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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-09-21 AEA Agenda and docs 813 West Northern Lights Boulevard, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 T 907.771.3000 Toll Free 888.300.8534 F 907.771.3044 REDUCING THE COST OF ENERGY IN ALASKA AKENERGYAUTHORITY.ORG Alaska Energy Authority Board Meeting Thursday September 21, 2023 8:30 AM AGENDA Dial 1 (888) 585-9008 and enter code 212-753-619# Public comment guidelines are below. 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL BOARD MEMBERS 3. AGENDA APPROVAL 4. PRIOR MINUTES – August 2, 2023 5. PUBLIC COMMENTS (2 minutes per person) see call in number above 6. NEW BUSINESS - None 7. OLD BUSINESS - None 8. DIRECTOR COMMENTS A. Responses to Board Questions from September Board Meeting B. Governor’s State Energy Security Task Force Update (August Meetings) C. Railbelt Owned Assets Update D. Dixon Diversion Project E. Hydro Update F. IIJA / IRA Grant Funding Update G. Community Outreach H. Articles of Interest I. Next Regularly Scheduled AEA Board Meeting Wednesday, October 25, 2023 9. EXECUTIVE SESSION – To discuss confidential financial matters, the immediate knowledge of which would have an adverse effect on Alaska Energy Authority: • FY25 budget update • Owned Assets Strategic Review 10. BOARD COMMENTS 11. ADJOURNMENT Public Comment Guidelines Members of the public who wish to provide written comments, please email your comments to publiccomment@akenergyauthority.org by no later than 4 p.m. on the day before the meeting, so they can be shared with board members prior to the meeting. On the meeting day, callers will enter the teleconference muted. After board roll call and agenda approval, we will ask callers to press *9 on their phones if they wish to make a public comment. This will initiate the hand-raising function. We will unmute callers individually in the order the calls were received. When an individual is unmuted, you will hear, “It is now your turn to speak.” Please identify yourself and make your public comments. 813 W Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503  Phone: (907) 771-3000  Fax: (907) 771-3044  Email: info@akenergyauthority.org REDUCING THE COST OF ENERGY IN ALASKA AKENERGYAUTHORITY.ORG Alaska Energy Authority DRAFT BOARD MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, August 2, 2023 Anchorage, Alaska 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Pruhs called the meeting of the Alaska Energy Authority to order on August 2, 2023, at 8:31 am. A quorum was established. 2. ROLL CALL BOARD MEMBERS Members present: Chair Dana Pruhs (Public Member); Vice-Chair Bill Kendig (Public Member); Albert Fogle (Public Member); Julie Sande (Commissioner DCCED); Adam Crum (Commissioner DOR); Bill Vivlamore (Public Member); and Randy Eledge (Public Member). 3. AGENDA APPROVAL Mr. Eledge requested to amend the agenda as follows: Item J. Executive Session to discuss Item K; Item K. Cook Inlet Gas Supply; Item L. National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan Update; Item M. Community Outreach; Item N. Articles of Interest; and Item O. Next Regularly Scheduled AEA Board Meeting, Thursday, September 21, 2023. MOTION: A motion was made by Mr. Fogle to approve the agenda, including the friendly amendments. Motion seconded by Mr. Vivlamore. The motion to approve the agenda, including the friendly amendments, passed without objection. 4. PRIOR MINUTES – June 21, 2023 MOTION: A motion was made by Vice-Chair Kendig to approve the prior minutes of June 21, 2023. Motion seconded by Mr. Fogle. Mr. Eledge asked if “Homer Rebate Allocation” on page three should be “Home Rebate Allocation.” Curtis Thayer, Executive Director and Secretary-Treasurer, agreed. Jennifer Bertolini, AEA, indicated that the typographical error will be corrected. There was no objection. The motion to approve the minutes of June 21, 2023, as corrected, passed without objection. 5. PUBLIC COMMENTS (2 minutes per person) There were no members of the public online or in-person who requested to comment. Alaska Energy Authority Page 2 of 12 6. NEW BUSINESS – None 7. OLD BUSINESS - None 8. DIRECTOR COMMENTS A. Responses to Board Questions from June Board Meeting Mr. Thayer indicated that page 11 of the packet contains answers to the three Board questions. Question 1 was from Chair Pruhs regarding insurance on Bradley Lake, including the comparative change of the project value and premiums from FY23 to FY24. Per the arrangement, the insurance premium is paid for by the utilities. Chair Pruhs inquired as to the method used to appraise the project value from $463 million to $536 million. Mr. Thayer requested Bryan Carey, AEA, provide additional information. Mr. Carey discussed that the original cost of Bradley was $328 million. The project value replacement costs shown exclude items such as the road, the airfield, and design tech work. He noted that the Handy-Whitman Index is used by the insurance industry for construction values for power plants. The construction costs over the last year have escalated by approximately 15%. Mr. Carey advised that the insurance premiums increased approximately 19% over the last year. Mr. Fogle asked if the project value and premiums are inclusive of Battle Creek. Mr. Carey agreed. Chair Pruhs asked if an estimate can be provided to confirm the value amount in today’s pricing. He noted that costs are more expensive now. Chair Pruhs asked if the amount shown is the replacement value cost. Mr. Carey explained that over the next couple of years, a contractor will conduct a full value assessment of the project. He noted that the policy insures for the probable maximum loss on the property from a 500-year earthquake, rather than the entire project value. An independent consultant derived the current probable maximum loss at approximately $60 million. Chair Pruhs asked Mr. Thayer to discuss the role of the Bradley Lake Management Committee (BPMC) in this process. Mr. Thayer explained that the BPMC uses the insurance brokerage firm Parker, Smith & Feek. The information is reviewed by the Engineering Committee and Finance Committee before it is forwarded to the BPMC. Mr. Thayer discussed the steep increase in premiums that occurred two years ago. He noted that fewer companies offer insurance coverage in this market because of recent losses and risks in areas around the world outside of Alaska. Chair Pruhs requested additional information regarding the utilities’ obligations for payment after an insurance triggering event. Mr. Thayer explained that the utilities follow the Power Sales Agreement with regard to payment for produced power. There is no debt on Bradley Lake. He discussed that the insurance listed is in addition to the State’s self-insurance for State-owned assets, which will bring the asset back online after an event. The process is managed by the Division of Risk Management within the Department of Administration. Alaska Energy Authority Page 3 of 12 Chair Pruhs discussed a scenario that included an insurance triggering event at Bradley Lake and asked if the State’s self-insurance covers costs beyond the current maximum probable loss amount of $60 million. Mr. Carey explained that the State previously self-insured Bradley Lake and has since transitioned away from that. Mr. Carey discussed that Bradley Lake is built to handle an earthquake equivalent to the Good Friday Earthquake event. The current policy contains a $10 million deductible that the utilities would pay first and then the primary and secondary insurance carriers would pay the next $50 million. Mr. Carey explained that if a Magnitude 9 earthquake occurred and the damage exceeded $60 million, it would still be in the utilities’ best interest to repair the existing facility, rather than building a new power plant for $400 million or $500 million. Chair Pruhs noted that Bradley Lake is AEA’s biggest asset. He requested that the Board is provided with additional information from the BPMC and Division of Risk Management, Department of Administration regarding the risks and the responses to triggering events. Chair Pruhs stated that the annual premium of $1 million is for $50 million of coverage. Mr. Carey noted that Risk Management also reviews the insurance policies on an annual basis and provides suggestions. Mr. Thayer discussed Question 2 regarding the benefits of upgrading the transmission line from 115 kV to 230 kV without the Dixon Diversion Project. There were no additional questions or comments. Mr. Thayer discussed Mr. Eledge’s Question 3 regarding CEA’s schedule for major transmission upgrades. The intent is to keep the outage duration on the Southern intertie at approximately 80 days. Mr. Eledge asked if all of the transmission lines listed will be upgraded to 230 kV. Mr. Carey explained that the line upgrades will be built out to 230 kV, but will not be energized initially to 230 kV. After the lines are upgraded to 230 kV, the different area transformers will be changed over and then the line can be energized to 230 kV. Chair Pruhs commented that Bradley Lake power was initially a secondary source to gas-powered generation. He asked if Bradley Lake power would become the primary source after the upgrades occur. Mr. Thayer explained that the gas market has changed dramatically within the last 10 years. The primary sources are utilizing hydro and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). There were no additional questions. B. Governor’s State Energy Security Task Force Update Mr. Thayer provided the update on the Governor’s Alaska Energy Security Task Force (AESTF). The agenda and PowerPoint for their most recent meeting is included in the Board packet, as well as additional information regarding the Task Force’s perspective on a comprehensive statewide energy plan, energy priorities, and next steps. Mr. Thayer gave an overview of the six subcommittees and highlighted their specific purposes, deliverables, and responsibilities. Mr. Thayer noted that he is on meeting calls four to five times a week helping to coordinate the efforts. The AESTF is comprised of 15 members and 5 Ex Officio members, and will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, August 8, 2023. The AESTF has contracted with Black & Veatch to provide analysis and scenarios to make recommendations. Mr. Thayer explained that Governor Dunleavy would Alaska Energy Authority Page 4 of 12 like at least three recommendations from each of the subcommittees to reach the moonshot goal within the Administrative Order (AO) of 10-cent power. Public comments will be received and reviewed, and the final deliverable report is expected for November 17, 2023. Mr. Thayer discussed that the national average is 16-cent power and the Railbelt average is 20-cent power. He explained that there are fundamental changes and transmission upgrades that must occur to the Railbelt in order to reach 10-cent power. Mr. Thayer explained that after the recommendations are submitted, Governor Dunleavy will decide on which recommendations to implement and which to seek legislative action. Chair Pruhs inquired as to the funding source for the AESTF. Mr. Thayer noted the Governor’s Office has a contract with Black & Veatch, the University of Alaska is helping to fund some activities, and a federal State Energy Plan (SEP) grant of $300,000 was received. Mr. Eledge asked about the purpose of the illustration shown on page 26 of the PowerPoint. Mr. Thayer explained that the Latin language serves as a placeholder to show the subcommittee how their information will be presented with regard to the priorities, strategies, and actions for the short-term, mid-term, and long-term direction. There were no additional questions. C. Federal Funding Presentation Mr. Thayer introduced Karen Bell, AEA Manager of Planning, to discuss the Federal Funding Opportunities presentation. Ms. Bell noted the listing of acronyms from the Inflation Reduction ACT (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The acronyms are used frequently within the legislation and within additional published information on AEA’s website. Ms. Bell informed that the first category of discussion will include formula allocations for the State of Alaska and competitive grants that have been awarded. She discussed slide 4 contains information regarding the Home Energy and High Efficiency Rebate programs authorized through the IRA. AEA is collaborating with Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) to distribute the $74 million of funding allocation. The application due date is in January of 2024, and distribution will occur later that year. Ms. Bell discussed an additional $1.3 million allocation to the State of Alaska for energy auditor training, which will supplement the two programs to ensure a workforce is positioned to implement the program. Ms. Bell reviewed the details of the Statewide Grid Resilience and Reliability IIJA formula grant, often referred to as 40101(d), which authorizes $60 million over five years to provide funding to increase grid resilience against disruptive events. AEA applied for the first two years of funding of $22.2 million. AEA anticipates posting solicitations to subaward the funding, which requires a 15% State match and a 33% small utility match per award. Mr. Fogle asked when the 40101(d) program will go into effect. Ms. Bell informed that the application was submitted in April 2023. The Department of Energy (DOE) is processing applications on a rolling basis and AEA is awaiting a response. Ms. Bell discussed the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. The State of Alaska was allocated approximately $52 million over five years to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging in the Alaska Energy Authority Page 5 of 12 state. The State has been awarded $19 million of that funding. Recently, AEA, in coordination with Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) recently submitted an update to its NEVI Plan per regulation. Ms. Bell reviewed the information regarding the Black Rapids Training Site (BRTS) grant. AEA partnered with Golden Valley Electric Association (GVEA) to receive the $12.7 million grant to extend a transmission line 34 miles along the Richardson Highway to the BTRS. No State match is required for this program. In addition to this program, AEA partnered with GVEA and submitted a $10 million grant proposal to Department of Defense (DOD) for upgrades at Eielson Air Force Base. Staff is awaiting a response this week that will indicate if an invitation to apply for funding has been extended. Chair Pruhs requested confirmation that there is no GVEA or Cordova Electric transmission between Glennallen and Delta. Mr. Thayer agreed. He noted that there are lines from Valdez to Glennallen, and that GVEA reaches into Delta. Chair Pruhs inquired regarding transmission from Palmer to Glennallen. Mr. Thayer noted there is not a connected grid from the Mat-Su area to Glennallen. He believes the Matanuska Electric Association (MEA) territory extends to the Sutton area, and is commonly referred to as the Roadbelt. Mr. Thayer discussed routing considerations and redundancies for the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program. There is a line from the Mat-Su to Fairbanks through Healy. The option of having a secondary line to Glennallen, Tok, Delta, and then back to Fairbanks is being studied. One of the challenges is there is not necessarily the load to operationally transmit the power for a 230 kV line. Vice-Chair Kendig requested Mr. Thayer provide members with the transmission line maps that have been created by Brian Hickey. Mr. Thayer agreed. Ms. Bell continued the presentation and discussed the details of the Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund (EERLF). Alaska received a formula allocation of approximately $4.6 million to capitalize a revolving loan fund for energy efficiency retrofits. AEA is partnering with AHFC to administer the funds through an existing program to expand this benefit. Ms. Bell reviewed the $2.9 million allocation for the SEP, which includes funding for the AESTF discussed earlier and other energy planning, training and workforce development, and grip planning. Ms. Bell reviewed that AEA was awarded funding in the amount of approximately $1.7 million for the EV Charging Equipment competitive grant. The funding will be used to deploy EV charging in underserved communities. AEA is working with project partners to identify the underserved communities and to distribute the funding. Ms. Bell discussed that AEA recently applied for the Energy Efficiency conservation Block Grant (EECBG), which has a formula allocation of $1.6 million. The program is designed to assist states and local governments in implementing strategies to reduce energy use, reduce fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency. Once the funding is received, AEA anticipates posting a solicitation for applications. No match is required. Ms. Bell discussed the next section of the presentation reviews the competitive funding applications that have been submitted, and are awaiting determination. Chair Pruhs asked for AEA’s success rate for similar competitive funding applications. Mr. Thayer explained that these competitive applications are from the Infrastructure Bill and there is $7.5 Alaska Energy Authority Page 6 of 12 billion available. The minimum application funding amount was $250 million. Alaska is competing against the other states and various projects. Mr. Thayer commented that the GRIP III applications likely have the slimmest prospect because the requested amount is $661 million. He noted that the GRIP program is brand new, and no funding has been awarded yet. Mr. Thayer discussed that pre-applications are initially submitted, reviewed, and if selected to apply for funding, then the full application is completed. He stated that the selection rate has been approximately 50%. AEA’s pre-application was selected to submit the full application. Ms. Bell reviewed the four competitive grants; Railbelt Backbone Reconstruction Project, Battery Energy Storage Project, Railbelt Innovation Resiliency Project, and Rural Alaska Microgrid Transformation. The first two projects were applied for with the Railbelt utilities, and the last two projects were applied for with AEA as the lead. Each of the grants requires an equivalent match over the course of eight years. Ms. Bell reviewed the Fixed Grant Award Program within the Energy Improvements in Rural and Remote Areas (ERA) Program. The program is intended to serve communities that have 10,000 people or fewer, and will increase resilience, reliability, and affordability. Awards will be between $500,000 and $5 million. No match is required for this program, and is accessible for communities and nonprofits that sometimes struggle to find a match to apply for the program. AEA has submitted a pre-application for the maximum of $5 million for two community projects in Chefornak and Kipnuk. Ms. Bell discussed that the final category of federal funding opportunities is within the IRA. These are high-level opportunities. The notices of funding are still being released. No applications have been submitted to-date. Ms. Bell reviewed the clean energy national funding opportunities from the IRA. She showed a list of programs and funding amounts. The largest funding availability is $270 million through the Energy Tax Credits available to energy producers, consumers, and commercial buildings. There are two new United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs for rural utility services; Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) Program and New ERA. They are both open for letters of interest. PACE is a loan program with loan forgiveness varying between 20% and 60%, depending on the application entity type. A broad range of applicants are eligible to apply. The New ERA program is specific to electric co-ops serving predominantly rural areas. It is a grant, loan, and loan modification program. Ms. Bell reviewed the specifics listed in the presentation. Mr. Fogle asked if AEA is working with any rural communities to apply for these types of USDA programs. Ms. Bell indicated that she is not currently aware of any. Information has been published on the website and has been distributed through email lists. Mr. Thayer indicated that AEA’s goal is to disseminate the information. The State has funded the Navigator Program that will help rural communities identify and apply for these types of funding programs. This is in addition to the Alaska Municipal League, which partners with AEA to assist. The rural communities consisting of 225 Tribes have been taking the lead on these funding opportunities. Ms. Bell continued the presentation reviewing other potential IRA State clean energy competitive grant opportunities. Staff is awaiting the issuance of additional funding opportunity information. She discussed the most recent updates. Within