................................................................................... 6
Figure 4: 2013 load Data Provided By NSB.................................................................................... 6
Figure 5: Kaktovik Met Tower........................................................................................................ 8
Figure 6: Kaktovik Site 1............................................................................................................... 10
Figure 7: Kaktovik Site 2............................................................................................................... 11
Figure 8: Kaktovik Site 3............................................................................................................... 12
Figure 9: Aeronautica AW29 225................................................................................................. 13
Figure 10: Northern Power 100................................................................................................... 14
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November 12, 2013 v
Figure 11: Vestas V27.................................................................................................................... 14
Tables
Table 1: Energy Consumption Data ............................................................................................... 7
Table 2: Wind Turbine Comparison............................................................................................. 13
Table 3: Alternative Comparison Summary.................................................................................. 16
Table 4: Economic Evaluation Summary....................................................................................... 17
Table 5: Environmental Summary Table....................................................................................... 21
Appendices
Appendix A: Wind Project Conceptual Design Drawings
Appendix B: V3 Energy’s November2013 Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis Draft Report
Appendix C: Applicable Sections of North Slope Borough Village Heat Recovery Project Analysis
Report
Appendix D: Community Meeting Notes
Appendix E: Capital Cost Estimates
Appendix F: Geotechnical Review and Feasibility Study for Kaktovik Wind Turbines
Appendix G: Miscellaneous
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November 12, 2013 vi
ABBREVIATIONS
AAC Alaska Administrative Code
ADEC Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation
ADF&G Alaska Department of Fish and Game
ADNR Alaska Department of Natural Resources
AEA Alaska Energy Authority
AVEC Alaska Village Electric Cooperative
B/C Benefit to Cost Ratio
CRC Cultural Resource Consultants, LLC
DA Department of Army
EA Environmental Assessment
ER Environmental Review
FAA Federal Aviation Administration
FY Fiscal Year
FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact
°F Degrees Fahrenheit
HDL Hattenburg Dilley & Linnell
ISER Institute for Social and Economic Research
kW Kilowatt
kWh Kilowatt Hour
M Million
Met Meteorological
Mph Miles per hour
MWh Megawatt hour
NLUR Northern Land Use Research
NP100 Northern Power 100 Arctic
NWI National Wetlands Inventory
NWP Nationwide Permit
OEAAA Obstruction Evaluation/Airport Airspace Analysis
PCE Power Cost Equalization
PCN Pre Construction Notification
PLC Programmable Logic Controller
PM Particular Matter
SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
Sec Section
SMNC St. Michael Native Corporation
USFWS United States Fish & Wildlife Services
USGS United States Geological Services
WAsP Wind Atlas and Application Program
Yr Year
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North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 1
2.0 INTRODUCTION
2.1 BACKGROUND
This report has been prepared for the North Slope Borough (NSB) to evaluate alternatives for
incorporating wind power into the power generation system in Kaktovik, Alaska.
The wind turbines are necessary to reduce NSB’s dependence on imported diesel fuel and
provide an alternate source of renewable energy to rural communities. Preliminary findings
included in the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) Alaska high resolution wind resource map (Figure
1) indicate that the Kaktovik region has a Class 5 wind regime suitable for wind power
development.
The purpose of this report is to provide NSB with alternative conceptual design and cost
information for developing the wind energy resource in Kaktovik. This report includes an
assessment of the wind resource, investigation of potential wind turbine locations, wind
turbine generator comparison, and economic analysis of the turbine alternatives.
Figure 1: AEA Wind Resource Map
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North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 2
2.2 LOCATION
The proposed wind turbine project is located near the village of Kaktovik on Barter Island.
Kaktovik is located on the northern shore of Barter Island facing the Kaktovik Lagoon and the
Beaufort Sea. The village is on the northern edge of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
(ANWR), 640 miles northeast of Anchorage and 118 air miles southeast of Prudhoe Bay.
Kaktovik is situated at approximately 70°7’03.56” North Latitude and 143°37’56.44 West
Longitude (Sec. 18, T09N, R033E, Umiat Meridian). There are no roads leading to Kaktovik, its
only access is by flight or by barge service. (See Figure 2). The barge service makes a trip once
a year from Seattle leaving June and arriving in Kaktovik sometime in August. Year round
aircraft access is available via an existing 4,820 foot long by 100 foot wide gravel runway in
Kaktovik. Currently a new runway is under construction to replace the existing, which will
consist of a 4500 foot long by 100 foot wide gravel runway. The runway is owned and
maintained by the North Slope Borough.
Kaktovik has a population of 239 residents (2010 U.S. Census Population), with 88.7% being
Alaska Native or American Indian. The local residents depend heavily on the subsistence
harvest of marine and terrestrial mammals. Primary employment in Kaktovik is with the North
Slope Borough, North Slope Borough School District and Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation.
Figure 2: Site Map
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Project
North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 3
2.3 CLIMATE
Kaktovik has a maritime influenced arctic climate, famous for short summers and long winters
with blizzard conditions. The temperatures range from 56°F in the winter to 78°F in the
summer. Annual precipitation averages 5 inches, with 20 inches of snowfall.
2.4 EXISTING ELECTRICAL POWER SYSTEMS
Existing Kaktovik Power Plant
NSB’s existing Kaktovik power plant is located on Fourth Street South on the southern outskirts
of Kaktovik. The power plant is owned and maintained by the NSB. The plant, built in 2000,
consists of a 82 foot by 60 foot insulated pre engineered steel structure. The power plant
contains generator appurtenances, day tanks, an office, bathroom, storage area, a maintenance
area, radiator room and switchgear. The Power Plant does not have boilers; the building utilizes
waste heat only. From the power plant two feeders serve the (2) 1000kVA transformers that
feed north and south distribution loops for the village
The building is founded on a passively refrigerated, insulated slab on grade type foundation.