the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund program, AEA and AHFC have partnered and submitted a notice of intent to Environmental Protection Alaska Energy Authority Page 7 of 12 Agency (EPA) for the Solar for All competition, requesting $100 million for expansion of community and rooftop solar expansion. The application is due in September. No match is required for the program. Ms. Bell stated that no funding announcements have been made for the Clean Heavy Duty Vehicle program or its Clean Ports sister program. Ms. Bell noted that the Climate Pollution Reduction Fund competitive grant has been planned by Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The competitive portion of the grant is not yet open. The funding will assist states and local governments in climate pollution reduction strategies. Ms. Bell highlighted the IRA Clean Energy Tax Incentives listed in the presentation and on AEA’s website. She gave the caveat that she is not a tax expert and the general information provided is not project specific. In addition to the base tax credits, the IRA includes bonus tax credits. Ms. Bell reviewed the listing within the presentation. Ms. Bell discussed the elective pay option authorized through the IRA. Interim guidance was released in June, and allows entities that would otherwise not be able to claim a tax credit because they do not file taxes, to receive Clean Energy Tax Credits. Ms. Bell noted the list of eligible elective pay entities and the respective eligible tax credits. Mr. Fogle asked if AEA could apply for the elective pay tax credits under a State or political subdivision eligibility. Mr. Thayer agreed that is a possibility. Mr. Eledge expressed appreciation to Ms. Bell for the presentation. He asked how the rebate percentage is calculated for the Home Energy and High Efficiency Rebates. Ms. Bell noted that the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate for eligible applicants is based on an income level criterion. Ms. Bell will verify and provide the criterion for the Home Efficiency Rebate, but believes it is based on certain activities and related caps per activity. There were no additional questions. D. Audit Update Mr. Thayer requested Clay Christian, AEA and AIDEA CFO, to provide the verbal Audit Update. Mr. Christian informed that the auditors have been engaged with interim fieldwork. The year-end fieldwork is on schedule to begin at the end of August, with a keen focus on delivering the Audit Report on time. Notifications have been sent to others in the State regarding what information is needed and the expected timeline in which to receive that information. Mr. Fogle asked for the expected date that the Board will be able to review the audited financials and the Audit Report. Mr. Christian discussed that the goal is to have the report in advance of the October 25, 2023 meeting. There were no additional questions. E. AEA Budget Update Mr. Thayer gave an overview of the current schedule of deliverables for the AIDEA and AEA State Budget Process included in the Board packet. He noted that Office of Management & Budget (OMB) has not yet provided budget scenarios. The budget development team has met and identified operating and capital budget requests based on known federal receipt authority Alaska Energy Authority Page 8 of 12 funding. Chair Pruhs asked what the normal timeframe is that OMB provides AEA with the possible scenarios. Mr. Thayer indicated they usually have the scenarios by now. Chair Pruhs asked if it is prudent to contact OMB and inquire about the scenarios. Mr. Thayer explained that every department in the State and all of the Commissioners are awaiting and anticipating the scenarios from OMB. Chair Pruhs asked Commissioner Sande and Commissioner Crum if they have any idea when the OMB will release the scenarios. Commissioner Sande indicated that she does not have any information. Commissioner Crum indicated that the expectation was for information to be released by the end of July. Mr. Thayer stated that it is a work in progress. Mr. Fogle expressed appreciation to Mr. Thayer for sharing the calendar of events for the annual budget process. He asked if it is possible to discuss the AEA budget in executive session during either the September or the October Board meeting. Mr. Thayer agreed. Commissioner Sande asked if it would be best to share the scenarios through email, rather than waiting until the next Board meeting. Chair Pruhs indicated that Mr. Thayer and staff need the details of the scenarios as soon as they are available. A member asked if the AESTF will continue beyond the November recommendation timeline and if AEA will need to include a budget line item for FY25. Mr. Thayer expects that some form of the AESTF will continue beyond the recommendation period because of the actionable items that the Legislature will most likely need to address. This will connect to Phase 2 or Phase 3 of an energy plan. Funding is provided by the SEP, and AEA is not anticipating that a budget item is needed at this point. That decision will be made by the Governor. Mr. Thayer noted that this is a priority for the Governor, and he has three years remaining in his term. The AESTF will make the recommendations. Governor Dunleavy and the Legislature will drive the future policy. There were no additional questions. F. Power Cost Equalization Update (PCE) Mr. Thayer explained that the letter included in the packet is received annually and provides the amount that is available for PCE for the following year. This is based on the earnings. The market value of the PCE endowment is approximately $1 billion. The earnings for the previous closed fiscal year were $88 million. The year before this, the losses were over $100 million. The PCE program cost is approximately $48 million and is within the operating budget. He explained the statutory waterfall effect and formula, in which the next $30 million is for community assistance in Rural Alaska, and then a percentage can be utilized for renewable energy projects, powerhouses and bulk fuel. Mr. Thayer discussed that the Legislature changed the PCE endowment management to the Permanent Fund. Also included in the packet is the PCE Program Management Report. Mr. Thayer noted that the Legislature provided an additional accounting technician for PCE. This will be the first time in several years that PCE will be fully staffed. The pay range was increased, which assisted in the ability to attract more candidates. Alaska Energy Authority Page 9 of 12 Vice-Chair Kendig asked for more information regarding the Aniak issue. Mr. Thayer explained that the Aniak issue is solely an administrative issue with Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA). The Aniak utility is privately owned, and he believes that there was mismanagement early in the process regarding the accounting of their costs that did not include true-ups. The customers were then imposed with outrageous bills because the proper accounting had not occurred earlier in the process. Chair Pruhs requested additional information regarding the procedures that are implemented after communities are suspended. Mr. Thayer discussed that the utility is suspended by RCA. AEA provides training and assistance to try to get the communities back in the program. The PCE is paid to those who are current with their filings. Mr. Thayer asked Tim Sandstrom, AEA, to discuss the process further. Mr. Sandstrom explained that AEA works with the communities to ensure that their reporting requirements are submitted and received by RCA, so that the PCE payment suspension can be lifted. The payment look-back period is only one month. Chair Pruhs asked if there were any ramifications to the end users in the community. Mr. Sandstrom agreed, and noted that the PCE amount varies from 25 cents to 70 cents, which the consumer will then have to pay. He explained that suspensions are only from the PCE payments, and not suspensions to the production of power. G. Denali Commission Update Mr. Thayer highlighted the Denali Commission awards included in the packet. A member commented on the award to Tuluksak for their bulk fuel. He asked if this is connected to their generation system. Mr. Thayer asked Rebecca Garrett to respond. Ms. Garrett stated that the award was a competitive award for a maintenance and improvement (M&I) bulk fuel project. H. Rural Programs Update Mr. Thayer discussed Rural Programs & Projects highlights, including the various training opportunities, and the upgrades to both the rural power systems and to bulk fuel. He requested Ms. Garrett give a high-level synopsis of the current issue of one of the AEA projects becoming comingled with another project that is outside of AEA. Ms. Garrett discussed that there is a State Trooper theft report on one of the project sites. The project agreed to share a barge landing with another ongoing project in the community and theft of AEA electrical supply project materials occurred. The theft will not prevent the project from receiving fuel this fall. However, the ultimate cost of time and money is unknown at this point. Some of the items stolen had long lead times. Chair Pruhs asked if the State Troopers are in the process of solving the theft. Ms. Garrett indicated that there is ample evidence against the other contractor, and the process is ongoing. She reiterated that this was an unfortunate incident. There were no other questions. I. Grant Funding Pre-applications: i. Eielson AFB Essential Upgrades Grant Proposal ii. Kipnuk and Chefornak Memo Alaska Energy Authority Page 10 of 12 Mr. Thayer discussed the two pre-applications mentioned previously in the meeting. The pre-applications are included in the Board packet. K. Cook Inlet Gas Supply Mr. Thayer stated that the Cook Inlet Gas Supply information begins on page 257 of the packet. There has not been much movement on this item, other than Enstar’s presentation given to RCA and to the AESTF regarding the utility assessment of options for Cook Inlet. Mr. Eledge complimented the extensive information provided on the Cook Inlet gas supply issue. He noted that he saw only one comment that addressed options to reduce the amount of energy used. He believes it is prudent to identify those options, including the Home Energy Efficiency Rebate program. Mr. Eledge discussed that the gas supply issue will be difficult to overcome, and concerted efforts should focus on conservation. Mr. Eledge commented that Enstar’s contract with Hilcorp expires in 2033. In the event that gas becomes limited, he asked if there is a priority list indicating how the gas is distributed to serve homes or utilities or gas turbines. Mr. Thayer indicated that he does not know of a current priority list. Utilities have gas contracts that expire at different times. Hilcorp is honoring the gas contracts and is negotiating the extension of some gas contracts. Mr. Thayer explained that Hilcorp’s line of sight at this time does not include the ability to complete the future gas needs. He noted that included in the Board packet on page 285 is the Berkeley Research Group (BRG) study regarding options and the timing of options. AEA participated in some of the working group meetings. Mr. Thayer noted that Chugach Electric Association (CEA) conducted a similar study with BRG using Black and Veatch. The analysis was comparable, but the timing and cost may have differed. Research is ongoing to identify additional opportunities, including storage options. Mr. Eledge asked if any of the alternatives presented in the study are being pursued. Mr. Thayer explained that the study identifies the options and then the Railbelt utilities and Enstar work together to determine the most feasible alternatives coupled with the time estimates and cost estimates. AEA is not an active part of that process. Mr. Eledge asked if all of the proposed alternatives include increases to the rate payer. Mr. Thayer agreed. He listed a few of the alternatives included, but not limited to, a natural gas pipeline from the North Slope, a bullet line from the North Slope, imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Canada, shipping in LNG, trucking in LNG, and storage of LNG. Mr. Thayer explained that many of these options will take six to seven years to complete, if selected. Mr. Eledge noted that the study recommends that a decision is made by the end of 2023 to move forward. Mr. Thayer agreed that a plan selecting the top three options needs to be in place by the end of the year. There were no additional questions. M. Community Outreach Mr. Thayer noted the six-month look back of the community outreach schedule is included in the packet. He highlighted that the Board received an invitation to the Houston Solar Farm ribbon Alaska Energy Authority Page 11 of 12 cutting on August 29, 2023. Other upcoming events include hosting the Alaska Wind Working Group workshop, hosting the Hydro meeting, and hosting the regional meeting of the National Highway Association. Mr. Thayer discussed additional scheduled upcoming events. Chair Pruhs asked how staff decides which events to attend. Mr. Thayer discussed that staff has to attend the events coordinated by the staff, as well as events organized by the Governor. He noted that AEA and AIDEA will likely partner again and share booth space for Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) convention. There were no other questions. MOTION: A motion was made by Mr. Eledge to go into executive session to discuss matters listed in AS 42.62.310(c), which include matters the immediate knowledge of which would clearly have an adverse effect on the finances of AEA, personnel matters, matters which by law are required to be confidential, matters involving consideration of government records that are not required to be disclosed under the Alaska Public Records Act, as well as matters subject to attorney/client privilege. Each of these matters and the executive session are supported by the Open Meetings Act, AS 44.62.310(c)1, 3, and 4. Motion seconded by Mr. Vice-Chair Kendig. A roll call was taken, and the motion to go into executive session passed unanimously. J. Executive Session: 9:58 a.m. - Discuss Cook Inlet Gas Supply; discuss matters listed in AS 42.62.310(c), which include matters the immediate knowledge of which would clearly have an adverse effect on the finances of AEA, personnel matters, matters which by law are required to be confidential, matters involving consideration of government records that are not required to be disclosed under the Alaska Public Records Act, as well as matters subject to attorney/client privilege. Each of these matters and the executive session are supported by the Open Meetings Act, AS 44.62.310(c)1, 3, and 4 The Board reconvened its regular meeting at 11:09 am. Chair Pruhs advised that the Board did not take any action on matters discussed while in Executive Session. The session was limited to discussion of matters directly protected from public disclosures by the Open Meetings Act. L. National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan Update Mr. Thayer discussed that included in the packet is the updated NEVI Implementation Plan for FY24, which is required on an annual basis. The Plan has been submitted for approval. Extensive public comment was received over the summer. Changes and amendments were made. Mr. Thayer highlighted that the requirement for a certain size charger is only for the Alternative Fuel Corridor (AFC). Future phases have lower kW requirements which dramatically reduces the cost to the site host, and allows for additional installations. The higher kW chargers cost approximately $1 million each, and the lower kW chargers cost approximately $50,000 each. The Plan is a living document and will be augmented until the next iteration is provided. N. Articles of Interest – Included in the packet Alaska Energy Authority Page 12 of 12 Mr. Thayer discussed that the trip to Bradley Lake that was initially planned was cancelled due to weather. However, a Bradley Lake trip occurred last Wednesday, and included first-time visitors such as Senator Cathy Giessel, Senator Jesse Bjorkman, Representative Neal Foster, Representative Bryce Edgmon, Zack Fields (sp), and Commissioner Crum. Mr. Thayer noted that the day was beautiful and allowed for an aerial view of Dixon Diversion. He commented on the effectiveness of the trip and the heightened understanding that the attendees now have of Bradley Lake and Dixon Diversion. Mr. Thayer recommended that another educational trip with legislators to Bradley Lake should be scheduled in the fall. O. Next Regularly Scheduled AEA Board Meeting, Thursday, Sept 21, 2023 9. BOARD COMMENTS A member expressed appreciation to Mr. Thayer and staff for providing the extensive information that highlights the activities of the organization and the multiple tasks that are ongoing to help the public and to better AEA. Commissioner Crum commented on the first-rate tour of Bradley Lake provided by AEA. He noted that two of the House Finance Co-Chairs attended and were intrigued with the first-class and efficient operation. Commissioner Crum relayed that positive discussion occurred during the tour regarding other potential long-term power projects. He commended Mr. Thayer and staff for the organization of the value-added event. Mr. Thayer noted that the AEA employees conduct and submit an analysis of their individual departments. The information will be shared. Mr. Thayer stated that he and Mr. Sandstrom hosted a lunch forum for staff. Mr. Thayer highlighted that staff is a great group of dedicated and high- caliber people. Mr. Thayer discussed that Jim Mendenhall has been recently hired as a project manager and is working on special projects, such as Alaska Cargo and Cold Storage. Mr. Thayer informed that there will soon be a vacancy in the GIS position, as that employee has accepted a new position as Director of Planning in Unalaska. Chair Pruhs expressed appreciation to Mr. Thayer and to Jennifer Bertolini, AEA, and thanked staff for their efforts. 10. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business of the Board, the AEA meeting adjourned at 11:17 am. __________________________________________________ Curtis W. Thayer, Executive Director / Secretary 813 W Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503  Phone: (907) 771-3000  Fax: (907) 771-3044  Email: info@akenergyauthority.org REDUCING THE COST OF ENERGY IN ALASKA AKENERGYAUTHORITY.ORG MEMORANDUM TO: Curtis W. Thayer, Execuitve Director FROM: Josephine Hartley, Manager, Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency THROUGH: Audrey Alstrom, Director, Renewable energy and Energy Efficiency DATE: September 5, 2023 RE: Response to National Electric Vehicle Implementation Plan (NEVI) Questions 1. Board Comment: It was stated in the 65% draft that AEA has adopted a secondary mission as it relates to EV’s. This secondary “mission” was not approved by the Board. AEA Response: The verbiage in the FY24 plan was revised to say: “The primary mission of AEA is to lower the cost of energy in Alaska. AEA has a goal to reduce the barriers to EV adoption.” 2. Board Comment: The Labor and Workforce Development section of the plan needs to be less specific about union (IBEW) providing EVITP training. AEA Response: The verbiage in the plan has been revised to say: “The goal of the State’s NEVI Labor and Workforce plan is to develop and retain as many EV workforce opportunities within the state. This can be accomplished, in part, by working at our partners at the Department of Labor, AWP, AATCA, AGC, ABC, IBEW and other vocational schools and universities to promote in-state EV training programs and opportunities.” 3. Board Comment: Page 33 (Title XI): What happens if there is no wifi along the route? AEA Response: NEVI Standards and Requirements 23 CFR 680.114 Charging network connectivity of electric vehicle charging infrastructure requires that Chargers must remain functional if communication with the charging network is temporarily disrupted, such that they initiate and complete charging sessions, providing the minimum required power level. The FHWA agrees that connectivity is a particular challenge in remote areas, but notes that, outside of temporary disruptions, connectivity is critical for the functioning of the charging environment and therefore requires States and other designated recipients to work closely with contractors in siting and development of charging stations to ensure sufficient broadband and cellular connectivity availability. The FHWA notes that there are satellite-based connectivity solutions available that may address concerns in remote areas. In the event of communication disruption, FHWA agrees that there is a need to require charging capabilities when network connectivity has been lost. This is important to ensure a positive customer experience and to avoid stranding drivers, especially during times of emergency. Alaska Energy Authority Page 2 of 2 The FHWA included modifications in the language in the final rule to require chargers to function when communication is lost, sometimes referred to as “defaulting to charge.” 4. Board Comment: Page 45: What is the range of an EV at -50 degrees, since Fairbanks often experiences these temperatures? AEA Response: The range of EVs are known to decrease at lower temperatures, however, the amount of range increase depends on the make, model, and features of the vehicle. In general, EV range is believed to decrease by up to 50% in extreme temperature conditions. Vehicles with heat pumps experience less degradation but lose efficiency around -20 degrees and below. Currently, there are 174 EV Registrations in the Interior region of the state, and this number has been steadily increasing over the last year. 5. Board Comment: Page 47: Confirm MEA’s rate for Level 3 EV Charging. AEA Response: Per the Member Bulletin for 3Q 2023 rates, accessed on August 29, 2023, the MEA EV Charging Three Phase rate is $0.31464/kWh, a difference of $0.01221/kWh. We are unsure if this is the same rate as Q2 when the final document was published, as MEA did not provide a comment on its review of the plan to update the rate. We will make note of this revision for future updates. 6. Board Comment: Page 48, Is AEA limiting private investment in the charging stations by requiring a 20% match? AEA Response: The federal NEVI Program requires 20% matching funds, and provides 80% of program funds from federal sources. Alaska’s NEVI project approach requires 20% private cost share from site hosts who are applying to the program. For the 2023 solicitation, AEA received 34 applications from a variety of entities. Based on the response to the RFA, all applicants offered at least 20% match to the project costs. Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 01 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting August 8, 2023 1 1 Alaska Energy Security Task Force 1.Welcome and Introductions (9am) 2.Roll Call 3.Prior Meeting Minutes 4.Energy Data Presentation -ACEP (9:15 am –10:15 am) 5.Energy Scenario Planning Process Overview -B&V(10:15 am–10:45 am) 6.Break (10 mins) 7.Subcommittee Concurrent Session 1 (Rural, Coastal, & Railbelt, Incentives & Subsides) (10:55 am –12:25 am) AESTF Meeting Welcome to the Alaska Energy Security Task Force (AESTF) Meeting. We’re looking forward to collaborating on policies, strategies, and tactics to assist in the State of Alaska's goal of reducing energy costs. August 08, 2023 Agenda 02 8.Lunch Break (12:30 pm -1:30pm) 9.Subcommittee Concurrent Session 2 (State Energy Data, Statutes & Regulations) (1:35 pm –3:05 pm) 10.Break (10 mins) 11.Subcommittee Report Outs(3:15 pm –4:30 pm) 12.Next Meeting Date: Tuesday, August 29, 2023 13.Adjourn Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 03 Member Email Address Lieutenant Governor Nancy Dahlstrom, Chair lt.governor@alaska.gov Curtis W. Thayer,Alaska Energy Authority, Vice Chair cthayer@akenergyauthority.org Clay Koplin, Cordova Electric Cooperative, Vice Chair ckoplin@cordovaelectric.com Commissioner John Boyle, Department of Natural Resources john.boyle@alaska.gov Commissioner Jason Brune, Department of Environmental Conservation jason.brune@alaska.gov Nils Andreassen, Alaska Municipal League nils@akml.org Andrew Guy, Calista Corporation aguy@calistacorp.com Karl Hanneman, International Tower Hill Mines khanneman@ithmines.com Tony Izzo, Matanuska Electric Association tony.izzo@mea.coop Jenn Miller, Renewable Independent Power Producers jenn.miller@renewableipp.com Duff Mitchell, Juneau Hydropower duff.mitchell@juneauhydro.com John Sims, ENSTAR Natural Gas Company john.sims@enstarnaturalgas.com Isaac Vanderburg, Launch Alaska isaac@launchalaska.com Robert Venables, Southeast Conference robert@seconference.org Dan White, University of Alaska Fairbanks uaf.chancellor@alaska.edu Senator Click Bishop (Ex Officio)senator.click.bishop@akleg.gov Garrett Boyle, Denali Commission (Ex Officio)gboyle@denali.gov Commissioner Keith Kurber, Regulatory Commission of Alaska (Ex Officio)keith.kurber@alaska.gov Representative George Rauscher (Ex Officio)representative.george.rauscher@akleg.gov Erin Whitney, United States Department of Energy, Arctic Energy Office (Ex Officio)erin.whitney@hq.doe.gov *Andrew Jensen, Policy Advisor,Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy andrew.jensen@alaska.gov Organization Alaska Energy Security Task Force Key Milestones Completed By Regional Sub Status Reports Tuesday, July 18, 2023 Regional Sub Initial Reports Tuesday, August 8,2023 Regional Sub Final Reports and I/S/S/R* Data Sub Initial Reports Tuesday, August 29, 2023 I/S S/R* Data Sub Final Reports;Release S/R** report for 28-Day Public Comment Tuesday, September 10,2023 Receive Initial Report, Release for 28-day Public Comment; Take Public Comment on S/R** Report Tuesday, October 3, 2023 Discuss S/R** Final Report; Vote on Recommendations; Take Public Comment on Initial Report Tuesday, October 17, 2023 Discuss Final Report; Vote on Recommendations;Receive Final S/R** Report; send to GOA Tuesday, October 31, 2023 Task Force Receives Final Report Friday, November 10,2023 Vote to Approve Final Report Friday, November 17,2023 *Incentives and Subsidies and Statutes and Regulations Reform**Statutes and Regulations Reform JUNE 27 JULY 18 AUGUST 8 AUGUST 29 SEPTEMBER 10 OCTOBER 3 OCTOBER 17 NOVEMBER 10 OCTOBER 31 NOVEMBER 17 Proposed Work Schedule Subcommittee Work Release S/R** report for 28-Day Public Comment Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 4 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Survey Results Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 5 Survey received 15 responses in total. Question 2: Top energy priority key words ranked 1 through 3, with 1 being the highest priority. Rank 1: Affordability Rank 2: Reliability Rank 3: Security/Resilience Question 1: Top energy priority key words that were identified as being “Essential” to identify goals for the Comprehensive Energy Master Plan. Responses with 50% or more of the vote: •Affordability (86.67%) •Reliability (60%) •Leave no one behind approach (57.14%) •Security/Resilience (53.33%) Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force | July 18, 2023 6 fEnergy Data Presentation(9:15 am –10:15 am) Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 06 Presented by Alaska Center for Energy and Power Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force | July 18, 2023 7 f Energy Scenario Planning Process Overview(10:15 am –10:45 am) Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 07 Presented by Black and Veatch Alaska Energy Security Task Force Subcommittees Concurrent Sessions 1 (10:55 am –12:25 am) •Rural Generation, Distribution, and Storage (Denali Room) •Microsoft Teams meeting: Click here to join the meeting •Meeting ID: 274 538 030 674 •Passcode: hAAoUj •Coastal Generation, Distribution, and Storage (Redoubt Room) •Microsoft Teams meeting Click here to join the meeting •Meeting ID: 292 387 066 158 •Passcode: BqFAF4 •Railbelt Transmission, Generation, and Storage (Board Room) •Microsoft Teams meeting Click here to join the meeting •Meeting ID: 283 663 409 323 •Passcode: 3dZXeD •Incentives and Subsidies (Aspen Room) •Microsoft Teams meeting Click here to join the meeting •Meeting ID: 265 983 942 05 •Passcode: jL9kiC Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 8 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force | July 18, 2023 9 fLunch Break -(12:30 pm –1:30 pm) Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 09 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Subcommittees Concurrent Sessions 2 (1:35 am –3:05 am) •State Energy Data (Redoubt Room) •Zoom meeting: Click here to join the meeting •Meeting ID: 811 8299 6861 •Passcode: 707323 •Statutes and Regulations Reform (Board Room) •Microsoft Teams meeting Click here to join the meeting •Meeting ID: 283 663 409 323 •Passcode: 3dZXeD Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 10 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Subcommittee Report Outs Preliminary Task Force Action Review of Top Actions Identified at Concurrent Sessions Today (10 to 12 Minutes per Committee) •Railbelt Transmission, Generation, and Storage: (Co-Chairs: Tony Izzo & Jenn Miller) •Rural Generation, Distribution, and Storage: (Co-Chairs: Clay Koplin & Andrew Guy) •Coastal Generation, Distribution, and Storage: (Co-Chairs: Duff Mitchell, & Robert Venables) •Statutes and Regulations Reform: (Co-Chairs: Robert Venables & Karl Hanneman) •Incentives and Subsidies: (Co-Chairs: Nils Andreassen & Isaac Vanderburg) •State Energy Data: (Chair: Dan White) Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 11 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Energy Symposium Series Energy Symposium events that have occurred: •July 13 -Cook Inlet Natural Gas Supply & Development •July 20 -Alaska Rural Energy: Challenges and Opportunities for Reducing the Cost of Energy •July 27 -Global Trends and Grid of the Future •August 03 -Railbelt Hydropower Development & Financing: Lessons Learned for the Past, Opportunities for the Future. Logistics: Weekly on Thursdays from 11a.m.-1 p.m. Format: •Zoom webinars: recordings will be made available. Future Upcoming Event Dates: •August 10 –Cancelled •August 17 •August 24 •August 31 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 12 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Next Steps •Confirm/Schedule next meeting with your subcommittee(s): (preliminary dates below) •Railbelt Transmission, Generation, and Storage: TBD •Rural Generation, Distribution, and Storage:August 10, 1 pm •Coastal Generation, Distribution, and Storage: August 11, 11am •Statutes and Regulations Reform: August 22, 10:30 am •Incentives and Subsidies: TBD •State Energy Data: TBD •Next Energy Symposium Presentation •August 10th •Next AESTF Meeting Date:Tuesday, August 29, 2023, 10:00 am @ MEA Headquarters in Palmer, AK Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 13 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Email and Website EmailAEA-hosted info email account created to capture correspondence relatedto the Task Force. info@akenergysecuritytaskforce.com WebsiteAEA-hosted external webpage houses the Task Force’s schedule, public notices, recordings, minutes, documents, and resources as they are created. http://akenergysecuritytaskforce.com Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 08, 2023 14 Alaska Electricity Trends: preliminary data from 2021 Alaska Energy Statistics Prepared for Governor’s Energy Task Force August 8, 2023 Presentation Outline ●Context/Overview/History of Alaska Energy Statistics ●Data sources, What’s in and what’s out ●Total installed capacity (by region/source) ●Net generation (by region/source) ●Electricity Price (statewide) ●CO2 Emissions ●A few other interesting tidbits and trends ●Aspirational charts 2 Purpose of AK Energy Statistics 3 ●Report factual information in a way that can be digested and interpreted, and which stakeholders can use to inform decision-making or conduct analysis ●The statistics report does not offer pre-analyzed conclusions ●The AK Energy Statistics Report summarizes information from the Alaska Energy Statistics Workbook AK Energy Stats Workbook AK Energy Stats Report Background –28 volumes published since 1971 Alaska Electric Power Statistics 1971 –1985 AK Power Administration (gaps during 70s) 1985 –1988 AK Power Authority 1988 –1993 AK Power Authority & AK Systems Coordinating Council 1993 –1995 ASCC & DCRA Division of Energy 1995 –2000 [Not Published] 2001 AK Energy Authority, Denali Comm, RCA, & ISER (vol. 22) Alaska Energy Statistics 2008 –2011 AEA & ISER (vol. 23-26)! 2012 –2013 Workbooks only 2014 –2021 [Not Published] …. YET! 4 Energy Security Task Force –Duties and Responsibilities 1.Establish a baseline energy portfolio for the State of Alaska. 2.Identify and evaluate potential future changes that could occur to energy supply and distribution in the state, the impacts of such changes, and the opportunity for mitigating impacts and leveraging opportunities associated with such change. 3.Identify solutions for meeting Alaska’s energy needs now and in the future with a focus on affordability, reliability, and security. 4.Identify policies, programs, regulatory changes, and funding that could accelerate adoption of these energy strategies. 5.Develop and maintain a public database of taskforce information and recommend strategies for sharing energy data and information through an energy data portal. 6.Recommend a statewide energy goal, a plan to achieve it, and identify additional work that may be required to refine this vision. 5 Contributors: 6 ACEP Research Professor, Energy Economics and Policy Gwen Holdmann Lead, ACEP Energy Transitions Initiative Vanessa Raymond Lead, ACEP Data Program Manager Sara Fisher-Goad UAF Program Manager Lead, ACEP Solar Program Initiative Brittany Smart, ETI Coordinator Neil McMahon DOWL Ian MacDougall ACEP Data Analyst Diane Hirschberg, Director, ISER Dayne Broderson, ACEP ARCTIC PM … and many others Funding Partners: 7 Primary Data Sources ●Alaska PCE program data collected by AEA ●USDOE, Energy Information Administration: ○Form EIA-860 (plant and unit data)(all producers with > 1 MW installed capacity) https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/eia860/ ○Form EIA-923 (generation and fuel use by plant) https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/eia923/○Form EIA-861 and 861S (electricity generation, purchases, and sales)(limited coverage) https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/eia861/●Other ○AEA powerhouse inventories○Utility annual reports to RCA (containing FERC Form 1 excerpts)○Utility COPA filings with RCA○ACEP Net Metered BTM (behind-the-meter) capacity reports○Renewable Energy Fund (REF) project reports○Individual Utilities○Additional misc sources 8 Excel Workbooks produced since 2011… Regional Summaries… …of plant-level & community-level data, for DIY analysis 9 Examples of 2021 Data: 11 Effective Rate No. of PCE Communities Average Residential Rate Average PCE Rate Average Effective Rate Less than 0.20 7 0.14 0.00 0.14 0.2-0.29 117 0.43 0.17 0.26 0.3-0.39 47 0.47 0.15 0.32 0.4-0.49 14 0.70 0.28 0.42 0.5-0.59 4 1.02 0.49 0.53 More than $0.60 3 1.00 0.38 0.62 Total 192 Table 1a (above) and Table 1b (right) Communities Participating in Power Cost Equalization Program by AEA Energy Regions, 202 AEA Energy Region PCE Eligible Active PCE Eligible Inactive PCE Ineligible % Eligible Active in PCE program Aleutians 11 1 0 92% Bering Straits 16 0 0 100% Bristol Bay 26 1 0 96% Copper River/Chugach 8 0 15 100% Kodiak 4 1 5 80% Lower Yukon-Kuskokwim 46 2 0 96% North Slope 7 0 2 100% Northwest Arctic 11 0 0 100% Railbelt 0 0 95 Southeast 22 0 6 100% Yukon-Koyukuk/Upper Tanana 41 1 1 98% Total 192 6 124 Some utilities, both in urban and rural Alaska, serve multiple communities. What’s included in Alaska Energy Statistics (and what is not): 12 •Includes only electricity •Excludes North Slope and TAPS oil & gas operations •Includes Deadhorse (TDX Power is regulated) •Excludes stand-alone industrial generation •Currently excludes behind-the-meter (BTM) solar •BUECI and Wrangell not included in 2021 BUECI = Barrow Utilities Electric Cooperative, Inc 13 Break the data into 3 groups of AEA Energy Regions “Rural Remote”: Aleutians Bering Straits Bristol Bay Lower Y-K Yukon/Upper Tanana North Slope Northwest Arctic 14 “Railbelt” “Coastal”:Kodiak, Copper River/Chugach, Southeast Total installed capacity Image: Southcentral Power Project: 204 MW 15 (Capacity is measured as nameplate, without regard for capacity factor or intermittent nature of renewables) 16 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 2011 2012 2013 2018 2021MWRailbelt installed capacity (MW) Storage Utility solar Wind Hydro Recip engine Fossil turbine 2150 MW 17 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 2011 2012 2013 2018 2021MWRemote Rural Region Installed Capacity Storage Utility solar Wind Hydro Recip engine Fossil turbine Turbines at BUECI & Deadhorse 338 MW 18 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 2011 2012 2013 2018 2021MWCoastal Region Installed Capacity Storage Utility solar Wind Hydro Recip engine Fossil turbine 653 MW Renewable installed capacity Credit: Amanda Byrd 19 20 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 2011 2012 2013 2018 2021MWRailbelt Renewables Installed Capacity Solar, incl BTM Landfill gas Wind Hydro Storage Fire Island Wind +18 Eva Creek Wind +25 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022MegawattsRailbelt Net Metered Installed Capacity (Solar PV) Average growth during 2010-2022 = 43% per year 21 Data source –compiled by ACEP solar technologies program from individual utility RCA reporting 22 0 5 10 15 20 25 2011 2012 2013 2018 2021MWPCE-Eligible Region Renewables Installed Capacity Utility Solar Wind Hydro Storage Wind 2018 to 2021: Decommissioning of AOCs: Bering St. -2; Kotzebue -1.2; Aleutians -0.2 23 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 2011 2012 2013 2018 2021MWCoastal Region Renewables Installed Capacity Utility Solar Wind Hydro Storage Hydro 2013 to 2018: Kodiak +11.3 Southeast +19.4 CR/Chugach +6.5 Net generation 24 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 19711973197519771979198119831985198719891991199319951997199920012003200520072009201120132015201720192021Statewide net generation by fuel, 1971-2021 GWh (= million kilowatt-hours) Utility Solar Wind Hydro Gas Oil Coal This is legacy data, year-to-year blips may reflect changes in reporting or compilation methods 25 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021GWhNet Generation by Region, 2012-2021 GWh (= million kilowatt-hours) Coastal PCE-Eligible Railbelt 26 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021GWhRailbelt Net Generation and Total Sales, 2012-2021 Utility Solar Wind Hydro Gas Oil Coal Sales 27 28 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021GWhRural Remote Region Net Generation and Total Sales, 2012-2021 Utility Solar Wind Hydro Gas Oil Sales Gas = N Slope (BUECI & Deadhorse & Nuiqsut) 0 200 400 600 800 1,000 1,200 1,400 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021GWhCoastal Region Net Generation and Total Sales, 2012-2021 Utility Solar Wind Hydro Gas Oil Sales 29 Average price 30 0 5 10 15 20 25 198019821984198619881990199219941996199820002002200420062008201020122014201620182020cents per kWhAverage Revenue, cents per kWh, 1980-2021 (current or "nominal" dollars) residential commercial Statewide weighted average, weighted by sales 31 0 5 10 15 20 25 198019821984198619881990199219941996199820002002200420062008201020122014201620182020cents per kWhAverage revenue, cents per kWh, 1980-2021 (inflation-adjusted to 2021 dollars using Urban AK CPI) residential commercialStatewide weighted average, weighted by sales 32 33PCE Trends (2013-2022)Data Source –AEA PCE Annual Report (2022) CO2 emissions 34 0 500,000 1,000,000 1,500,000 2,000,000 2,500,000 3,000,000 Railbelt PCE-Eligible Coastal 2021 CO2 emissions, metric tons, from net generation of "grid electricity" Gas Oil Coal 35 36 Railbelt Utilities Self-Reported CO2 Intensity 0 1,000,000 2,000,000 3,000,000 4,000,000 5,000,000 6,000,000 7,000,000 8,000,000 9,000,000 N Slope O&G ops (partial)Statewide "Grid electricity" 2021 CO2 emissions, metric tons, from "grid electricity" vs North Slope Oil &Gas Ops (partial) Gas Oil Coal 37N Slope CO2 from EPA FLIGHT database https://ghgdata.epa.gov/ghgp/main.do 38 Alaska Sankey Diagram (2001 Data) 39 Example: Iceland Primary Energy Consumption 40 Questions/Discussion We cannot follow a path to the future. We have to build one. Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 01 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting August 29, 2023 1 1 Alaska Energy Security Task Force 4. 3. 2. 1.IntroductionsAESTF Meeting Welcome to the Alaska Energy Security Task Force (AESTF) Meeting. We’re looking forward to collaborating on policies, strategies, and tactics to assist in the State of Alaska's goal of reducing energy costs. August 29, 2023 Agenda 02 Subcommittee Report Outs5. 6. 7. 