The power plant contains the following Caterpillar generator sets:
(2) Caterpillar 910 kW 3512 diesel generator (Last Major Overhaul in 2012)
(2) Caterpillar 450 kW 3508 diesel generator (Last Major Overhauled in 2012)
2,720 kW Total Generation Capacity
Currently there are four generators installed with space available for two additional generators.
An electric boiler could be placed within the space allocated for one of the future generators.
This would still allow for one future generator should the village power requirements grow
requiring a fifth generator.
The existing power plant switchgear is rated 4000A, 277/480V, 3 Phase, 4 Wire consisting of six
(6) generator sections, a master control section, and two (2) distribution sections. Four (4) of
the six (6) generator sections contain generator breakers and controls (Caterpillar EMCP II) and
the remaining two (2) generator sections are spared for future use containing only generator
breakers without controls. The master section contains the Switchgear PLC, various controls,
gauges and alarm indicators as well as a totalizing meter, east and west feeder meters and the
station service meter. Distribution Section #1 contains the east and west feeder breakers as
well as provisions for a future 1600A frame feeder breaker. Distribution Section #2 contains the
Station Service feeder breaker as well as two additional spare feeder breakers. The switchgear
was designed and manufactured by Controlled Power Inc. out of Bothell, WA for NC Machinery
(generator supplier). The Power Plant is also scheduled for major upgrades and/or
replacement, with design beginning as early as 2014. This work would include a new Paralleling
Switchgear with a new Allen Bradley PLC and Woodward EasyGen Generator Control system.
A new wind turbine installation would require the use of one of the existing spare switchgear
generator sections. The existing feeder breakers in one of the sections could be utilized to
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Project
North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 4
connect the new wind turbines to the switchgear. Only a trip unit would need to be replaced
within the existing breaker as the frame size is adequate for the proposed wind turbine
capacity, however, it may be desired to replace the existing breaker with a new GE PowerBreak
II model per current NSB standards. The section would also need to be equipped with a new
controller that would be connected to the existing Switchgear PLC to allow for proper load
sharing between the new wind turbines and the existing diesel generators. Appendix A shows
the existing Power Plant One Line Diagram with the addition of a typical Wind Turbine
installation.
The proposed location for the new wind turbines will require a new overhead, 2400/4160V, 3
Phase, 4 Wire distribution line as well as two (2) 750kVA pad mounted transformers, one at the
wind farm and the other at the power plant, to step the voltage up and back down prior to
tying into the existing power plant switchgear.
According to the historic Alaska Energy Authority records (AEA) Power Cost Equalization (PCE)
program, the power plant generated a total of 4,806,050 kWh in Fiscal Year 2012 with an
average efficiency of 13.25 kWh per gallon of diesel consumed
Waste Heat.Waste heat is captured from all four generators via the engine jacket water.
Exhaust stack heat recovery is not being utilized at this time. The engine jacket water rejects
heat to a waste heat plate and frame heat exchanger located in the power plant radiator
plenum. Waste heat from the engines is distributed to the various NSB buildings via two
centrifugal pumps connected to a waste heat pipe manifold.
Two waste heat loops are connected to the manifold. The first loop is buried and connects the
new power plant to the old power plant with a tee off to the Utilities School District Warehouse
(USDW) and Public Works Vehicle Maintenance Shop (VMS) buildings. The second loop is an
above ground loop that supplies the Water Treatment Plant, Health Clinic, and Fire Station. All
facilities are operated by the NSB. Both loops are constructed with well insulated arctic pipe
which results in minimal heat loss to the atmosphere or ground.
The engine jacket water heat recovery system on average generates approximately 1.1 million
BTUs per hour of useable energy. As presently constructed the village wide waste heat
recovery system is able to absorb all of this heat for most of the year. Only during a few
summer months is more waste heat generated than can be used. During this period the engine
radiators are used to cool the engines; the rest of the year the waste heat system acts as the
engine radiators.
If wind power is generated in the village an electric boiler secondary controller would be used
to store the energy that cannot be absorbed instantaneously by the electric power grid. The
electric boiler would be located in the power plant or in a nearby module and would connect to
the waste heat loop downstream of the jacket water heat exchangers. The new electric boiler
will be fed from a feeder breaker from the existing switchgear Distribution Section #2. The
existing spare 800A frame breaker should be adequate for the new electric boiler. If a new
radiator is installed for excess waste heat rejection, the associated motor can be powered from
the existing power plant Panel ‘AA’, similar to the existing radiators.
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North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 5
2.5 ELECTRICAL DEMAND
Historical data from the AEA Alaska Power Cost Equalization Program (PCE) report was analyzed
to determine trends in the Kaktovik energy consumption. The PCE program is a reliable source
of historic power, fuel consumption, and energy cost information for rural communities
throughout the state. The PCE program provides funding subsidies to electric utilities in rural
Alaskan communities in order to lower energy costs to customers. This program pays for a
portion of the kilowatt hours sold by the participating utility. The exact amount paid varies per
location and is determined by the amount of energy generated and sold, the amount of fuel
used to generate electricity, and fuel costs.
Each year, AEA publishes PCE program information including fuel consumption, power
generation and sales, and electricity rates for eligible communities. During the fiscal year 2012
(July 1, 2011 to June 30 2012), 83 residential and community facilities in Kaktovik were eligible
to receive PCE assistance. Kaktovik customers received funding for 5.2% of kilowatt hours sold
and had electricity rates reduced from an average of 15 cents per kilowatt hour to 13 cents per
kilowatt hour.