8. Roll Call Prior Meeting Minutes August 8, 2023 State Energy Data Subcommittee Presentation: Update from Two-Day Technical Working Group Session Round Table Discussion: on preliminary subcommittee action recommendations. Facilitated Discussion: Energy Symposium Series Discussion Adjourn Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 03 Member Email Address Lieutenant Governor Nancy Dahlstrom, Chair lt.governor@alaska.gov Curtis W. Thayer,Alaska Energy Authority, Vice Chair cthayer@akenergyauthority.org Clay Koplin, Cordova Electric Cooperative, Vice Chair ckoplin@cordovaelectric.com Commissioner John Boyle, Department of Natural Resources john.boyle@alaska.gov Commissioner Emma Pokon, Department of Environmental Conservation emma.pokon@alaska.gov Nils Andreassen, Alaska Municipal League nils@akml.org Andrew Guy, Calista Corporation aguy@calistacorp.com Karl Hanneman, International Tower Hill Mines khanneman@ithmines.com Tony Izzo, Matanuska Electric Association tony.izzo@mea.coop Jenn Miller, Renewable Independent Power Producers jenn.miller@renewableipp.com Duff Mitchell, Juneau Hydropower duff.mitchell@juneauhydro.com John Sims, ENSTAR Natural Gas Company john.sims@enstarnaturalgas.com Isaac Vanderburg, Launch Alaska isaac@launchalaska.com Robert Venables, Southeast Conference robert@seconference.org Dan White, University of Alaska Fairbanks uaf.chancellor@alaska.edu Senator Click Bishop (Ex Officio)senator.click.bishop@akleg.gov Garrett Boyle, Denali Commission (Ex Officio)gboyle@denali.gov Commissioner Keith Kurber, Regulatory Commission of Alaska (Ex Officio)keith.kurber@alaska.gov Representative George Rauscher (Ex Officio)representative.george.rauscher@akleg.gov Erin Whitney, United States Department of Energy, Arctic Energy Office (Ex Officio)erin.whitney@hq.doe.gov *Andrew Jensen, Policy Advisor,Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy andrew.jensen@alaska.gov Organization Alaska Energy Security Task Force Key Milestones Completed By Regional Sub Status Reports Tuesday, July 18, 2023 Regional Sub Initial Reports Tuesday, August 8,2023 Regional Sub Final Reports and I/S/S/R* Data Sub Initial Reports Tuesday, August 29, 2023 I/S S/R* Data Sub Final Reports;Release S/R** report for 28-Day Public Comment Tuesday, September 19,2023 Receive Initial Report, Release for 28-day Public Comment; Take Public Comment on S/R** Report Tuesday, October 3, 2023 Discuss S/R** Final Report; Vote on Recommendations; Take Public Comment on Initial Report Tuesday, October 17, 2023 Discuss Final Report; Vote on Recommendations;Receive Final S/R** Report; send to GOA Tuesday, October 31, 2023 Task Force Receives Final Report Friday, November 10,2023 Vote to Approve Final Report Friday, November 17,2023 *Incentives and Subsidies and Statutes and Regulations Reform**Statutes and Regulations Reform JUNE 27 JULY 18 AUGUST 8 AUGUST 29 SEPTEMBER 10 OCTOBER 3 OCTOBER 17 NOVEMBER 10 OCTOBER 31 NOVEMBER 17 Proposed Work Schedule Subcommittee Work Release S/R** report for 28-Day Public Comment Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 4 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Key Milestones Completed By Regional Sub Status Reports Tuesday, July 18, 2023 Regional Sub Initial Reports Tuesday, August 8,2023 Regional Sub Final Reports and Data Sub Initial Reports Tuesday, August 29, 2023 Data Sub Final Reports Tuesday, September 19,2023 Receive Initial Report & Presentation, Public Comment Meeting Tuesday, October 3, 2023 Task Force Meeting; Release Draft Report for Public Comment (Meeting Added)Tuesday, October 10, 2023(Meeting rescheduled to October 10, 2023)Tuesday, October 17, 2023Discuss Final Report; Vote on Recommendations; send to GOA; Public Comment on Final Report Tuesday, October 31, 2023 Public Comment Incorporated in Draft Final Report (No Task Force Meeting)Tuesday, October 24, 2023 Task Force Receives Final Report Friday, November 10,2023 Vote to Approve Final Report Friday, November 17,2023 Revised Proposed Work Schedule for Consideration Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force | July 18, 2023 6 f State Energy Data Subcommittee Presentation Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 06 Presented by Alaska Center for Energy and Power Alaska Energy Security Task Force Subcommittee Report Outs •Railbelt Transmission, Generation, and Storage: (Co-Chairs: Tony Izzo & Jenn Miller) •Rural Generation, Distribution, and Storage: (Co-Chairs: Clay Koplin & Andrew Guy) •Coastal Generation, Distribution, and Storage: (Co-Chairs: Duff Mitchell, & Robert Venables) •Statutes and Regulations Reform: (Co-Chairs: Robert Venables & Karl Hanneman) •Incentives and Subsidies: (Co-Chairs: Nils Andreassen & Isaac Vanderburg) •State Energy Data: (Erin Whitney for Chair: Dan White) Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 7 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force | July 18, 2023 8 f Round Table Discussion: on draft, preliminary subcommittee action recommendations. Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 08 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force | July 18, 2023 9 f Energy Symposium Series : Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 09 Discuss lessons learned, review of topics explored, and if there are any actions to be added to the plan based on known gaps or knowledge presented at these symposiums. Facilitated by Michael Baker International, Inc. Alaska Energy Security Task Force Energy Symposium Series Energy Symposium events that have occurred: 7/13 -Cook Inlet Natural Gas Supply & Development 7/20 -Alaska Rural Energy: Challenges and Opportunities for Reducing the Cost of Energy 7/27 -Global Trends and Grid of the Future 8/03 -Railbelt Hydropower Development & Financing: Lessons Learned for the Past, Opportunities for the Future. 8/17 –Alaska Energy Statistics and Economics 8/24 -Transmission and Storage: Building a More Resilient Grid Logistics: Weekly on Thursdays from 11a.m.-1 p.m. Format: •Zoom webinars: recordings will be made available. Future Upcoming Event Dates: 8/31-Emerging Technologies and Opportunities for Alaska: Small Scale Nuclear 9/07 -RPS and Clean Energy Standards: National Policy Comparisons Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 10 For more information on the symposiums visit uaf.edu/acep/news/energy-symposium.php Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 11 Watch the complete July 13th Energy Symposium recording here. 2022 Cook Inlet Gas Forecast Prepared by: Division of Oil & Gas, Alaska Department of Natural Resources Cook Inlet Gas Supply Project Phase I Prepared by: Regulatory Commission of Alaska Alaska Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Project Prepared by: Alaska Gasline Development Corp July 13th Energy Symposium: Cook Inlet Natural Gas Supply and Development Presentations included: Alaska Energy Security Task Force Key Topics Explored: •Cook Inlet gas won’t meet forecasted demand beyond 2026 (current reserves) or early/mid 2030s (assuming incremental supply development) •Viable options for Cook Inlet Gas supply must be reduced to single sanction decision by Dec 2023 •Alaska LNG project update Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 12 2022 Cook Inlet Gas Forecast Truncated vs Untruncated July 13th Energy Symposium: Cook Inlet Natural Gas Supply and Development Alaska Energy Security Task Force Discussion Topic July 13th Energy Symposium: Cook Inlet Natural Gas Supply and Development Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 13 Any transformative actions for the TF to consider related to Natural Gas Supply and Development? Alaska Energy Security Task Force Providing Electricity in Rural Alaska Prepared by: Alaska Village Electric Cooperative How is AVEC Doing? Prepared by: Alaska Village Electric Cooperative Standalone Rural Electric Utilities Prepared by: Matanuska Telephone Association Public Private Partnerships & The Case for Community –IPPs Prepared by: Northwest Arctic Borough & NANA Regional From the Frontier to the Future Prepared by: Intelligent Energy Systems, LLC Watch the complete July 20th Energy Symposium recording here. July 20th Energy Symposium: Alaska Rural Energy: Challenges & Opportunities for Reducing the Cost of Energy Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 14 For more information on the symposiums visit uaf.edu/acep/news/energy-symposium.php Presentations included and linked below: Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 15 July 20th Energy Symposium: Alaska Rural Energy: Challenges & Opportunities for Reducing the Cost of Energy Key Topics Explored: Why electricity is expensive in rural Alaska? •Small populations, small loads, isolated systems, remote, expensive fuel, O&M, limited personnel, etc. Strategies discussed to reduce power cost: •Improve generation efficiency, minimize distribution loss, interconnect villages, add renewables and renewables-based microgrids, capture and sell recovered heat, excess wind energy, promote energy education, and incentivize reduction of diesel use. Case Studies and examples from standalone utilities and cooperatives: •Alaska Village Electric Cooperative; Chaninik Wind Group; NWAB Independent Power Producers (IPPs)/Community Solar; and Nikolski Public Private Partnerships –IPPs •Vision of Northwest Arctic Borough to be 50% reliant on regionally available energy sources (renewable and non-renewable) by 2050. Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 16 Discussion Topic July 20th Energy Symposium: Alaska Rural Energy: Challenges and Opportunities for Reducing the Cost of Energy What actions are necessary to advance alternative energy sources for rural communities (e.g. micro-nuclear, renewables, etc )? Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 17 Discussion Topic July 20th Energy Symposium: Alaska Rural Energy: Challenges and Opportunities for Reducing the Cost of Energy What are TF members initial thoughts on the current PCE program? Alaska Energy Security Task Force Energy Transformation – It can Happen Faster than you Think! South Australia as a Case Study, Prepared by: Sandia National Laboratories Opportunities for Electric Load Growth in Alaska Prepared by: Sandia National Laboratories Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 18 July 27th Energy Symposium: Global Trends and Grid of the Future Watch the complete July 27th Energy Symposium recording here. For more information on the symposiums visit uaf.edu/acep/news/energy-symposium.php Presentations included: Insights into the Icelandic Energy Market Prepared by: Alaska Center for Energy and Power Alaska Energy Security Task Force Key Topics Explored: •Heating space and water is the biggest energy user in Alaska •Cold-climate air source heat pumps (ccASHP): problems and solutions with widespread heat pump adoption and solutions •Potential Solutions include: dual fuel heat pumps, better building envelope, geothermal heat pumps Case Studies: •Proliferation of diverse energy in South Australia –are there lessons to be learned? •Overview of Iceland’s energy market and how it compares to Alaska Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 19 July 27th Energy Symposium: Global Trends and Grid of the Future Alaska Energy Security Task Force Any topics from this symposium the TF members would like to discuss? Discussion Topic Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 20 July 27th Energy Symposium: Global Trends and Grid of the Future Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 21 August 3rd Energy Symposium: Railbelt Hydropower Development & Financing: Lessons Learned from the Past, Opportunities for the Future Small Hydropower in Southcentral Alaska Prepared by: Polarconsult Alaksa, Inc. Bradley Lake Operations and Governance Prepared by: Bradley Lake Project Management Committee Railbelt Hydropower –Current & Upcoming Projects Prepared by: Alaska Energy Authority Susitna-Watana Hydro Prepared by: Susitna-Watana Hydro Watch the complete August 3rd Energy Symposium recording here. For more information on the symposiums visit uaf.edu/acep/news/energy-symposium.php Presentations included and linked below: Alaska Energy Security Task Force Key Topics Explored: •Dixon Diversion –would be largest renewable energy project since Bradley Lake •Susitna-Watana Hydro: ~50% of Railbelt’s energy demand •Southcentral small hydro: 100MW capacity is achievable •Bradley Lake Operations and Governance Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 22 August 3rd Energy Symposium: Railbelt Hydropower Development & Financing: Lessons Learned from the Past, Opportunities for the Future Alaska Energy Security Task Force Discussion Topic Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 23 August 3rd Energy Symposium: Railbelt Hydropower Development & Financing: Lessons Learned from the Past, Opportunities for the Future Any TF recommendations to move Railbelt Hydropower projects forward? Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Data: The Good, the Bad, the Missing Prepared by: Alaska Center for Energy and Power Alaska Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) Overview Prepared by: UA Center for Economic Development, Alaska DCCED CEDS Energy –Specific Goals & Objectives Prepared by: Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 24 August 17th Energy Symposium: Alaska Energy Statistics & Economics Watch the complete August 17th Energy Symposium recording here. For more information on the symposiums visit uaf.edu/acep/news/energy-symposium.php Presentations included and linked below: Alaska Energy Security Task Force Key Topics Explored: •Need for central energy data repository with regular maintenance and updates •Unreliable/uncleaned data is worse than no data •There is almost zero measured fuel oil consumption data •Impact of EVs and Heat Pumps Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 25 August 17th Energy Symposium: Alaska Energy Statistics & Economics Slide from the CEDS presentation. Alaska Energy Security Task Force Slide from the CEDS presentation. Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 26 August 17th Energy Symposium: Alaska Energy Statistics & Economics Key Topics Explored: Alaska Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) includes actions and objectives related to the following: •Sustainable Energy •Affordable Energy •Alternative Energy Workforce •Resilience Capacity •Resilient Infrastructure •Oil & Gas •Alternative Energy •Timber Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 27 TF comments on the relationship of the Energy Security Masterplan with CEDS Economic Development Strategy? Discussion Topic August 17th Energy Symposium: Alaska Energy Statistics & Economics Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 28 August 24th Energy Symposium: Transmission & Storage: Building a More Resilient Grid Energy Storage Options and Selection Considerations Prepared by: Sandia National Laboratories Beneficial and Equitable Electrification Prepared by: Alaska Center for Energy and Power Tidal Power in Alaska Prepared by: Alaska Center for Energy and Power Watch the complete August 24th Energy Symposium recording here. For more information on the symposiums visit uaf.edu/acep/news/energy-symposium.php Presentations included and linked below: Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 29 August 24th Energy Symposium: Transmission & Storage: Building a More Resilient Grid Key Topics Explored: •Energy storage system (ESS) selection is scenario specific, key scenario considerations include: •Power purchase agreement; •Grid demand; •Available energy for charging; •System Round Trip Efficiency; % demand met requirement; and •Levelized Cost of Energy Storage requirement/ROI requirement •Beneficial and Equitable Electrification •Harnessing local, sustainable, and cost-effective energy resources to electrify energy loads such as transportation and heating. •Tidal Power in Alaska •Policy & Permitting Recommendations: •Identify and Fill Regulatory Data Gaps •Support Adaptive Management Approaches •R&D Investment Alaska Energy Security Task Force Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 30 Discussion Topic August 24th Energy Symposium: Transmission & Storage: Building a More Resilient Grid TF recommendations for leveraging existing and future transmission and storage technology? Alaska Energy Security Task Force Next Steps •Confirm/Schedule next meeting with your subcommittee(s): •Railbelt Transmission, Generation, and Storage: August 30th, 1:00 pm •Rural Generation, Distribution, and Storage:September 7th, 1:00 pm •Coastal Generation, Distribution, and Storage: September 8th, 11:00 am •Statutes and Regulations Reform: September 5th, 10:30 am •Incentives and Subsidies: September 11th, 8:00 am •State Energy Data: TBD •Next Energy Symposium Presentation •Thursday, August 31st, 2023 •Next AESTF Meeting Date:Tuesday, September 19th, 2023 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 31 Alaska Energy Security Task Force Email and Website EmailAEA-hosted info email account created to capture correspondence relatedto the Task Force. info@akenergysecuritytaskforce.com WebsiteAEA-hosted external webpage houses the Task Force’s schedule, public notices, recordings, minutes, documents, and resources as they are created. http://akenergysecuritytaskforce.com Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | August 29, 2023 32 Alaska Energy Security Task Force AESTF State Energy Data Subcommittee Report August 29, 2023 Alaska Energy Security Task Force State Energy Data Subcommittee: Formation Chair:Chancellor Dan White Commissioner John Boyle Dr. Erin Whitney Observer:Conner Erickson, AEA Support:Alaska Center for Energy and Power (ACEP) Alaska Energy Security Task Force State Energy Data Subcommittee: Purpose Support the AESTF’s duty to establish a statewide energy plan that includes: •Establish a baseline energy portfolio for the State of Alaska •Develop and maintain a public database of task force information and recommend strategies for sharing energy data and information through an energy data portal State Energy Data Subcommittee: Responsibilities •Identify valuable energy data resources, data ownership, and determine data availability •Identify data systems, products, services, and platforms used for data collection, storage, documentation, preservation, and sharing Alaska Energy Security Task Force State Energy Data Subcommittee: Deliverables •Inventory of available energy data, data ownership, and data availability •Inventory of data systems, products, services, and platforms used for data collection, analysis, and reporting •SWOT analysis of data end users and their needs •Recommendations for data schemas, frameworks, partners, and standardizations to improve interoperability and collaboration between data and service providers to establish, serve, and maintain data tools Alaska Energy Security Task Force Technical Advisory Committee: Formation State Energy Data Subcommittee established the a Technical Advisory Committee to support the plan development by leveraging existing projects, collaborations, partnerships, and subject matter experts. The TAC developed draft deliverables for the State Energy Data Subcommittee’s consideration. Chair:Brittany Smart (ACEP) Data Providers:Diane Hirshberg (ISER), Vanessa Raymond (ACEP), Mark Spencer (AHFC) Data Modelers:Erin McKittrick (AKWarm ), Neil McMahon (DOWL), Conner Erickson (AEA) Platform Providers:Leslie Jones (DNR), Dayne Broderson (ACEP) Data End Users:Katie Conway (Denali Commission), Grace Beaujean (DCCED), Chad Nordlum(Native Village of Kotzebue), Nolan Klouda (UA CED), Ian Mills (UA CED), Connie Fredenberg (MTA Online) Alaska Energy Security Task Force Technical Advisory Committee: Process In order to produce draft deliverables in a timely fashion, ACEP coordinated a two-day facilitated Energy Data Retreat in Anchorage, Alaska. •ACEP secured Vision Foresight Strategy to facilitate the Energy Data Retreat •A pre-survey was sent to interested TAC members to gather initial thoughts on SWOT and recommendations ahead of the retreat •Two -day Energy Data Retreat •Day One –SWOT •Day Two –Recommendations Alaska Energy Security Task Force Energy Data: Defined For clarity, the TAC established and defined the term “energy data” in this report as follows: “Information about how electricity, heat, and transportation fuels are sourced, generated, stored, distributed, used, and governed; and the impacts on the built, natural, and socioeconomic environments.” Alaska Energy Security Task Force Summary SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats) Strengths Weaknesses Valuable energy data needed for decision-making already exists, especially for electrical energy ● Existing data can be inconsistent, inaccessible, provided in formats which do not meet end-user needs ● Thermal and transportation datasets are lacking Opportunities Threats Increase collaboration and data sharing ● Security and access concerns ● Lack of sufficient funding/staffing to meet needs Alaska Energy Security Task Force Prioritized Recommendations 1.Establish a Data Department within the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) 2.Establish an energy data governance committee that is responsible forestablishingminimumprotocolsfordatacollection,quality,storage,use,and access 3.Fund data capacity 4.Improve existing energy data and collect new,needed data Alaska Energy Security Task Force Recommendations: Priority #1 Actions 1.Establish a Data Department within the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) a.Fund,develop,and implement a technical and needs assessment b.Fund,develop,and implement a capital asset plan c.Develop and fund an operating and maintenance budget,to include the identificationofpotentialfundingsourcesandmechanisms d.Appropriately staff the department based on the technical and needs assessment Alaska Energy Security Task Force Recommendations: Priority #2 Actions 2.Establish an energy data governance committee that is responsible for establishingminimumprotocolsfordatacollection,quality,storage,use,and access a.Form a technical advisory committee to draft recommendations on where the datagovernancecommitteeshouldbesupportedandstaffed,committee membership,scope of responsibilities,and other issues that may need to be addressed b.Fund a long-term data governance strategy Alaska Energy Security Task Force Recommendations: Priority #3 Actions 3.Fund data capacity a.Establish dedicated data collection and analysis positions in state agencies that areresponsibleforcollecting,analyzing,hosting,distributing data in formats that areaccessible,and liaising with the AEA Data Department b.Provide professional development and/or skills training opportunities for staff andotheragencypartnersasitrelatestodatacollectionandanalysis Alaska Energy Security Task Force Recommendations: Priority #4 Actions 4.Improve existing energy data and collect new,needed data a.Fund a gap analysis of energy data,including existing data,accessibility,quality,age,and what isneededfordecisionmaking b.Revitalize,fund,and maintain energy data platforms and services that ensures the availability andaccessibilityofdata c.Conduct a data audit of the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA),to include recommendations d.Expand the Power Cost Equalization (PCE)report and extent of such data reported e.Expand the definition of “energy data”by adopting the TAC definition,ensuring the term is inclusiveofheat/thermal and transportation fuel data Alaska Energy Security Task Force State Energy Data Subcommittee: Discussion Points •Develop a stronger statement regarding the importance of ongoing funding for allaspectsofenergydata •Consider adopting the following as a priority recommendation (currently included inAppendixB:Recommendations): “Identify and assign the responsible agency or organization for energy data collection, aggregation, and sharing in Alaska State Statute” Alaska Energy Security Task Force Appendix A: SWOT –Strengths •Strong network of agencies monitoring,developing,and regulatingenergyresourcesanddata,including DNR,AEA,ANTHC,RCA,Denali Commission,and the University of Alaska system •Passionate stakeholders and energy champions •Alaska Energy Data Gateway provides community,regional,andstatewidedashboardsforbaselineenergydata •The Alaska Affordable Energy Strategy serves as a useful templateforinformationwhichwouldbeusefulforfuturepotentialdataplatformsandservicestooffer •Alaska Geospatial Office and Alaska Geospatial Council administerstheStateOpenDataGeoportalandfosterscollaboration •RCA requires reporting by regulated and PCE-eligible utilities •RCA reports have been converted to text and put in a database byACEP •AEA currently has two different infrastructure inventories underway •Existing data is heavily used and useful for energy and relatedactivities •Federal and state demographic data is available and consistent •DCCED community profile maps have baseline information forruralcommunities •ACEP shares information through community and virtualmeetings,presentations,and publications •AHFC recently improved ARIS data access methods to improveavailabilityforenergydataanalysis •ACEP is leading the effort to publish an update to the AlaskaEnergyStatisticsWorkbooksandReport •Willingness of organizations to share their available data withexternalorganizations •Individual initiatives across various agencies have been verysuccessfulovertime •Energy data is a priority for many stakeholders,public andprivate,who are seeking such information to support projectsandprograms Alaska Energy Security Task Force Appendix A: SWOT –Weaknesses •Alaska Energy Data Gateway data has not been updated since 2017 •Lack of metadata standards or controlled vocabularies across the energy data landscape •Alaska Geospatial Office is not sufficiently staffed •Energy data is difficult to access and/or is not shared in a format that is easily usable orthatmeetstheneedsofend-users •Lack of authoritative energy data and sources •Lack of centralized database leads to disparate data sets and duplication of efforts •Lack of a defined plan for data management and distribution,including energy,labor,and other socio-economic datasets •Lack of project and data coordination •Lack of adequate foundational data,such as Railbelt transmission lines and utility datathatneedtoincludemorekeyattributesintheexistingdatasets •Existing energy data lacking in quality,provenance,and thus reliability •Non-residential rates and community facility rates in PCE communities,including otherfeesordemandcharges,are not included in monthly PCE reports to AEA or annualreportstotheRCA •Lack of clarity in reporting on wind,solar,and hydro energy data •Federal data has long time lags and sampling issues •Issues related to access of proprietary data,such as location of assets and infrastructure •Lack of data in rural communities,especially regarding thermal/heat •Existing Alaska Energy Statistics Workbooks and Report has not been updated in 10years •Significant data gaps in thermal/heat production and use with no existingformalizeddatacollectionprocessesestablished •Lack of seasonal understanding of energy generation and sales •Energy data from some communities is missing due to lack of reporting •Railbelt energy data is segmented by utility,limited to certain regulated utilities,andnotavailableRailbelt-wide •DCCED community profile maps are outdated snapshots of information •Lack of baseline datasets,especially in rural communities •Communities lack the workforce,skill sets,and capacity needed to create andmanagethedatarequired •Lack of capacity and knowledge on how to secure funding opportunities •Funding agencies requiring deliverables inhibits coordination on energy projects •Lack of technical capacity,data leadership,and sufficient funding •Lack of reporting requirements for unregulated utilities •Lack of understanding,technical skills,and capacity by utilities and independentpowerproducerstoknowwhatdataisusefulandhowtomakeitavailable •Requesting and receiving data can be very onerous and time intensive Alaska Energy Security Task Force Appendix A: SWOT –Opportunities •Leverage existing data infrastructure and sources,such as theAlaskaEnergyDataGateway,to inform decision making for projectandpolicydevelopment •Funding agencies could require energy data reports as arequirementoffundingopportunities •Leverage the Alaska Geospatial Council as a collaborative spaceregardingenergydatasharinganddistribution •Use the Alaska Affordable Energy Strategy as a resource for thedevelopmentofastatewideenergydatainventory •Shared interest of communities and researchers to coordinate andimproveonunifieddata •Strengthen existing pathways to better understand thermal/heatproductionanduse •Standardize energy data collections,aggregation,and associationbetweenvariousdatasources,and regularly share the datasets tohavebettermaintainedandconsistentstatewideelectricalproductiondata •Identify gaps where energy data exists •Understanding what kinds of data are the most valuable topotentialstakeholders •Unprecedented levels of federal funding opportunities •New technologies are available for data collection •Influx of federally funded projects could lead to new,updateddatacollectiononenergyandinfrastructureacrosstheState •Increased interest in the Arctic as a matter of national securityandenergytransitionscouldleadtoincreasedcommunity-military partnerships •Funding opportunities allow for new infrastructure andconnectivityinruralcommunities •The establishment of the AESTF provides a platform to havecollaborativediscussionstoidentifyneedsandbestpracticeswhileofferingrecommendations Alaska Energy Security Task Force Appendix A: SWOT –Threats •Lack of cybersecurity protocols and restrictions on existing websites,data portals,and increasingly tech-reliant energy systems limit the ability to host and serve sensitive or restricted datasets •Existing data is out of date and not being updated or maintained on a regular basis •Inconsistent,sporadic,or lack of sufficient funding for data collection,distribution,analysis,and modeling •Military solutions to meet their energy needs will heavily influence the options available for the surrounding communities,with decisions being influenced by national energy security frameworks •Lack of workforce,technical skills,and capacity across the state,but especially pronounced in rural communities,to collect,manage,update,collate,analyze,and distribute energy data •Poor technical choices and/or lack of coordination at critical junctures that hamstring data reliability,access,and reusability Alaska Energy Security Task Force Appendix B: Recommendations •Identify and assign the responsible agency or organization for energy data collection,aggregation,and sharing in Alaska State Statute •Fund the revitalization of the Alaska Energy Data Gateway in a version which is reflectiveofcurrentandfutureneedsandleveragesnewersharingplatformsincludingongoingupdateandmaintenanceefforts •Increase capacity of the Alaska Geospatial Office to support energy data managementanddistributionneeds •Incentivize or mandate private entities to share heating fuel information,such as tankfarms,heating oil purchase costs and volumes,and delivery methods and costs •Fund an update and implement the Alaska Affordable Energy Strategy •Establish an Energy Working Group as part of the Alaska Geospatial Council •Develop a long-term data management strategy to ensure data quality,reliability,andpublicandprivateaccess •Keep energy systems up-to-date with proper security restrictions and access controls,allowing for granular and proper data sharing and access •Establish a public database of statewide electric utility data to include railbelt,coastal,and rural data •Leverage existing Alaska Geospatial Data Portal to provide public and restricted accessofenergydatamanagedbyAEAandotherappropriateagencies •Adequately fund the Alaska Geospatial Office to support additional staff to meetstatewidedataneeds •Re-license existing data sources to partner agencies to support collaboration andaccess •Secure the Alaska Geospatial Office in Alaska State Statute with accompanyingoperatingbudget •Identify authoritative data sources •Use authoritative energy data to inform energy policy and project development •Establish a task force to develop energy data cyber security requirements •Require AEA to create and track offset diesel data,kWh sales by all rate classes,kWhs sold for heat and at what price,and identify the specific renewable resourceusedbytheutility •Require PCE calculations to value excess renewably-generated energy that is usedforheatbyprovidingawaiver •Use bulk fuel loan data by DCRA to begin capturing the rural heating load •Fund a comprehensive survey to identify the size and generation type of thethermalloadinAlaskancommunities,ensuring military demands are included •Fund an inventory and assessment of transportation fuel datasets needed andavailabletodeveloparegional-or community-level transportation energy burdenstudy,ensuring such an effort is repeatable •Coordinate with rural utilities to establish baseline infrastructure needs •Research and explore establishing an Alaska Data Trust,similar to a Land Trust Alaska Energy Security Task Force Email and Website EmailAEA-hosted info email account created to capture correspondence relatedto the Task Force. info@akenergysecuritytaskforce.com WebsiteAEA-hosted external webpage houses the Task Force’s schedule, public notices, recordings, minutes, documents, and resources as they are created. http://akenergysecuritytaskforce.com Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting | June 27, 2023 20 NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Railbelt - 1Sell all existing transmission assets along the Railbelt and Bradley lake to AEA or new regulated utility for the net book value  Would likely require legislation to effectuate The “entity” would also absorb the debt and associated proceeds and complete the anticipated network upgrades committed from those recently issued bonds and other potential funding sources. Would eliminate transmission rate charges between utilities The consolidation would eliminate a significant amount of duplicative management and governance overhead Would optimize economic dispatch of all generation assets from Fairbanks to Kenai and eliminate the micro service territories and excess reserve capacity If third party to acquire the transmission assets----net proceeds received by the AEA should be utilized to complete the FERC licensing for the Susitna-Watana project Medium (5 - 10 years) AEALegislature; Dept of Revenue; Dept of Law; Railbelt Utilities NewRailbelt - 2 Invest in Grid InnovationConsider policies and/or regulatory frameworks that promote investment in innovative technologies. Conceptualize projects that use innovative approaches to transmission, distribution, and storage infrastructure to enhance grid resilience and reliability. Explore funding opportunities such as the DOE Grid Innovation Program. Medium (5 - 10 years) AEAUtilities; DCCED; Legislature; Dept of Law NewRailbelt - 3Evaluate multiple Railbelt utility governance structures and the impact to electricity costIdentify and prioritize goals and objectives for an effective utility governance structure. Establish a criteria and metrics to evaluate different governance structures. Compare the traditional governance structure against a not-for-profit or cooperative entity considering high priority goals and cost considerations. Short (2 - 5 years)AEA/RCADept of Law; Railbelt Utilities; ACEDNewRailbelt - 4 Evaluate multiple electricity supply & demand scenariosEstablish a framework to evaluate electricity supply & demand scenarios including metrics and criteria. Consider electricity supply models or methodologies that quantify multiple supply scenarios against the identified metrics and criteria.Short (2 - 5 years)ACEPB&V; AEA; Railbelt Utilities NewRailbelt Transmission, Generation, and Storage Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Railbelt SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Railbelt ‐ 1DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Railbelt Transmission, Generation, and Storage Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Railbelt - 5Identify how BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) and other Energy Storage Systems (ESS) could be successfully integrated and lower the cost of power. Identify successful ESS use in Alaska or other case studies beneficial for future use in Alaska communities. Explore all storage opportunities, including pump storage and battery energy. Evaluate opportunity to re-use or re-purpose existing infrastructure. Short (2 - 5 years) Railbelt Utilities/AEA B&V; ACEP NewRailbelt - 6Investigate lessons learned and case studies from Icelandic Energy Grid, including comprehensive policy decisions and rate allocation. Identify successful case studies from Iceland for potential applicability to Alaska, including interties, transmissions, and spreading rates across the jurisdiction. Include cross-topical references and discussion, regarding industry and food production. Identify components of the Icelandic system that are attractive to the committee, and flesh out applicability to Alaska. Break out into subtopics for future discussion - transmission, generation, cost sharing systems. Short (2 - 5 years) ACEP B&V; AEA NewRailbelt - 7Explore a scenario that articulates change to electricity demand and cost to convert residences to electric heatNote: Need to confirm if in scope vs out of scope with main task force. Short (2 - 5 years) ACEP B&V; AEA NewRailbelt - 8Evaluate opportunities to invest in/fund additional transmission and connectivity into a regional transmission commission to facilitate an equal playing field regarding shared online energy. Evaluate cost, solutions, and shared responsibilities. Short (2 - 5 years) AEA RCA; Railbelt Utilities NewRailbelt - 9 Adopt a Clean Energy Standard Adopt a Clean Energy StandardLong-term (10 years plus)State Legislature/Governor's OfficeRCANewRailbelt - 10 Develop Dixon diversion to increase Bradley Lake PowerIncrease Bradley output by 50% Medium (5 - 10 years) AEARailbelt UtilitiesOn-goingRailbelt -11 Complete FERC Licensing of Susitna-WatanaIncrease renewable on Railbelt by 50%Long-term (10 years plus) AEARailbelt Utilities: Private InvestmentNewCEDS Action (For Consideration) Railbelt Clean Energy PortfolioAdopt a clean energy portfolio standard that targets 80% clean energy while simultaneously reducing energy costs for users in the Railbelt by 2040.Long-term (10 years plus) Governor's Office RCA From CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)CEDS Action (For Consideration) Railbelt Transmission Line Capacity ExpansionUpgrade Railbelt transmission lines to increase transmission capacity.Medium (5 - 10 years) AEAElectric utilitiesFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Railbelt SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Railbelt ‐ 2DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Rural - 1Expand and Inventory technical assistance, training and workforce development to identify gaps, increase capability & capacity building activities for Training a Rural Energy Workforce.Explore technical assistance such as: workforce training programs, financing mechanisms, grant support, and economic development. Immediate (0 - 2 years) DCCED DOL; DOR ,P3 Partners NewRural - 2 Identify Economies of Scope to Provide Multi-Benefit Utility Projects. Identify development opportunities to be shared amongst multiple utilities. Expand transmission lines to connect outlying communities to the Railbelt (or other regional) grids wherever a cost-benefit analysis indicates a positive value. Develop energy projects in coordination with other utilities, such water, sewer, heat, communications (broadband, fiber) or other infrastructure projects (transportation). Share costs associated amongst participants to enhance affordability, and thus pass off affordability to the users. Medium (5 - 10 years) DCCEDDOT&PF; Utilities; DEC; ANTHC P3 Partners NewRural - 3Identify Innovation in Logistics Transportation to Improve Supply Chain Reliability. Identify new innovations in transportation that may support/improve supply chain logistics and reliability in rural AK - follow up with DOT&PF. Prioritize continuity of operations, and enhance redundancy where feasible. Immediate (0 - 2 years) DCCEDDOT&PF; Utilities; DEC; ANTHC P3 Partners NewRural - 4Identify Opportunities to Connect Rural Communities through Transmission Lines and Other Shared Energy Projects. Where feasible, identify opportunities to connect rural communities through transmission lines and shared energy to enhance redundancy and connectivity. Focus on cost-effective solutions for connectivity. Expand transmission lines to connect outlying communities to the Railbelt (or other regional) grids wherever a cost-benefit analysis indicates a positive value. Where feasible, install renewable energy systems such as wind, tidal, geothermal, and solar to reduce power costs in rural areas. Upgrade rural energy infrastructure such as power houses and bulk fuel farms. Medium (5 - 10 years) AEADOT&PF; Utilities; DEC; ANTHC P3 Partners NewRural Generation, Distribution, and Storage Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Rural SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Rural ‐ 1DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Rural Generation, Distribution, and Storage Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Rural - 5Identify a Funding or Financing Mechanism for Rural Communities including a "Local Match" for Federal Grants. Identify local or state funding mechanisms to "bridge the gap" commonly found with federal grant funding - the local match component is often a prohibitive hurdle for rural communities to receive federal grant funding. Medium (5 - 10 years)DOT&PF; Utilities; DEC; ANTHC P3 Partners NewRural - 6Create and implement a community outreach and education program to combat NIMBYism in energy projects in rural areas. Identify opportunities to educate local communities about proposed or future energy projects. Focus on benefits, particularly related to affordability. Curate outreach to known controversial projects, such as hydro-power or mining. Identify past projects that have successfully navigated opposition mounted by local communities and environmental NGOs. Develop case studies and a suite of tools to engage with opposition. Recognize concerns from those who are opposed, and implement mitigation actions as appropriate. Engage early and often, incorporate visuals and avoid fear mongering. Medium (5 - 10 years)DOT&PF; Utilities; DEC; ANTHC P3 PartnersNewRural - 7Invest in critical repairs