The Kaktovik Power Plant was built around 2000 and currently supplies all of the power to the
Village. The main power loads within the Village are the School, the Water Treatment Plant,
the Clinic, the USDW Building and the Vehicle Maintenance Shop which are all serviced via an
overhead electrical distribution system operating at 2400/4160V. Other community buildings
within the Village include the Fire Station and Public Safety Office. The exact condition, loading
and phase balancing of the overhead distribution system is unknown, however, recent
discussions with NSB Personnel have indicated that Kaktovik is due for an overhead line
upgrade as early as the summer of 2014. The extent of this upgrade is not fully known at this
time. The Power Plant Switchgear and Generators are configured to automatically follow the
required load on the system at any given time. There are currently no diversion loads within
the Village.
Electrical load profile information is shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 below. The high and low
kW values were taken directly from Excel spreadsheets provided by the North Slope Borough,
and the average kW was interpolated from daily hourly values recorded by the Power Plant
Operators.
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North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 6
Figure 3: 2012 load Data Provided By NSB
Figure 4: 2013 load Data Provided By NSB
The calculated average hourly load for calendar year 2012 was 547 kW, with a peak recorded
load of 769 kW, and an average daily demand of 13,120 kWh. Figure 4 shows a maximum 780
kW Demand recorded by the Kaktovik Power Plant in January of 2013. Table 1 provides
additional energy consumption data for Kaktovik. Assuming that the community demand for
power will increase linearly with a 2% average population growth rate, it is estimated that the
power generation system will experience an average power demand of 813 kW, a peak power
demand of 1,143 kW, and an average daily energy demand of 19,496 kWh in the year 2032.
HIGH
LOW
AVG
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
KW2012 LOAD DATA
HIGH
LOW
AVG
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUSTKW2013 LOAD DATA
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Project
North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 7
Community Total KWhs
Generated
Diesel Fuel Used
Average
kWh Load
Peak kWh
Load
Customers
(Residential
and
Community
Facilities)
Gallons Cost ($)Average
Fuel Price
($/gallon)
Diesel
Efficiency
(kWh/gallon)
Kaktovik 4,806,050 362,584 1,552,904 4.28 13.25 547 769 83
*Source:Annual PCE Report FY 2012, Kaktovik Power Plant Operator Report 2012
2.6 KAKTOVIK RECOVERED HEAT POTENTIAL
The power plant currently circulates waste heat from generator engine jackets to the old power
plant, USDW, VMS, Water Treatment Plant, Health Clinic, and Fire Station buildings. A
summary of the average, minimum, and maximum thermal loads is included in V3 Energy’s
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Feasibility Analysis (Appendix B) and is used as the basis for the cost
projections included in the economic modeling.
Based on the analysis performed, the six end user buildings have a total estimated fuel
consumption of approximately 115,000 gallons per year and it is estimated the existing heat
recovery system offsets approximately 75,000 gallons of fuel per year. The wind power
alternatives discussed in this report will incorporate excess wind power into the heat recovery
system via a electric boiler secondary load controller. The addition of the wind power is
estimated to save between 2,736 gallons and 3,495 gallons of heating fuel currently being used,
resulting in a 2.3% to 3.0% boost in recovered heat production. Additional information about
the Kaktovik recovered heat system is included in the relevant portions of the North Slope
Borough Village Heat Recovery Project Analysis Report in Appendix C.
2.7 CONTRIBUTORS AND SOURCES OF INFORMATION
Physical site information contained in this report was gathered by HDL during field
investigations and through the use of GPS data and aerial imagery. Power plant controls,
integration assistance, and historical electrical load data was provided by the NSB Department
of Public Works. V3 Energy provided the Kaktovik Wind Diesel Feasibility Analysis. RSA
Engineering provided the North Slope Borough Village Heat Recovery Project Analysis Report.
Power plant and waste heat engineering assistance was provided by RSA Engineering. Kaktovik
Community data was obtained from the Alaska Community Database available at
www.commerce.state.ak.us/dca/commdb/CF_CIS.htm
2.8 LIMITATIONS
This report, titled Kaktovik Wind Project Concept Design Report, was prepared for NSB in
support of a grant funding request for design and permitting a wind tower project in Kaktovik,
Alaska. Design information contained herein is conceptual for planning and budgetary cost
estimation purposes only.
Table 1: Energy Consumption Data
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North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 8
3.0 WIND DATA ACQUISITION AND MODELING
3.1 DATA ACQUISITION
On June 26, 2009 NSB installed a 30 meter tall meteorological (met) tower located 650 meters
(2,100 feet) south of the village boundary near the sewage treatment plant (See Sheet G1.03,
Appendix A). The met tower location is owned by Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation (KIC). The met
tower was equipped with three separate anemometers, a wind vane, a temperature sensor, a
relative humidity sensor, and a voltmeter. Two of the anemometers were installed 30 meters
above ground level and one was installed 20 meters above ground level. The tower collected
wind data at this location until October 2, 2009 after which the data card was lost and all data
from October 2 to November 13 were lost with it. Following the loss of the data card,
December experienced a frequent occurrence of icing events which rendered the anemometers
and wind vane inoperable for much of the month. Early January 2010 resulted in both the 30
meter level anemometers breaking off the tower and they were not replaced until March 3,
2010.
The collected data was stored on a data logger mounted to the base of the met tower. Stored
data was downloaded every 3 to 6 months during site visits to inspect the equipment. The
quality of the data was poor with only 62 to 71 percent data return from the anemometers and
wind vane. NSB contracted with V3 Energy to analyze the collected wind and temperature data
and calculate wind speed, air density, prevailing wind direction, wind shear, and other factors
effecting wind energy production. The data collection process and modeling results are further
defined in V3 Energy’s November2013 Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis (Appendix B).