and resilient infrastructure that may be at high risk to current and future natural hazards (wildfire, extreme cold, storms, etc.), to avoid energy disruptions and preserve continuity of operations. Invest in resilient energy infrastructure with focus on most frequent/severe hazards, instead of focusing on repair after the damage or destruction occurs. Reference case studies and future opportunities with FEMA as a funding resource. Deploy next generation renewable energy solutions throughout rural Alaska as legacy systems reach end of useful life, accounting for maintenance and training costs.Medium (5 - 10 years)DOT&PF; Utilities; DEC; ANTHC NewRural - 8Identify Energy Anchor Tenants to Provide Economy of Scale for Rural Communities. to share costs on energy projects and development. Examples include fishing, mining, industrial tenants. Explore opportunities where anchor tenants can partner with other business and communities for mutually beneficial projects, and enhance affordability. Medium (5 - 10 years) DCCEDDOT&PF; Utilities; DEC; ANTHC NewRural - 9Explore opportunities to enhance remote sensing and drone technology to support maintenance and operations of energy infrastructure in rural/remote locations. Explore opportunities to enhance remote sensing and technology for energy infrastructure in rural/remote locations. Medium (5 - 10 years)NewRural - 10 Invest in expanding the grid in rural areas to support micro nuclear Invest in expanding the grid in rural areas in cost effective ways to connect micro nuclear as it is adopted and built in the next 10+ years.Long-term (10 years plus)P3 Partners, UtlitiesNewRural SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Rural ‐ 2DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Rural Generation, Distribution, and Storage Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Rural - 11Support research, pilot testing, development, and production of oil, and natural gas to produce hydrogen fuel as appropriate for Rural Communities. Support research, pilot testing, development, and production of oil, and natural gas to produce hydrogen fuel as appropriate for Rural Communities. Medium (5 - 10 years) AGDCModified CEDs 2022 Plan ActionRural SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Rural ‐ 3DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Coastal - 1Enhance the affordability of energy in Alaska, including power, heat and transportation energy. Identify policy recommendations relating to the cost of heat as part of the Alaska Energy mix - power, heat, transportation.ImmediateAEAGovernor's Office; Dept of Law; RCA; AHFCNewCoastal - 2Establish Standardized Metrics Related to Power Generation Compared to Future Demand. Identify metrics related to power generation vs demand and potential future growth of both by community or service area. Short (2 - 5 years)AEARCA; Utilities; DCCED; ACEP NewCoastal - 3Integrate and Promote Heat Pump technology and systems (ASHP, SWHP, GSHP) as an Alternative Energy Resource in Coastal Alaska. Plan to promote heat pumps as an alternative energy/heat source in Coastal Alaska. Identify successful case studies for further implementation in Alaska (there is data available on heat pumps, e.g. Heat Pumps Center). ImmediateLocal LeadershipDCCED; Legislature; Dept of Law; Utilities; AHFC; Community Development Organizations; Local Governments; Tribes NewCoastal- 4Are modifications required for net metering integration into coastal community utilities and grids. Note: Subcommittee will coordinate to explore this topic further. Short (2 - 5 years)Tribes and native corporations; schools; Utilities; DCCED; AEA; RCANewCoastal - 5Identify how BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) and other Energy Storage Systems (ESS) could be successfully integrated into smaller, microgrid utilities and lower the cost of power. Identify successful ESS use in Alaska or other case studies beneficial for future use in Alaska communities. Explore all storage opportunities, including pump storage and battery energy. Evaluate opportunity to re-use or re-purpose existing infrastructure and stabilize grids. Integration of renewables. Acknowledge O&M of the systems.ImmediateLocal LeadershipB&V; AEA; utilities; AIEDA; local communitiesNewCoastal - 6Identify Funding and Financing Mechanisms to Build Transmission and Distribution Lines Across Alaska.Identify funding/financing sources a the federal, state and local level to expand transmission lines across Alaska. Prioritize innovative construction and product types, such as submarine transmission and underground transmission. Spectrum of timeframes based on local needs and initiativesLocal and Regional LeadershipUtilities; DCCED; AEA, AIDEA; local governments; tribal NewCoastal - 7Identify opportunities to support and streamline state and federal regulatory and land use requirements for coastal projects. Identify burdensome regulatory requirements at the state and federal level, with focus on hydro-electric power. Collaborate with appropriate state and regulatory agencies to promote solutions to streamline approvals, decrease costs, and expedite schedules. Medium (5 - 10 years) Office of GovernorOffice of Project Management and Permitting (OPMP), DNR; DOT&PF; DEC; DFG; Dept of LawNewCoastal - 8Beneficially electrify the Alaska Ferry Fleet to lower cost of transportation and assist in lowering the cost of power in coastal communities.Establish plan to convert ferry fleet to electric or electric hybrid vessels, using BC Ferries as a case study for implementation. Identify key ferry routes in Alaska, and evaluate for feasibility and implementation.  Work with AKDOTPF strategy and plans. Use electric demand forecasts to assist coastal region utilities and communities generation and transmission resource planning. Short (2 - 5 years)DOT&PFDCCED; Legislature; Dept of Law; Local utilities and IPPs NewCoastal - 9Partner with Alaska Native Tribes for Mutually Beneficial Energy Development, Production, and Distribution.Explore opportunities to collaborate with Alaska Native Tribes for mutually beneficial energy projects. Projects could include land exchanges, grid transmissions/tie-ins, or tribal-state joint energy projects. Medium (5 - 10 years) DCCEDAEA; Dept of Law; AEA NewCoastal Generation, Distribution, and Storage Subcommittee - Preliminary Actions Alaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Coastal SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Coastal ‐ 1DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Coastal Generation, Distribution, and Storage Subcommittee - Preliminary Actions Alaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Coastal - 10Educate and Train a Alaskan Workforce with Technical Skills in Electrification. Establish a workforce development program to educate, train, and retain skilled workers in electrification. Medium (5 - 10 years) DCCEDDOL; DORNewCoastal - 11Plan, fund and Implement Shore - to - Ship Power at State Ports and Harbors to Sell Excess Energy to Cruise Ships and provide energy market for coastal communities. Identify Alaskan Ports and Harbors for Shore - to - Ship Power feasibility and implementation. Identify funding sources, including Marine Passenger Fees. Partner with major cruise lines to ensure ships are electrification ready. Medium (5 - 10 years) AEADept of Law; DCCED; DOT NewCoastal - 12 Streamline Renewable Energy Development on Federal Lands.Establish a renewable energy land use designation or transmission line land use designation to allow small community renewable energy development on federal lands. Medium (5 - 10 years)DCCED; Legislature; Dept of Law; AEANewCoastal - 13 Support Hydro ProjectsBuild Hydro Projects to the benefit of business, industry and private sector opportunitiesShort (2 - 5 years) [licensed]Long-term (10 years plus) [unlicensed]AIDEANewCoastal - 14 Co-locate data severs with Hydro Plans Note: Emerging Opportunity - Subcommittee will review in detail in September 2023. Short (2 - 5 years)Private Industry DCCEDNewCoastal SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Coastal ‐ 2DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Statutes - 1Restructure the RCA with 3 commissioners and administrative law judges to streamline/ handle rate cases. Example states include: Iowa, Virginia, etc. Legislation should be passed (similar to Iowa House File 577) which allows for advanced ratemaking principles Under this legislation, significant projects/improvements are reviewed and approved in advance so all parties have clarity on costs, return on equity, and approval before proceeding (versus traditional pay and pray methodology) Medium (5 - 10 years) DCCEDAEA; Dept of Law; RCA; Legislature NewStatutes - 2 Streamline permitting for energy projectsStreamlining the permitting process leads to cost savings for utilities and contributes to cost savings for constituents. Permitting timelines should match the timelines for the expenditure of the funds for grant opportunities. Address staff turnover in the permitting agencies that cause delays in permitting.Medium (5 - 10 years) Office of GovernorOffice of Project Management and Permitting (OPMP), DNR; DOT&PF; DEC; DFG; Dept of LawNewStatutes - 3Establish state funding to help with local match for federal grant cost shareWork with the utilities to understand the feasibility of meeting the local match requirements for various federal grants. Establish a fund to contribute to grant match requirements that may pose a challenge to potential grant recipients. In some cases, utilities may need to raise costs to come up with the local match amount, which negates some of the benefits of being awarded the grant.Medium (5 - 10 years) AEALegislature; DCCED; OMB NewStatutes - 4Continue to allow transmission and distribution lines to share DOT right-of-wayNote: Need to coordinate with DOT and partners to understand issue to define a recommendation.Medium (5 - 10 years)NewStatutes - 5Evaluate similar states (such as Wyoming, North Dakota, etc.) for case studies and best practices regarding energy distribution, transmissions, and connectivity. Investigate through energy commissioner organizations and inter-state governmental organizations. Short (2 - 5 years)ACEPAEANewStatutes and Regulations Reform Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Statutes and Regulations Reform SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Statutes ‐ 1DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Statutes and Regulations Reform Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  APA Policy Position (For Consideration)Clarify statute on wildfire liability Alaska’s electric utilities work hard to maintain their rights-of-way for transmission and distribution lines but have no control over vegetation that grows outside their rights-of-way. This creates a scenario in which trees or other vegetation outside the right-of-way -- but tall enough to fall into the right-of-way -- can cause damage, such as a wildfire. The Alaska legislature can protect electric ratepayers by making clear in statute that electric utilities can only be held liable for damage, death or personal injury from contact between vegetation and the utility’s facilities if the vegetation is located entirely within the boundaries of the utility’s right-of-way. The state can help mitigate fire risk by continuing to provide funding for the mitigation of spruce beetle-killed trees, which are a significant problem in many parts of the state.Alaskans already pay some of the highest costs for electricity in the country. Making Alaska utilities, and ultimately their customers, responsible for damages caused by vegetation outside of utility control will drive those costs even higher. This could raise the prospect of financial difficulty for utilities themselves, as has happened in California. Medium (5 - 10 years) Dept of Law DCCED; AEA; LegislatureAPA Policy Positions (For Consideration)Statutes and Regulations Reform SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Statutes ‐ 2DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Statutes and Regulations Reform Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  APA Policy Position (For Consideration)Prioritize state investment in electric infrastructure and leverage federal funding opportunities Electric infrastructure is the bedrock of the state’s economy and the operation of the daily lives of Alaskans. The Alaska legislature must leverage every federal dollar available that benefits infrastructure with a strong emphasis on electric infrastructure – generation, transmission, and distribution. The legislature should direct the appropriate state agencies to work with electric utilities statewide to determine where funding can best serve Alaskans through investment in electric infrastructure, including renewable energy technologies and digital communications infrastructure. Concurrently, the legislature should call on Congress to focus on funding for electric infrastructure when passing spending bills and when funding federal agency operations. Many areas of the United States continue to benefit from long running federal power marketing administrations (PMAs) that have brought low-cost power to vast reaches of the country. Alaska has not been afforded such federal programs. Through robust state and federal investment in electric systems, Alaska would strengthen its economic health during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Short (2 - 5 years)Legislature; Dept of Law; OMBAPA Policy Positions (For Consideration)Statutes and Regulations Reform SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Statutes ‐ 3DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Statutes and Regulations Reform Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  APA Policy Position (For Consideration)Support reasonable and economic carbon reduction strategies that consider costs to consumers Carbon reduction efforts, whether legislative or regulatory, must allow for a technology neutral approach to decreasing fossil fuel consumption. Integrating renewable generation is one method of lowering reliance on fossil fuels, in addition to demand side management, energy efficiency, dynamic demand, and beneficial electrification, among others. Collectively, they are proven pathways to achieving carbon reduction. Above all, safety, reliability, and affordability must be considered as carbon reduction efforts are undertaken. For many years, Alaska’s electric utilities have developed renewable generation assets and integrated renewable generation into their systems while exploring additional, economically feasible renewable generation. This integration, while partially driven by a goal to decrease carbon emissions, is also reliant on what is technologically and financially feasible at the various-sized electric utilities around the state. It must always be taken into consideration when creating new laws and regulations that ratepayers ultimately bear the costs of any new generation assets. All legislative or regulatory efforts that aim to reduce carbon emissions and increase renewable energy should carefully account for the cost impacts on Alaska electric consumers. Short (2 - 5 years) DEC; DCCED; Dept of Law: AEAAPA Policy Positions (For Consideration)Statutes and Regulations Reform SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Statutes ‐ 4DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Statutes and Regulations Reform Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  APA Policy Position (For Consideration)Preserve Power Cost Equalization Endowment, using the Endowment only for its statutory purposes, ensuring all eligible communities can maximize the PCE program, and full funding the PCE program in FY 2023 The Power Cost Equalization (PCE) Endowment must be preserved and maintained to provide certainty for 200 Alaska communities. The PCE program is a vital, lifeline program that makes it feasible for rural Alaskans to have access to affordable electric power and for rural communities to have affordable electricity for streetlights, water and sewer facilities, and other essential infrastructure. The Alaska Power Association urges the Legislature to fund the PCE program from PCE Endowment earnings at 100 percent for FY 2023. Until there is a permanent solution to the high cost of energy in rural Alaska, the PCE program must continue providing economic assistance to customers in areas of our state where the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour can be three to five times higher than the cost in more urban areas. The state should also explore ways to address the diminishment of PCE for communities that have invested heavily in renewable electricity generation. Some communities that have lowered their reliance on fossil fuels by bringing on clean electric generation have seen lower PCE rates while still facing high electric rates. The state should allow for flexibility within the PCE program to accommodate communities that increase renewable generation but still face high electric costs. Short (2 - 5 years)AEAAEA; RCA; OMB: State LegislatureAPA Policy Positions (For Consideration)APA Policy Position (For Consideration)Alternative Uses for Coal RegulationsExplore alternative uses for coal, such as gasification and hydrogen production. Long-term (10 years plus)University of Alaska, Mining companiesFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)CEDS Action (For Consideration)Carbon and Sequestration RegulationsPursue carbon capture and sequestration to make existing resources cleaner.Long-term (10 years plus)From CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)CEDS Action (For Consideration)Hydrogen Roadmap and RegulationsDevelop and implement Hydrogen Roadmap for Alaska. Long-term (10 years plus) UAFGovernor’s Office, AGDC, University of Alaska Center for Economic Development, ACEPFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Statutes and Regulations Reform SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Statutes ‐ 5DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Statutes and Regulations Reform Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  CEDS Action (For Consideration)Establish Alaska Hydrogen HubSupport the establishment of an Alaska Hydrogen Hub and an Alaska Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) Hub. Short (2 - 5 years)Governor’sOfficeAGDC:,Governor’s Office, CongressionaldelegationFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Statutes and Regulations Reform SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Statutes ‐ 6DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Incentives - 1Develop a funding and implementation toolkit for energy projects in Alaska Funding and implementation toolkit for energy projects in Alaska will include: resources, guidelines, case studies, and a funding tracker of opportunities for Alaskan communities, ANCs, State Agencies, Utilities, etc. Medium (5 - 10 years) AEADCCED; DOR; ACEP; State Legislature NewIncentives - 2Provide commercial incentives to encourage anchor tenant InvestmentExplore potential incentive programs to encourage business or anchor tenant investment.Medium (5 - 10 years) AEADCCED; State Legislature NewIncentives - 3Encourage municipalities/local governments to provide a Property Tax exemption to attract private investment in new generation and transmissionAttract private capital in Alaska's generation and transmission infrastructure by exempting new assets from Property Taxes for a given set of years. Property taxes add to the cost of power and exemptions to property tax provide the outweighed public benefit of lowering the cost of energy for Alaskans.Medium (5 - 10 years) DCCEDAlaska Municipal League; Dept of Law; Legislature; OMB NewIncentives - 4Create a State of Alaska Income tax exemption on revenue produced from private investment in new generation and transmission.Attract private capital in Alaska's generation and transmission infrastructure by exempting new assets from State Income taxes for a given set of years. Income taxes add to the cost of power and exemptions to property tax provide the outweighed public benefit of lowering the cost of energy for Alaskans.Medium (5 - 10 years) DCCEDDept of Revenue; AEA; LegislatureNewIncentives - 5Provide liability exemption to Alaska Utilities for transmission forest fire issues in return for FERC defined "open access" on all State owned/subsidized and RCA regulated utility transmission lines.Transmission related fires can bankrupt utilities. Provide relief and risk exposure to Alaska utilities in return for FERC defined Open Access which would justify the public benefit for providing risk reduction and exposure to Alaska utilities.Medium (5 - 10 years) Dept of LawDCCED; AEA; Legislature NewIncentives - 6Encourage SOA departmental regulatory streamlining and prioritization. Provide regulatory streamlining and departmental priority for review and adjudication in ADNR, DEC, ADFG, DOTPF for new generation and transmission Streamlining the permitting process leads to cost savings for utilities and contributes to cost savings for constituents. Permitting timelines should match the timelines for the expenditure of the funds for grant opportunities. Address staff turnover in the permitting agencies that cause delays in permitting.Medium (5 - 10 years) Office of GovernorOffice of Project Management and Permitting (OPMP), DNR; DOT&PF; DEC; DFG; Dept of LawNewIncentives - 7Work with partners to gain State primacy on all federal land for RS 2477 and SAFETE Act Sec. 4407 Rights of way for new generation and transmission linesPursue State of Alaska primacy on all federal land for RS 2477 and SAFETE Act Sec. 4407 Rights of way for new generation and transmission lines in Alaska. Medium (5 - 10 years)Office of GovernorCongressional Delegation; DOT&PFNewIncentives - 8Work with federal partners to establish a renewable energy land use designation or transmission line land use designation in Chugach and Tongass Forest plans.Establish a renewable energy land use designation or transmission line land use designation in Chugach and Tongass Forest plans to allow small community renewable energy development and transmission line corridors on federal lands. Medium (5 - 10 years) DCCEDCongressional Delegation NewIncentives - 9Garner support from federal government to establish an Alaska Renewable Energy and Transmission Line FundRequires federal support to bring Alaska into this century with same level of service and transmission line capacity aligned with national standards.Medium (5 - 10 years) State Legislature DCCED; DOR; Dept of Law, AEA NewIncentives and Subsidies Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Incentives and Subsidies SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Incentives ‐ 1DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Incentives and Subsidies Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Incentives - 10Pursue State of Alaska primacy on 404 Wetland permitting for generation and transmission line projectstransmission projects bringing down risk, time, and project uncertainty.Medium (5 - 10 years) DECAEA; OPMP; Dept of Law; NewIncentives -11 Attracting Private Co-InvestmentAttract private co-investment for projects across the state and that reduce the costs of energy in Alaska.Short (2 - 5 years)From CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 12 Research, Development & DeploymentPartner with and continue to support R&D in the development and utilization of energy sources for deployment in Alaska. Encourage federal and state funding for pilot and demonstration projects. Align university research with the R&D needs of Economic Engines and Emerging Sectors. Target R&D at where we're going to be in 10+ years. Long-term (10 years plus) UAFGovernor’s Office, AGDCFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 13 Energy Technology Demonstration ProgramsExecute pilot and demonstration projects for energy technology that lowers energy costs and leads to commercialization, including through collaboration with entities such as AEA, Launch Alaska, and the National Laboratories.Short (2 - 5 years)AEAACEP, Launch AlaskaFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 14 Energy InfrastructureBuild energy infrastructure that increases locally based supply at lower costs, leveraging public and private investment.Medium (5 - 10 years) AGDCAIDEAFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 15 Weighted criteriaImplement statewide energy project evaluation process that takes into account low cost, local, clean, and lifecycle. Alaska could use the levelized cost of energy for infrastructure projects.Incentives - 16 Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy ProgramFully implement Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE) financing to help commercial building owners increaseenergy efficiency and reduce costs at the local government level. Improve current model to take into account local needs, and include utility on-bill financing. AEA to expand support and technical assistance for other communities. Explore State nexus (oil/gas) with property assessment, tax, incentives.Short (2 - 5 years)AEA, Local governments, Commercial lendersFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 17 Establish a Green Bank for FinancingEstablish a green bank to finance energy efficiency projects at the community scale in partnership with the private sector. Support initial capitalization by the State. Short (2 - 5 years)AHFCAEAFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 18 Evaluate PCE Reimbursement for IncentivesIncrease analysis of potential benefits of PCE, to reduce disincentives for lowering energy costs.Short (2 - 5 years)Incentives and Subsidies SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Incentives ‐ 2DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Incentives and Subsidies Subcommittee - Preliminary ActionsAlaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Incentives - 19 Federal Grants for Workforce Training Obtain federal grants under the IIJA to conduct workforce development, reskilling, and training, including as part of broad industry collaboration.Medium (5 - 10 years)From CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 20 Clean and Affordable Energy Deploymentas geothermal, hydro, tidal, and microreactors, including to develop a low-interest (.5% debt facility) loan program. Attract equity investors through low-cost capital. Explore interest match at the state level. Medium (5 - 10 years) AEA ACEP, Launch AlaskaFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 21 Statewide Energy PlanConduct and implement a statewide strategic plan for energy development. Short (2 - 5 years) AEAACEP, Launch Alaska, REAP, Alaska Power Association In ProgressIncentives - 22 Energy Incentives Programs StudyConduct a study on state level energy incentives programs across the U.S. with a goal of expanding energy incentive programs in Alaska. Medium (5 - 10 years)State of Alaska, Launch Alaska, AEA, AHFCFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 23 Federal Grants for RetrofitsUtilize federal infrastructure funds to retrofit commercial and industrial buildings for greater efficiency. Long-term (10 years plus) AEA, AHFC, DCCEDFrom CEDs 2022 Plan(For Consideration)Incentives - 24 Explore on-bill financing. AHFCIncentives and Subsidies SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Incentives ‐ 3DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)Data - 1Establish a Data Department within the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA)a. Fund, develop, and implement a technical and needs assessmentb. Fund, develop, and implement a capital asset planc. Develop and fund an operating and maintenance budget, to include the identification of potential funding sources and mechanismsd. Appropriately staff the department based on the technical and needs assessment Immediate (0 - 2 years) NewData - 2Establish an energy data governance committee that is responsible for establishingminimum protocols for data collection, quality, storage, use, and accessa. Form a technical advisory committee to draft recommendations on where the datagovernance committee should be supported and staffed, committee membership,scope of responsibilities, and other issues that may need to be addressed.b. Fund a long-term data governance strategy Immediate (0 - 2 years) NewData - 3 Fund data capacitya. Establish dedicated data collection and analysis positions in state agencies that areresponsible for collecting, analyzing, hosting, distributing data in formats that areaccessible, and liaising with the AEA Data Departmentb. Provide professional development and/or skills training opportunities for staff andother agency partners as it relates to data collection and analysis Short (2 - 5 years) NewState Energy Data Subcommittee - Preliminary Actions Alaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  State Energy Data SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Energy Data ‐ 1DRAFT NumberAction Name(e.g., Policy, Regulation, Program, Improvement, Activity)Action Description (100 words or less)Implementation Timeframe(Immediate, Short, Medium, Long-term)Lead Organization (Primary Organization Responsible to Implement)Partners & Collaborators(Supporting Secondary Organizations)Action Status(New, On-going, Withdrawn)State Energy Data Subcommittee - Preliminary Actions Alaska Energy Security Task Force(Draft as of 8/29/2023)Note: This is a draft, deliberative document for discussion purposes only. The preliminary action recommendations contained in this document have not been officially endorsed by the Alaska Energy Security Task Force at this time.  Data - 4 Improve existing energy data and collect new, needed data a. Fund a gap analysis of energy data, including existing data, accessibility, quality, age, and what is needed for decision making b. Revitalize, fund, and maintain energy data platforms and services that ensures the availability and accessibility of data c. Conduct a data audit of the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA), to include recommendations d. Expand the Power Cost Equalization (PCE) report and extent of such data reported e. Expand the definition of “energy data” by adopting the TAC definition, ensuring the term is inclusive of heat/thermal and transportation fuel data f. Understand how heating and transportation fuel is delivered and used g. Re-establish annual updates to the Alaska Energy Statistics report Short (2 - 5 years) NewData -5 Collect Data to Benchmark the Use of Net Metering.net-metering around the country. Have data and information to make decisions about applicability, benefits, and future implementation. Short (2 - 5 years) Utilities; DCCEDRecommendation from Coastal CommitteeState Energy Data SubcommitteeAlaska Energy Security Task ForceDraft as of08/29/2023Energy Data ‐ 2DRAFT 813 West Northern Lights Boulevard Anchorage, Alaska 99503 T 907.771.3000 Toll Free 888.300.8534 F 907.771.3044 REDUCING THE COST OF ENERGY IN ALASKA WWW.AKENERGYAUTHORITY.ORG MEMORANDUM TO: Curtis W. Thayer, Executive Director FROM: Bryan Carey, P.E., Director of Owned Assets DATE: September 5, 2023 RE: Railbelt Owned Asset Update Below is an update on the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) Owned Assets. Alaska Intertie • Drafting Wildfire Mitigation Plan for Alaska Intertie. • Working on the implementation plan for the Railbelt Syncrophaser system which will provide real-time measurement and collection of data from Homer to Fairbanks. • AEA is working with utilities to upgrade communications between Anchorage and Healy. • Inverter Based Resources Integration Study by NREL is underway. Bradley Lake Hydroelectric Project • Only major project his year is starting construction of new kit home. • Required Project Work. Chugach Electric Association proceeding with design and permits for the Sterling – Quartz section. Homer Electric Association will be acquiring contractors for the design and permitting of the Soldotna – Sterling section. • Dixon Diversion Project focusing on confirming energy and making changes to reduce construction cost estimate. • Dixon Diversion received $5 million from State for feasibility studies. Rural Transmission • Shungnak-Kobuk Tieline Transfer Agreement submitted to AVEC for review. • Craig-Klawok Tieline Transfer Agreement submitted to AP&T for review. • Bethel-Oscarville Tieline. o The tieline was built by APA. Working to find documentation for ownership. o Provided up to $100k to AVEC for emergency repairs through MOA. o Working with GCI for possible co-location/ownership of tie as part of upcoming broadband projects. GCI may survey the poles this fall. o AEA anticipates an inspection this fall or winter. 813 West Northern Lights Boulevard Anchorage, Alaska 99503 T 907.771.3000 Toll Free 888.300.8534 F 907.771.3044 REDUCING THE COST OF ENERGY IN ALASKA WWW.AKENERGYAUTHORITY.ORG MEMORANDUM TO: Curtis Thayer, Executive Director FROM: Bryan Carey, P.E., Director of Owned Assets DATE: September 5, 2023 SUBJECT: Quarterly Dixon Diversion Project Update The Project Dixon Glacier is located five mile southwest of Bradley Lake. In the last five years the toe of Dixon Glacier has receded off of state land exposing five hundred feet of outlet stream on state land. A small diversion dam could be constructed on state land and divert water in a power tunnel to Bradley Lake. Status: • In a letter to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and agencies AEA has removed consideration of the Dixon-Martin alternative based on cost, energy, and potential impacts. • Martin River and tributaries discharge and water quality being measured by stage gauge and monthly visits by United States Geologic Survey and engineering contractor. • Returning adult salmon to Red Lake being counted by video. • Summer 2023 provisional discharge data appears to prove out energy estimates. • State FY2024 capital budget has $5 million for Dixon project. Upcoming: • September 11 & 12 - Project optimization workshop to develop more efficient design and decrease costs. • October - revised supplemental hydrology report using summer 2023 data. • October end - Revised cost and energy to utilities. • Janaury 2024 – Agency meeting. • Summer 2024 – Studies. 813 W Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503  Phone: (907) 771-3000  Fax: (907) 771-3044  Email: info@akenergyauthority.org REDUCING THE COST OF ENERGY IN ALASKA AKENERGYAUTHORITY.ORG MEMORANDUM TO: Curtis Thayer, Executive Director FROM: Bryan Carey, P.E., Director of Owned Assets Audrey Alstrom, P.E. Director of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency DATE: September 5, 2023 SUBJECT: Hydroelectric Program Update Update Currently, nine Renewable Energy Fund (REF) hydroelectric-related projects are active. An additional project, Godwin, is also included in the summary since it would be a significant project. None of the projects are under construction. Projects are undergoing studies. The only change is that based on conceptual information Inside Passage Electric Cooperative (IPEC) has decided to not proceed with additional study of the Jenny Creek Project. An update of these Projects and a programmatic summary follows: Cordova Hydro Storage Assessment Project #7013013 Project would assess multiple potential hydroelectric sites for conventional storage. Funding will be used for preparing feasibility assessments of sites to best determine future development. Status: • Engineering contractor working on initial conceptual assessments. Funding: • REF funding of $294,642 for feasibility assessments. • Grantee: Cordova Electric Cooperative. Dixon Diversion Feasibility Project #7014022 Dixon Glacier is located five miles southwest of Bradley Lake (~25 miles from Homer). A small diversion dam could divert flow to Bradley Lake for storage and generation. Status: • 2023 feasibility work to focus on determining energy and optimizing configuration to reduce cost. • Martin River Alternative (power plant at Martin River) dropped over cost, energy, and possible impacts. Funding: • REF funding of $1,000,000 for feasibility. • FY2024 state budget has $5 million in for Dixon and Godwin hydroelectric Projects. Alaska Energy Authority Page 2 of 4 • Grantee: Chugach Electric Association, Inc. for REF funds Fivemile Creek Hydroelectric Project (REF) #7091226 Fivemile Creek Hydroelectric Project consists of permitting, final design, and construction of a new 250-kW (approximate), run-of-river hydroelectric project located on Fivemile Creek to serve the community of Chitina. Status: The project is currently on hold awaiting Grantee decision of which alignment to pursue. Funding: • REF grant $3.4 million. • Denali Commission grant of $2.88 million. • Grantee: Chitina Electric, Inc. Godwin Hydroelectric Project (Non-REF) Godwin Hydroelectric Project is located on Godwin Creek below the Godwin Glacier four miles east of Seward, Alaska. Melting of the Godwin Glacier has created a late below the glacier that could have an outlet dam. Storage at the lake, high head to power plant, high precipitation, and proximity to existing infrastructure would make this a beneficial utility scale project. Status: • Water gauge installed in April 2023. Funding: • Chugach Electric Association is currently funding all feasibility work. Jenny Creek Hydroelectric Project #7014027 Jenny Creek Hydroelectric Project is located approximately 0.75 miles from the boat harbor in Kake. The proposed project would be a run-of-river project that would provide additional electrical energy for Kake and support the existing Gunnuk Creek hydroelectric project. Grantee decided to not continue with this project. Project being closed. Funding: • REF funding of $62,368 to complete reconnaissance study. • Grantee: Inside Passage Electric Cooperative (IPEC). Nuyakuk River Hydroelectric Project #7014001 Nuyakuk Hydroelectric Project is located NW of Dillingham on the Nuyakuk River. The proposed project would be a run of river 12 MW capacity project that would provide all the annual electrical energy for Dillingham and five regional communities (Aleknegik, Koliganek, New Alaska Energy Authority Page 3 of 4 Stuyahok, Ekwok, and Levelock). The project was in abeyance and will resume the FERC licensing process and design in spring 2022. NETC is performing various natural resource studies for the feasibility assessment. Funding: • REF funding of $2 million for approved studies. • Grantee: Nushagak Electric & Telephone Cooperative. Thayer Lake (REF) #7050825 Thayer Lake is located on Admiralty Island near Angoon, Alaska west of Juneau in southeast Alaska. Grantee has prepared and submitted all applications for permits. The US Forest Service approved a Special Use Permit that will enable the project, including overhead transmission lines and modified road route, to be constructed once funds secured. Funding: • Partial funding for Phase 1 of construction (site preparation). • Total Construction cost estimate is $25 million. • Unobligated REF funds $4.9 million. • Grantee: Kootznoowoo Incorporated. Unga Man Creek Hydroelectric Project #7014035 Unga Man Creek Hydroelectric Project is located approximately 1 mile from False Pass. The proposed project would be a run-of-river 180 kW project that would provide approximately 80% of electrical energy for False Pass. This effort will complete final design and permitting. Reconnaissance and feasibility studies were completed before receiving grant funds and determined the project is technically, economically, and environmentally feasible. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) determined the project was non-jurisdictional. Grantee performing fisheries and hydrology studies. Funding: • REF funding of $321,000 to complete final design and permitting. • Grantee: City of False Pass. Water Supply Creek Hydro Final Design #7013010 Proposed Water Supply Creek Hydroelectric Project would be located near the existing Hoonah hydroelectric project Gartina Falls. The proposed project would be a run of river 300 kW capacity project. Design, Business Operating Plan, and land use agreements to be completed by December 2022. Operational and fuel savings from the project will be shared by all communities within the Inside Passage Electric Cooperative (IPEC). Alaska Energy Authority Page 4 of 4 Project received an additional REF grant for construction. IPEC Finishing design and arranging financing for construction. Status: • 95% design was started on by engineering contractors • Switchgear design started • ADF&G continued field work on Water Supply Creek Funding: • REF funding of $461,474 for final design. • REF funding of $3,538,526 for construction. • Grantee: Inside Passage Electric Cooperative. Hydroelectric Power Adak – Feasibility and Design #7015007 City of Adak is located on Adak Island. Lake Bonnie Ross is just South of the City. Project would assess three hydroelectric options and dependent on results prepare a conceptual design and start permitting consultations. Prior report identified several options using existing water infrastructure at Lake Bonnie Rose. Status: Gettng grant in place.. Funding: • REF funding of $497,650 for conceptual and feasibility assessment. • Grantee: TDX Adak Generating, LLC. AEA Infrastructure Awards: Submitted, Pending, Potential Section Number TitleFOA Number / Program GuidanceApplicable Stakeholders General Scope/Objectives Funding TypeStatus / Critical Program DatesApproximate Total Federal Funding Available for All AwardsAlaska Specific FundingMatch SharePoint of Contact Notes / Federal Receipt AuthorityIIJA Sec. 11401National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI)Guidance* States*Provide funding to States to strategically deploy electric vehicle charging infrastructure and to establish an interconnected network to facilitate data collection, access, and reliability.Formula GrantAEA application has been submitted and Alaska's Plan was approved by FHWA September 27, 2022$5 billion for 5 year period FY 2022‐2026 $52 million20%Audrey Alstrom(aalstrom@akenergyauthority.org)*Approved for $7,758,240 FY 2023*Future years funded through DOT*AEA may need to provide match for administrative dollars used by AEA ‐ maximum match from AEA $1,040,000, match will depend on amount of AEA administrative costs*Working on RSA by project need to follow up with DOT, and amendment to include next phase in MOA. IIJA Sec. 40109State Energy ProgramSEP‐IIJA ALRD*State Energy Offices*Support energy efficiency strategies.