Figure 5: Kaktovik Met Tower
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Project
North Slope Borough Concept Design Report
November 12, 2013 9
3.2 WIND MODELING RESULTS
The results of V3’s wind modeling are presented in the Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis (Appendix
B). The collected wind data depicted Class 5 (very good) wind resources at the Kaktovik met
tower site. Considering the anemometer problems, the data could not be used independently
to calculate mean annual wind speed, thus it was necessary to use wind analysis software to
insert synthesized data into the missing gaps, which ultimately resulted in a wind resource
prediction in line with the Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) data source.
Although the location of the met tower is not a proposed wind turbine site the data is still
considered representative for areas elsewhere on the island due to the open tundra
environment and relatively flat topography of Barter Island.
4.0 KAKTOVIK WIND SITE ANALYSIS
4.1 WIND SITE INVESTIGATION
On June 11, 2013, Mark Swenson (HDL), Jason Johnston (HDL) and Tom Nicolos (NSB) traveled
to Kaktovik. The purpose of the site visit was to investigate three potential wind sites
identified through an office evaluation of access, permit requirements, land ownership, and
potential strength of the wind resource using aerial imagery and topographic maps. During the
reconnaissance, three sites were inspected for access and terrain. The three sites investigated
include Site 1, Site 2, and Site 3, as shown on Sheet G1.03, Appendix A. Snow covered the
tundra at the time of the inspection and detailed inspection of the ground features could not be
performed. The consultant and NSB also made a presentation at the June 11, 2013 Kaktovik
City Council meeting providing a status of the project, presentation of sites under
consideration, and answered the community's questions, which are provided in Appendix D.
During the community meeting a fourth site, Drum Island, was suggested by the community as
a desirable location for wind turbines. The Drum Island site is located approximately 2.5 miles
east of the community across the Kaktovik Lagoon. Because of the water crossing and distance
it was discounted from further consideration because more feasible sites were identified.
On August 20 and 21, 2013, Scott Hattenburg (HDL), Rico SanJose (NSBPW), Douglas Vaught
(V3), Ralph DeStefano (RSA), and Rich Stromberg (AEA) traveled to Kaktovik to inspect the
tower sites, surface geology, power plant, and facilities using waste heat. The team walked to
Site 2 and met with the NSB power plant operator and inspected the generators, controls, and
waste heat systems.
4.1.1 Kaktovik Site 1
Kaktovik Site 1 is located at 70û07’24.86” north latitude, 143û41’48.54” west longitude,
approximately 1.95 miles from the power plant at an estimated elevation of approximately 50
feet MSL. This site is located west of the community on KIC land and approximately 2.4 miles
west of the Kaktovik met tower. Terrain is very flat with no observable terrain features. Ground
cover consists of saturated tundra grass vegetation. Subsurface conditions are expected to be a
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November 12, 2013 10
thin organic mat (1 to 2 feet) with ice rich fine grained permafrost soils and the potential for
saturated sands and fine gravel as deeper depths typical of the Barter Island area. Bedrock is
not expected. The wind tower foundation type at this site would likely be a pile group (6 or 8 in
a hexagon or octagon layout) of passively refrigerated slurry back steel piles in augured holes,
with a steel or concrete pile cap to transfer loads from the tower base to the piling. Access to
the site would be along an existing trail that will be upgraded during the airport project, and
then a new access road across virgin tundra to the site. Easements with KIC would be required.
Wind modeling suggests a potential Class 5 wind resource at this site. See V3 Energy’s
November2013 Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis (Appendix B) for wind modeling information.
The relatively high potential wind resource at this site makes it a desirable wind farm location.
Figure 6: Kaktovik Site 1
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November 12, 2013 11
4.1.2 Kaktovik Site 2
Kaktovik Site 2 is located at 70û07’30.71” north latitude, 143û39’44.91” west longitude, at an
elevation of approximately 50 feet MSL. The site is located closer to the community and water
source lake, and is also on KIC lands. The subsurface conditions, vegetation, terrain, and
foundation type at this site would generally be the same as Site 1.
Figure 7: Kaktovik Site 2
Wind modeling suggests a potential Class 5 wind resource at this site. See V3 Energy’s
November2013 Kaktovik Wind Diesel Feasibility Analysis (Appendix B) for wind modeling
information. This is the preferred site because it is of flat open terrain and is the closest site to
the power plant which will equate to lower construction costs and lower maintenance costs for
the power line and roads.
4.1.3 Kaktovik Site 3
Kaktovik Site 3 is located at 70° 06' 32.39" north latitude, 143° 39' 51.72” west longitude, at an
elevation of approximately 40 feet MSL. The site is located south of the new airport and
northeast of the new landfill on KIC lands. The area is wetter, contains numerous wetland
ponds and is reported to be a subsistence waterfowl hunting area. The subsurface conditions,
vegetation, terrain, and foundation type at this site would generally be the same as Site 1.
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Figure 8: Kaktovik Site 3
At the time of the site investigation, Kaktovik Site 2 appears to be the most promising
alternative for wind farm construction due to the higher exposure, lower environmental
impacts, close proximity to the power plant and reasonably good access. Alternatives 1, 2, and
3 presented in Section 5.0 below include wind turbine options installed at this site. The
extrapolated wind data from the Kaktovik Met Tower suggests a potential Class 5 wind
resource at Kaktovik Site 2 which is sufficient for power generation. See V3 Energy’s report in
Appendix B for wind modeling information.
5.0 WIND TURBINE SYSTEM ALTERNATIVES
5.1 KAKTOVIK WIND TURBINE ANALYSIS
The following 3 turbine alternatives were selected for evaluation at Site 2: the Aeronautica 29,
Northern Power 100 Arctic, and Vestas V27. The most significant factor with respect to the
choice of wind turbines in Kaktovik is the height limitation dictated by the proximity of the
prospective wind turbine site to the new airport. Obstruction heights are governed by FAR Part
77, Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace, and are subject to FAA review and approval to
determine if the obstruction adversely impacts the national airspace system. These turbines
were selected because they are small enough to meet the FAA height limitations and large
enough to meet the power load of Kaktovik. See Table 2 for the comparative size. All
configurations are classified as medium wind diesel penetration systems having a goal to offset
20% to 50% of the community’s energy demand with wind power. A medium penetration
system provides a balance between the amount of energy provided and the complexity of the
wind generation and integration systems.
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Table 2: Wind Turbine Comparison
Aeronautica
AW 29 225
Northern
Power NPS
100 21 Vestas V27
Rating (225kW) (100kW) (225kW)
Hub Height (m) 30.0 m 30.0 m 31.5 m
Rotor Diameter (m) 29.0 m 21.0 m 27.0 m
Turbine Total Height (m) 44.5 m 40.5 m 45.0 m
Foundation Height (m) 2.5 m 2.5 m 2.5 m
Total Height Above Grade (m) 47.0 m 43.0 m 47.5 m
Total Height Above Grade (feet) 154 ft 141 ft 156 ft
5.1.1 Areonautica AW29 225
The first turbine option is the Areonautica AW29 225 turbine.
AW29 225 turbines are manufactured new in Durham, New
Hampshire. The AW29 225 turbine is available with 30, 40, or
50 meter high tubular towers, 225 kW power output, active
yaw control, and a synchronous (induction) generator. The
turbines are equipped with a 29 meter diameter rotor.
Currently there are no in state installations of the AW29 225,
however they are fully arctic climate certified and have had a
long and successful history in the wind industry. Three AW29
225s have a maximum power generation output of 675 kW at a
wind speed of 33.6 mph. The blades are fixed pitch and stall
regulated at high wind speeds. The blades are aerodynamically
designed to stall during extreme wind events in order to
maintain a safe operating speed. This method of control
eliminates the mechanical and electric blade control systems
involved with pitch controlled turbines.
Figure 9: Aeronautica AW29 225
Kaktovik Wind Diesel Project
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November 12, 2013 14
5.1.2 Northern Power 100 Arctic
The second turbine configuration consists of seven Northern
Power 100 Arctic (NP100s) turbines. The NP100’s are
manufactured by Northern Power Systems in Barre, Vermont.
The NP100 is a 30 meter high, 100 kW, permanent magnet,
synchronous, direct drive wind power generator, with a 21
meter rotor diameter, and is the most represented village scale
wind turbine in Alaska with a significant number of installations
in the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta region of the state as well as five
turbines in Gambell and Savoonga on St. Lawrence Island.
Each turbine is equipped with active yaw control, but does not
have blade pitch control capability. The seven proposed
Northern Power100 Arctic generators have a maximum
cumulative power generation output of 700 kW at a wind
speed of approximately 32.4 mph.
5.1.3 Vestas V27
The third turbine option consists of three Vestas V27 turbines. Vestas turbines were originally
manufactured in Denmark; presently they are manufactured
under license in India. The V27 is pitch regulated, has a
synchronous (induction) generator, active yaw control, a 27
meter diameter rotor, 225 kW power output, and is available
with 30, 40, or 50 meter tubular towers.
St. Paul Island, Alaska currently operates the V27 turbine, and
they are presently available to Alaska as a remanufactured unit
from Hauls Power Systems in San Leandro, California.
5.2 ALTERNATIVE 1 THREE AW29 225 TURBINES INSTALLED
AT KAKTOVIK SITE 2
This alternative proposes installation of three AW29 225 turbines
at Kaktovik Site 2 for a total cumulative generation capacity of
675 kW. The project includes construction of approximately
2,760 feet of 16 foot wide gravel access trail and three
approximate 1,000 square foot circular gravel pads at the wind
tower locations. The proposed trail and wind tower pads would
be insulated with rigid insulation and are anticipated to be 4 feet thick and consist of locally
available sand and gravel compacted to 90% maximum density. The drivable surface of the
embankment is constructed with 6 inches of crushed aggregate surface course. The turbines
Figure 11: Vestas V27
Figure 10: Northern Power 100
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November 12, 2013 15
are installed on a 30 meter high, conical, monopole tower. The wind tower foundation would
be a pile group (6 or 8 in a hexagonal or octagonal layout) of passively refrigerated slurry back
steel piles in augured holes, with a steel or concrete pile cap to transfer loads from the tower
base to the piling. Power is delivered from the wind turbines to the Kaktovik power plant by a
1.2 mile long transmission line. See Appendix A for the location and layout of Alternative 1.
The wind farm modeling by V3 Energy (Appendix B) predicts that this alternative will add 1,347
MWh/year of annual energy production to the Kaktovik power generation system at 80%
turbine availability. The construction cost for this alternative is estimated to be $11,579 per
installed kW. See Capital Cost Estimate included in Appendix E.
5.3 ALTERNATIVE 2 SEVEN NP100 TURBINES INSTALLED AT KAKTOVIK SITE 2
This alternative proposes installation of seven NP100 turbines at Kaktovik Site 2 for a total
cumulative generation capacity of 700 kW. The project includes construction of approximately
4,100 feet of 16 foot wide gravel access trail and seven approximate 1,000 square foot circular
gravel pads at the wind tower locations. The proposed trail and gravel pads would be 4 feet
thick. Embankments and foundations are anticipated to be the same as previously described in
Alternative 1. Power is delivered from the wind turbines to the Kaktovik power plant by a 1.2
mile long transmission line. See Appendix A for a site plan of Alternative 2.
The wind farm modeling provided by V3 Energy (Appendix B) predicts that this alternative will
add 1,579 MWh/year of annual energy production to the Kaktovik power generation system at
80% turbine availability. The construction cost for this alternative is estimated to be $16,161
per installed KW. See Capital Cost Estimate included in Appendix E.
5.4 ALTERNATIVE 3 THREE VESTAS V27 TURBINES INSTALLED AT KAKTOVIK SITE 2
For the purposes of comparison, this alternative proposes installation of three Vestas V27
turbines at Kaktovik Site 2 for a total cumulative generation capacity of 675 kW. The project
includes construction of approximately 2,760 feet of 16 foot wide gravel access trail and three
approximate 1,000 square foot circular gravel pads at the wind tower locations. The proposed
trail and wind tower pads would be insulated with rigid insulation and are anticipated to be 4
feet thick and consist of locally available sand and gravel compacted to 90% maximum density.
The drivable surface of the embankment is constructed with 6 inches of crushed aggregate
surface course. The turbines are installed on a 31.5 meter high, conical, monopole tower. The
wind tower foundation would be a pile group (6 or 8 in a hexagonal or octagonal layout) of
passively refrigerated slurry back steel piles in augured holes, with a steel or concrete pile cap
to transfer loads from the tower base to the piling. Power is delivered from the wind turbines
to the Kaktovik power plant by a 1.2 mile long transmission line. See Appendix A for a site plan
of Alternative 3.
The wind farm modeling provided by V3 Energy (Appendix B) predicts that this alternative will
add 1,390 MWh/year of annual energy production to the Kaktovik power generation system at
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80% turbine availability. The construction cost for this alternative is estimated to be $10,552
per installed KW. See Capital Cost Estimate included in Appendix E.
5.5 ALTERNATIVE COMPARISON SUMMARY
Table 3 below summarizes the capital costs and estimated annual energy production for each
turbine alternative.
Table 3:Alternative Comparison Summary
Alt Turbine Selection Site
Generation
Capacity (kW)
Estimated
Capital Cost
Estimated Capital
Cost per Installed
kW
Estimated Annual
Energy Production
@ 100 %
Availability
1 (3) AW 29 225’s 2 675 $7.8 M $11,579 1,684 MWh
2 (7) NP 100’s 2 700 $11.3 M $16,161 1,975 MWh
3 (3) V27’s 2 675 $7.1 M $10,552 1,576 MWh
*Source:Annual Energy Production data taken from V3 Energy’s November2013 Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis
6.0 ECONOMIC EVALUATION
6.1 METHODOLOGY AND APPROACH
The Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis prepared by V3 Energy (Appendix B) includes an economic
analysis of the Kaktovik power generation system using the HOMER energy modeling software
for the turbine alternatives. The software was configured for a medium to high penetration
system with the first priority to meet the community’s electrical demands and the second
priority to serve the recovered heat system through a secondary load controller (electric
boiler). The analysis considered an average diesel fuel price of $5.27 per gallon for the
projected 20 year project life. The modeling assumptions and results of V3’s analysis are
presented in Appendix B.
V3 inserted the power generation and fuel consumption results from the HOMER modeling
into the economic modeling program developed by the Institute for Social and Economic
Research (ISER). AEA uses the ISER economic model as the standard approach for scoring
wind project design and construction grant applications. The ISER model considers the capital
cost of construction and annual cost of operating and maintaining the wind turbines and
weighs them against the benefit cost savings realized from the volume of displaced diesel fuel
required for power generation and heating public facilities. The analysis develops a
benefit/cost ratio that can be used to compare wind turbine alternatives. See V3’s economic
analysis results in Appendix B.
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6.2 ECONOMIC EVALUATION RESULTS
Table 4 below summarizes the findings of the economic evaluation for each turbine alternative.
Table 4: Economic Evaluation Summary
Alt
Annual
Wind
Generation
@ 80%
Availability
(kWh)
Wind
Energy
For Power
(kWh/yr)
Wind
Energy
For Heat
(kWh/yr)
Wind as %
Total
Power
Production
(%)
Wind as %
Total
Thermal
Production
(%)
Power
Generation:
Fuel
Displaced by
Wind Energy
(gal/yr)
Thermal
Generation:
Heating Fuel
Displaced by
Wind Energy
(gal/yr)
Benefit/ Cost
Ratio
1 1,347,679 1,240,655 107,024 28 2.3 93,634 2,736 0.91
2 1,579,760 1,443,036 136,724 32.5 3.0 108,908 3,495 0.74
3 1,390,849 1,261,189 129,660 28 2.8 95,184 3,314 1.03
*Source:Annual Energy Production data taken from V3 Energy’s November2013 Kaktovik Wind Diesel Analysis
7.0 PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE
Based on the findings of the site analysis, wind modeling, and economic evaluation, Alternative
3 is the preferred alternative for Kaktovik wind turbine development. This alternative consists
of construction of (3) Vestas V27 turbines at Kaktovik Site 2. This turbine configuration has a
675 kW rated generation capacity, which exceeds the current average electrical load for
Kaktovik. The economic evaluation above assumes that the turbine operates at 80% turbine
availability without exceeding rated energy output levels. However, for better system
performance, the turbines should be pitch controled to modulate energy output to a level that
provides medium penetration to the Kaktovik grid and adequate excess energy to meet
recovered heat demands. The recommended energy output level will be determined during
final design of the control system.
8.0 GEOTECHNICAL REVIEW
HDL performed a geotechnical review of the proposed tower locations based on available bore
logs and previously completed geotechnical studies on Barter Island. The geotechnical review
titled “Geotechnical Review and Feasibility Study for Kaktovik Wind Turbines” is included in
Appendix F. The purpose of the review was to develop conceptual foundation reccomendations
to be used for preliminary capital cost estimates for each alternative. Soil conditions at all
three sites are anticipated to include an organic layer of varying depths above sands and silts
with varying amounts of gravels. At depths of approximately 35 to 40 feet, we expect the soils
to transition to silt or lean clay. The soils are cold (below 20 degrees F) permafrost with the
active layer depth (seasonal thaw depth) in the range of four to five feet, but will likely be
deeper in areas with disturbed surface vegetation. Accordingly, the design for the site should
keep the underlying permafrost frozen using such methods as insulation and/or thermosiphons.
Creep may occur if the permafrost is allowed to thaw. The foundation recommendations
described in the alternatives presented in Section 5 consist of deep pile foundations that are
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November 12, 2013 18
frozen back into the permafrost. The foundations are consistent with the preliminary
recommendations of the Geotechnical Review.
9.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
9.1 HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL: ALASKA STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
(SHPO)
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires project proponents receiving
federal funds or requiring federal permits to consider the effects of their actions on properties
in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. Compliance with Section
106 requires consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) and the North
Slope Borough (NSB) Inupiat History, Language, and Culture (IHLC) Division if there is a potential
adverse effect to historic properties.
According to prior cultural resource assessments conducted in the vicinity of the project, there
are seven known cultural resources on Barter Island. None of the known resources are in the
immediate vicinity of any of the proposed site alternatives; however a field survey may be
needed to determine the potential for undiscovered sites to exist.
9.2 WETLANDS AND WATERS OF THE U.S.: U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS (USACE)
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires a permit for placement of fill in wetlands and
waters of the United States.
All of the undeveloped land on Barter Island is classified as wetland and is subject to USACE
jurisdiction. Nationwide Permit (NWP) 51 for Land Based Renewable Energy Generation
Facilities authorizes discharge of fill materials for wind tower construction if loss of wetlands
does not exceed one half acre. The permit also covers utility lines, roads, and parking lots
within the wind generation facility. Submittal requirements for NWP 51 include a Pre
Construction Notification. Access roads and transmission lines not within the facility and used
to connect the facility to existing infrastructure require separate permitting. NWP 12 (Utility
lines) and 14 (Linear transportation) may be used for this purpose if loss of wetlands does not
exceed one half acre for each permit type.
The USACE recommends that wetlands delineations be completed within the designated
growing season for specific regions. Barter Island is located within Alaska’s Arctic Coastal Plain
ecoregion, which has a growing season that begins on June 20th and ends on September 18th.
9.3 FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION (FAA)
Based on preliminary review of the online Obstruction Evaluation/Airport Airspace Analysis
(OEAAA) tool, all sites under consideration exceed CFR Title 14 Part 77 Notice Criteria for slope
ratio. Part 77 regulations require an airspace study and filing Form 7460 1 for the proposed
tower locations to determine the impacts to the national airspace system. Preliminary analysis
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November 12, 2013 19
was conducted to select locations and turbine heights that would minimize impacts to airspace.
Preliminary informal consultation with the FAA Flight Procedures Office
(Hattenburg/Christiansen) concerning the proposed obstructions has occurred. Further
coordination will be required and may include modifications to the published traffic procedures
at the Kaktovik Airport to keep patterning aircraft south of the airport and away from the
proposed tower locations. FAA permit applications for the recommended alternative were
submitted on October 3, 2013.
9.4 BIOTIC RESOURCES AND FEDERALLY LISTED THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES:
UNITED STATES FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS)
According to preliminary coordination with the USFWS, the spectacled eider is likely the only
species of concern for this project. The project will require formal Endangered Species Act (ESA)
Section 7 Consultation. This would include an avian field survey, biological assessment, and
biological opinion from the USFWS. The USFWS will also likely advise maintaining a voluntary
polar bear monitoring plan.
USFWS recommends time periods for avoiding vegetation clearing for regions throughout
Alaska. For northern regions, the following avoidance periods apply:
Shrub and Open Habitat – June 1st through July 25th (except in habitat that supports
black scoter)
Black scoter habitat – June 1st through August 10
th
9.5 CONTAMINATED SITES, SPILLS, AND UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS
A search of the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation’s (ADEC) contaminated sites
database revealed no contaminated sites within one mile of any of the sites considered.
9.6 ANADROMOUS FISH STREAMS
According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) Anadromous Waters Catalog,
there are no cataloged anadromous streams located on Barter Island.
9.7 STATE REFUGES, CRITICAL HABITAT AREAS AND SANCTUARIES
A review of the ADF&G’s publication regarding State of Alaska Refuges, Critical Habitat Areas,
and Sanctuaries, found that no such areas are located in the vicinity of any of the sites
considered.
9.8 LAND OWNERSHIP
All sites are located on land owned by the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation. Negotiations with the
Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation will be required for site control.
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9.9 SUBSISTENCE ACTIVITIES
Coordination with Kaktovik community members will be needed to ensure there is little to no
disruption of hunting and harvesting activities from wind farm development. Preliminary
discussions with community members indicate that Site 3 is used for subsistence waterfowl
hunting. The final location of the towers will be coordinated with the community during design
to minimize impacts to subsistence activities.
9.10 AIR QUALITY
According to Alaska Administrative Code (AAC) 18 AAC 50, the community of Kaktovik is
considered a Class II area. As such, there are designated maximum allowable increases for
particulate matter 10 (PM 10) micrometers or less in size, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide.
Activities in these areas must operate in such a way that they do not exceed listed air quality
controls for these compounds. The nature and extent of the proposed project is not likely to
increase emissions or contribute to a violation of an ambient air quality standard or cause a
maximum allowable increase for a Class II area.
9.11 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT REVIEW (NEPA)
An Environmental Review (ER) document will be required if federal funding is used for
construction of the wind turbine project. Similar to an Environmental Assessment (EA), an ER
will provide an assessment of potential environmental impacts and identify avoidance,
minimization, and mitigation measures. A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)
determination by the funding agency will beneeded.
9.12 ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Table 5 below summarizes environmental data and permit requirements for development of
wind turbines on each site investigated.
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Table 5: Environmental Summary Table
Site 1 Site 2 Site 3
Historic and
Archaeological
Low potential for significant cultural sites; SHPO and IHLC review required; field
survey may be required.
Wetlands Wetlands delineation may be required; NWP 12, 14, & 51 if wetlands impacted and
impacts less than ½ acre; Individual permit if impacts greater than ½ acre.
Federal Aviation
Administration
Exceeds Title 14 Part 77 Notice Criteria for slope ratio and requires airspace
study/7460 1; modifications to published traffic procedures
Threatened &
Endangered Species
Avian survey and formal ESA Section 7 Consultation required.
Contaminated Sites None located near project areas
AnadromousFish Streams None located near project areas
State Refuges, Critical
Habitat, and Sanctuaries
None located near project areas
Land Ownership Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation.
Subsistence
NSB will coordinate with
communities to identify
areas important to
subsistence activities.
Within subsistence waterfowl hunting area.
Air Quality
Project not likely to increase emissions, contribute to a violation of ambient air
quality standards, or cause maximum allowable increases for Pm 10 and nitrogen
and sulfur dioxide.
National Environmental
Policy Act
USACE lead federal agency; NEPA review conducted during USACE permit
evaluation.
Permitting Recommendations
1. Initiate Section 106 consultation for preferred site, in accordance with the National
Historic Preservation Act as soon as possible to determine whether a cultural resource
field survey is necessary.
2. File FAA form 7460 1 for wind towers at least 45 days prior to construction.
3. Perform wetlands delineation.
4. Initiate consultation with USFWS to identify potential effects at the preferred site to
threatened or endangered species and possible mitigation.
5. Schedule vegetation clearing activities outside appropriate time periods of avoidance,
per the USFWS recommendations.
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10.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The high cost of diesel fuel and strong wind resource on Barter Island makes wind power an
attractive component of NSB’s electrical power generation system for Kaktovik. The wind site
investigation and subsequent wind modeling analysis determined that Site 2 has a Class 5/6
wind resource and is well suited for wind power generation. Economic evaluation of the
turbine alternatives presented in this report resulted in a preferred turbine configuration of
three Vestas V27 turbines installed at Site 2. The economic evaluation projected that this
preferred alternative will contribute to approximately 28% of yearly power production and will
offset approximately 37,136 gallons of fuel for power generation and 3,314 gallons of heating
oil per year. Wind power could provide approximately 2.8% of the energy needed for heat
recovery. Integration of the wind power into the diesel power plant will require a large
secondary load controller to prevent overloading the grid with excess energy and tripping the
generators offline.
The following actions are recommended to continue the progress of wind turbine development
in Kaktovik:
Recommendations
1. Conduct a bird hazard study.
2. Begin discussions with the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation for site control and access rights to
Kaktovik Site 2.
3. Consult with Kaktovik community leaders to minimize the impacts to subsistence activities
from a wind project development at Site 2.
4. Proceed with permitting per the permitting recommendations in Section 9.
5. Once the site is confirmed, perform a site specific geotechnical investigation of the proposed
turbine location.
6. Incorporate a secondary load controller and wind energy integration controls into the power
plant design.
7. If complications resulting from site control, permitting, or the geotechnical investigation
make development of Kaktovik Site 2 not feasible, relocate the proposed wind turbine
project to Site 1 and reinitiate the actions stated above.
8. Perform final design of the preferred alternative and apply for construction grant funds.
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11.0 REFERENCES
Alaska Community Database, Community Information Summaries (CIS)
http://www.commerce.state.ak.us/dca/commdb/CIS.cfm?Comm_Boro_Name=Kaktovik
Western Regional Climate Center,http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/CLIMATEDATA.html.
Alaska Energy Authority (AEA). 2012. Statistical Report of the Power Cost Equalization Program,
Fiscal Year 2012. Twenty Third Edition. April 2012.
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC). 18 AAC 50 Air Quality Control: As
Amended through August 1, 2012.
http://dec.alaska.gov/commish/regulations/pdfs/18%20AAC%2050.pdf.
ADEC. Division of Spill Prevention and Response.
http://dec.alaska.gov/applications/spar/CSPSearch/results.asp.
North Slope Borough Village Heat Recovery Project Analysis Report. February 10, 2010.
Alaska Department of Fish & Game (ADF&G). Wildlife Action Plan Section IIIB: Alaska’s 32
Ecoregions
http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static/species/wildlife_action_plan/section3b.pdf.
ADF&G. Anadromous Waters Catalog. http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/sf/SARR/AWC/.
ADF&G. Refuges, Sanctuaries, Critical Habitat Areas and Wildlife Refuges.
http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=protectedareas.locator. .
ADNR. Division of Special Management Lands.
http://www.navmaps.alaska.gov/specialmanagementlands/.
FAA. Obstruction Evaluation/Airport Airspace Analysis (OE/AAA).
https://oeaaa.faa.gov/oeaaa/external/portal.jsp012.
USACE. Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Alaska
Region (Version 2.0).
http://www.usace.army.mil/Portals/2/docs/civilworks/regulatory/reg_supp/erdc el_tr
07 24.pdf.
USFWS. United States Fish and Wildlife Service Endangered Species: Listed and Candidate
Species in Alaska, Spectacled Eider (Somateria fischeri).
http://alaska.fws.gov/fisheries/endangered/species/spectacled_eider.htm.
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http://alaska.fws.gov/fisheries/fieldoffice/anchorage/pdf/vegetation_clearing.pdf.
USFWS. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wetlands Inventory.
http://107.20.228.18/Wetlands/WetlandsMapper.html# .
V3 Energy. Kaktovik Wind Diesel Feasibility Analysis. September 12, 2012.