*Develop and implement energy security, resilience, and emergency preparedness plans.*Reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.*Deploy building and facility retrofit projects.*Increase investments to expand the use of clean energy resources and infrastructure, including the transmission and distribution system. *Educate and train the clean energy workforce to perform comprehensive energy audits and upgrades in state‐specific sectors.*Support state and local governments in helping underserved sectors and communities benefit from clean energy opportunities. Formula GrantAEA Application was submitted November 2022Award received April 2023$500,000,000 for 5 year period FY 2022‐2026 $3,661,930 NoneAudrey Alstrom(aalstrom@akenergyauthority.org)*Approved for $796k in 2023 Budget*Applied for $2,865,930 for FY 2024*AEA has receipt authority for SEP program and works in collaboration with AHFC on program.*Working on creating budget. Budget created for Security Plan. Need project management plans.*Award received.IIJA Sec. 40101(d)BIL ‐ Preventing Outages and Enhancing the Resilience of the Electric Grid, Formula Grants to States and Indian TribesDE‐FOA‐0002736States and Indian Tribes with Sub Awards as Follows: *Electric grid operator*Electricity storage operator *Electricity generator*Transmission owner or operator *Distribution provider *Fuel supplier *Any other relevant entity as determined by the Secretary of the DOE*Weatherization technologies and equipment*Fire‐resistant technologies and fire prevention systems*Monitoring and control technologies*Undergrounding of electrical equipment*Utility pole management*Relocation of power lines or the reconductoring of power lines with low sag, advanced conductors*Vegetation and fuel load management*Use of construction of distributed energy resources for enhancing system adaptive capacity during disruptive events including microgrids and battery‐storage subcomponents*Adaptive protection technologies*Advanced modeling technologies*Hardening of power lines, facilities, substations, or other systems*Replacement of old, overhead conductors and underground cablesFormula GrantAEA submitted application for FY22‐FY23 on 4/18/2023 Award notification received 8/2023PMP and demographic report due 11/2/23 $2,300,000,000 or $459,000,000 / yearApprox. $22.2 M (Fed) total for first two years with $3.6 M State MatchAdditional funding to be applied for FY24‐FY2615%Conner Erickson(cerickson@akenergyauthority.org)Bryan Carey (bcarey@akenergyauthority.org)*Program administered by AEA per Governor's Direction*Approved $12.1M (fed) and $3.6M match in 2023 Budget.*Applied for $12,110,523 (fed) and $1,816,579 match for FY 2024*Future Requests will be Federal Receipts $36,331,569 and match $3,633,155*Award notification issued for FFY22 and FFY23.*Working on RFA.FY 2022 VTO Program Wide FundingFiscal Year 2022 Vehicle Technologies Office (VTO) Program Wide Funding Opportunity AnnouncementDE‐FOA‐0002611*States, local governments, tribes*For Profit entities*Non‐profit entities*institutions of higher education*advance research, development, demonstration, and deployment (RDD&D) in several areas critical to achieving net‐zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, including: reduction of weight and cost of batteries, reduction in life cycle emissions of advanced lightweight materials, reduced costs and advanced technologies for both on‐ and off‐road vehicle charging and infrastructure, innovative public transit solutions, and training to increase deployment of these technologies among diverse communities.Competitive Grant / Cooperative AgreementAEA submitted application November 2022Award announced May 19, 2023 $                         957,000,000 $1,670,000 $417,500 Audrey Alstrom(aalstrom@akenergyauthority.org)*Applied for $1,670,000 for FY 2024* Approved $1,500,000 in FY 2023 (1004 UGF) for competitive matches related to Evs*AEA was awarded requested grant, announced 5/19/2023*AEA plans on 1 charging station per energy region at a minimum.* Funding expected in October 1 2023Page 1 AEA Infrastructure Awards: Submitted, Pending, Potential Section Number TitleFOA Number / Program GuidanceApplicable Stakeholders General Scope/Objectives Funding TypeStatus / Critical Program DatesApproximate Total Federal Funding Available for All AwardsAlaska Specific FundingMatch SharePoint of Contact Notes / Federal Receipt AuthorityIIJA Sec. 40502Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Capitalization Grant ProgramALRD*State Energy Offices *Provide capitalization for an energy efficiency  revolving loan fundFormula GrantApplication Submitted by AEA May 18, 2023Application needs to be updated by AHFC to add retrofits and audits as metrics.$250,000,000 $4,569,780 NoneConner Erickson(cerickson@akenergyauthority.org)*Approved for $796k in 2023 Budget.*Applied for $3,773,780 for FY 2024*One time grant amount, lump sum receipt*AEA has receipt authority for program and AHFC will manage program*MOU and RSA needs to be established between AEA and AHFC, include better defined role than previous MOUs. IIJA Sec. GRIP 3: 40103(b)BIL ‐ Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships: Grid Innovation Program*Railbelt Concept Paper DE‐FOA‐0002740* A state*Combination of two or more states*Indian tribe*Unit of local government*Public utility commission*Demonstrate innovative approaches to transmission, storage, and distribution infrastructure to harden and enhance resilience and reliability*Demonstrate new approaches to enhance regional grid resilience, implemented through States by public and rural electric cooperative entities on a cost‐shared basisCompetitive GrantApplication Submitted by AEA May 18, 2023$5,000,000,000$1,920,000,000 for FY 2022 ‐ 2023$0 100% (or 50% of total project cost)Bryan Carey (bcarey@akenergyauthority.org)*Funding request will depend on award being issued for competitive grant. AEA had 2 Concept Papers accepted and will submit applications for both. *Potential Request for Railbelt Concept Paper  is $413M Federal request and $413M match over 8 years*Second funding cycle anticipated Q1 2024IIJA Sec. GRIP 3: 40103(b)BIL ‐ Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships: Grid Innovation Program*Microgrid Concept Paper DE‐FOA‐0002740* A state*Combination of two or more states*Indian tribe*Unit of local government*Public utility commission*Demonstrate innovative approaches to transmission, storage, and distribution infrastructure to harden and enhance resilience and reliability*Demonstrate new approaches to enhance regional grid resilience, implemented through States by public and rural electric cooperative entities on a cost‐shared basisCompetitive GrantApplication Submitted by AEA May 18, 2023$5,000,000,000$1,920,000,000 for FY 2022 ‐ 2023$0 100% (or 50% of total project cost)Rebecca Garrett (Rgarrett@akenergyauthority.org)*Funding request will depend on award being issued for competitive grant. AEA had 2 Concept Papers accepted and will submit applications for both. *Potential Request for Microgrid Concept Paper  is $250M Federal Request and $250M match over 8 years*Second funding cycle anticipated Q1 2024IIJA Sec. 40552(b)Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant ProgramDE‐FOA‐0002883*States*Local Governments*Tribes*Assist states, local governments, and Tribes in implementing strategies to reduce energy use, to reduce fossil fuel emissions, and to improve energy efficiency.Formula GrantAEA submitted pre‐award sheet 4/14/23AEA submitted application on 7/28/23$550,000,000 $1,627,450 NoneShaylyn Storms(sstorms@akenergyauthority.org)*Approved for $2M in 2023 Budget.*One time grant amount from IIJA funding of $1,627,450*AEA working on edits to application with Project Officer.DODDefense Community Infrastructure Pilot ProgramBlack Rapids Training SiteDOD Grant* A state*Unit of local government*electric cooperativesEligible community infrastructure projects or any complete and useable transportation project;community support facility (e.g., school, hospital, police, fire, emergency response, or other community support facility); and, utility infrastructure project (e.g., water, wastewater, telecommunications, electric, gas, or other utility infrastructure (with necessary cyber safeguards))Competitive GrantAward Received $12,602,648 $110,000 from GVEARebecca Garrett (Rgarrett@akenergyauthority.org)*AEA applied with GVEA.*Match coming from GVEA* Received federal receipt authority for $12.7M in supplemental FY23 budget.*Need to add $3 million to existing award to bury the line.  Requested as supplemental FY24.IRA Part 2 50121 Home Efficiency Rebates ProgramProgram Info*State Energy OfficesGrants to states to provide home energy efficiency rebates. Formula GrantPreapplication Sheet due August 16, 2024Full application due 1/31/25$4,300,000,000Alaska allocation $37,368,480$37,368,480 0%Shaylyn Storms(sstorms@akenergyauthority.org)*Applied for $37,368,480 for FY 2024*AEA has receipt authority for program and AHFC will manage program*MOU has been signed*Working on early administrative funds application Page 2 AEA Infrastructure Awards: Submitted, Pending, Potential Section Number TitleFOA Number / Program GuidanceApplicable Stakeholders General Scope/Objectives Funding TypeStatus / Critical Program DatesApproximate Total Federal Funding Available for All AwardsAlaska Specific FundingMatch SharePoint of Contact Notes / Federal Receipt AuthorityIRA Part 2 50122 Home Electrification and Appliance  Rebate ProgramProgram Info*States*TribesRebates for heat pumps, panel/service upgrades, electric stoves and clothes dryers, and insulation/air sealing measures.Formula GrantPreapplication Sheet due August 16, 2024Full application due 1/31/25$4,500,000,000Alaska allocation $37,150,940$37,150,940 0%Shaylyn Storms(sstorms@akenergyauthority.org)*Applied for $37,150,940 for FY 2024*AEA has receipt authority for program and AHFC will manage program*MOU has been signed*Working on early administrative funds application  IIJA Sec. 11101; 11403Carbon Reduction Program*Port ElectrificationCRP Guidance*StatesStates may use Carbon Reduction Program funds for projects that support the reduction of transportation emissions, including: the construction, planning, and design of trail facilities for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other nonmotorized forms of transportation; public transportation projects; and congestion management technologiesFormula GrantNo application: formula funding allocated to DOT on annual basis Carbon Reduction Strategy Due 11/15/23$5,000,000,000$1,920,000,000 for FY 2022 ‐ 2023$81,878,583 20% Jim Mendenhall*DOT responsible for requesting receipt authority for FHWA funds.* DOT / DCCED to provide matching funds, potential use of Head Tax. * AEA evaluating potential for port electrification project and would manage program. IRA Part 2 50123 State Based Energy Efficiency Contractor TrainingWebsite*StatesProvide training and education to contractors involved in the installation of home energy efficiency and electrification improvementsFormula GrantApplication Due 1/31/24$200,000,000 $1,296,870 (first 50% November 2023 to February 2024)0Shaylyn Storms(sstorms@akenergyauthority.org)*AEA to apply and AHFC to administer program to support Home Energy Rebate Programs*DOE stated it was extending deadline to December but formal notification has yet to be released.IRA Sec. 60103Greenhouse Gas Reduction FundEPA Information*For Sec. 134(a)(1) eligible applicants are States, municipalities, tribal governments and eligible recipients defined in 134(c)(1). *For Sec. 134(a)(2)&(3) eligible applicants are eligible recipients defined in 134(c)(1).*134(c)(1) provides that an eligible recipient is a nonprofit organization that (A) is designed to provide capital, leverage private capital, and provide other forms of financial assistance for the rapid deployment of low‐ *Sec. 134(a)(1) for competitive grants to enable low‐income and disadvantaged communities to deploy or benefit from zero‐emission technologies, including distributed technologies on residential rooftops;*Sec. 134(a)(2) for competitive grants to eligible entities to provide financial and technical assistance to projects that reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions; and*Sec. 134(a)(3) for competitive grants to eligible entities to provide financial and technical assistance to projects that reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions in low‐income and disadvantaged communities.Competitive GrantAEA submitted NOI July 29, 2023Solar for All application deadline October 12, 2023Sec. 134(a)(1) $7 billion, Sec. 134(a)(2) $12 billion, Sec. 134(a)(3) $8 billionnoneGrants available up to $100M for programs that benefit less than 10,000 households; $250M benefitting 10,001 noneTBD *AEA/AHFC Submitted a NOI for the Solar for All Competition to pursue $100M*CDFA looking for partners on Sec. 134(a)(3), $5million potential for State. Conner completed survey for AEA to participate with CDFA.IIJA Sec. 40103(c)Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote AreasDE‐FOA‐0002970* Institutes of higher education*Utilities*Tribal nations*State*Local Governments*For‐profit entities*Non‐profit entities*Demonstrate innovative and replicable approaches to improve the resilience, safety, reliability, and availability of, and reduce the adverse impacts from energy generation by rural or remote areas.*Outcomes that can be scaled and/or have accelerated market adoption.*Transition to a decarbonized energy system.Competitive GrantFirst Funding Round $300M: Concept Papers Due 4/14/2023Application Due 6/28/23$1,000,000,000 over 5 years $0 20‐50% TBD*AEA did not submit a concept paper in the first funding round .  *Potential for future requests based on next 3 years of funding opportunities.IRA Sec. 60101Clean Heavy‐Duty VehiclesProgram Info(1) a state; (2) a municipality; (3) an Indian Tribe; (4) a nonprofit school transportation associationProgram covers up to 100 percent of costs for (1) incremental cost of replacing an existing heavy‐duty vehicle with a zero‐emission vehicle; (2) purchasing and operating associated infrastructure; (3) workforce development and training; (4) planning and technical activitiesCompetitive Grant, Rebates Application period was not open as of 7/7/23$1,000,000,000 TBD TBDTBDWaiting for guidanceFunding request depends on award being issued for competitive grant, FOA yet to be published.Page 3 AEA Infrastructure Awards: Submitted, Pending, Potential Section Number TitleFOA Number / Program GuidanceApplicable Stakeholders General Scope/Objectives Funding TypeStatus / Critical Program DatesApproximate Total Federal Funding Available for All AwardsAlaska Specific FundingMatch SharePoint of Contact Notes / Federal Receipt AuthorityIRA Sec. 60102Clean Ports ProgramPort Program Info(1) a port authority; (2) a state, regional, local or tribal agency ; (3) an air pollution control agency; (4) a private entityTo purchase and install zero‐emission port equipment and technology, conduct associated planning or permitting activities for this equipment and technology, and develop climate action plans to further address air pollution at ports.Competitive Grant, Rebates Application period was not open as of 7/7/23$3,000,000,000 TBD TBDTBDWaiting for guidanceFunding request depends on award being issued for competitive grant, FOA yet to be published.IIJA Sec. 40503Energy Auditor Training Grant ProgramDE‐FOA‐0002885*States*Covers any cost associated with individuals being trained or certified to conduct energy audits by— (i) the State; or (ii) a State‐certified third‐party training program.*Pay the wages of a trainee during the period in which the trainee receives training and certification.Competitive Grant; no formula allocation Application period was not open as of 7/7/23$40,000,000 $0 TBD Audrey Alstrom*Approved for $63,600 in 2023 Budget.*Applied for $63,600 for FY 2024* Future funding requests dependent on guidance. *AHFC  will likely be lead. Waiting for guidance to be issued. RSA will be needed with AHFC.Energy Future GrantEnergy Future GrantDE‐FOA‐0002870*• States/territories, local governmental entities, and tribal nations. It is suggested that applicants include at least 3‐4 or more of these governmental partners (e.g., a state and three cities in the states, several cities in a region, and a city and multiple tribes, etc.).Provide financial and technical assistance to local government, state, territorial, and/or tribal partnerships to design innovative, multijurisdictional deployment plans that maximize scalable energy affordability in disadvantaged communities.Competitive Grant / Cooperative AgreementApplication deadline 9/30/2023$27,000,000 $0 0% TBD*Whitepaper sent out 8.22.23*AML looking into potential opportunities.IIJA Sec. 41006(a)(2)U.S. Tidal Energy Advancement DE‐FOA‐0002845* Institutes of higher education* Indian Tribes* States* Local Governments* For‐profit entities* Non‐profit entitiesProvide the first large scale investment for the development of a tidal Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D) site. Fund a tidal or river current site development, preferably led by a project/site developer in the U.S., and fund in‐water demonstration of at least one tidal energy system. Topic 1 is the development of a 1‐5MW site and Topic 2 is community development of up to 500kW site isolated for grid.Competitive Grant / Cooperative AgreementTopic 1: Concept Paper Due 6/5/23Application Due: 7/25/23Topic 2: Concept Paper Due 7/13/23Application Due: 10/19/23$35 million for Topic 1$10 million for Topic 2Both topics include 2 awards for Phase 1, and then 1 project is selected to complete other phases.$0 up to 20%Audrey Alstrom(aalstrom@akenergyauthority.org) *Funding request depends on award being issued for competitive grant.*Concept Paper accepted for ORPC, AEA listed as partner. Full application due 7/25.IIJA 11101 and 11401Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grants (community charging & corridor charging)Coastal CommunitiesNOFO 693JJ323NF00004*States or political subdivisions*Metropolitan Planning Organization*Local Government*Special purpose district*Public authority with transportation function*Tribe*Territory*Program funds will be made available each fiscal year for Community Grants, to install electric vehicle charging and alternative fuel in locations on public roads, schools, parks, and in publicly accessible parking facilities. These grants will be prioritized for rural areas, low‐and moderate‐income neighborhoods, and communities with low ratios of private parking, or high ratios of multiunit dwellings.Competitive GrantApplication submitted by DOTAEA, DOT, Launch Alaska, and AML working on project development for community charging$2,500,000,000 $0 20%*DOT lead*AEA Contact Josi Hartley*DOT responsible for requesting receipt authority and match.*15M total project, $12M grant funding. DOT lead, AEA is co‐applicantDOT provides match for coastal communities. AEA to provide letter of support.IIJA 11101 and 11401Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grants (community charging & corridor charging)Fairbanks MPO (FAST)NOFO 693JJ323NF00004*States or political subdivisions*Metropolitan Planning Organization*Local Government*Special purpose district*Public authority with transportation function*Tribe*Territory*Program funds will be made available each fiscal year for Community Grants, to install electric vehicle charging and alternative fuel in locations on public roads, schools, parks, and in publicly accessible parking facilities. These grants will be prioritized for rural areas, low‐and moderate‐income neighborhoods, and communities with low ratios of private parking, or high ratios of multiunit dwellings.Competitive GrantApplication submitted by Fairbanks$2,500,000,000 $0 20%*DOT lead*AEA Contact Josi Hartley*FAST submitting application.*Fairbanks MPO $2M.  AEA to provide letter of support. $25k for AEA to participate in outreach. Do not need receipt authority.IRA Sec. 60114Climate Pollution Reduction GrantsEPA Program Info*States, Municipalities, TribesTo develop and implement plans for reducing greenhouse gasesFormula Grant for Planning and Competitive Grants for ImplementationDEC Submitted for planning formula grant. Implementation grants to open 2024$250,000,000 for planning$4,600,000,000 for implementation$3,000,000 for planning formula grantnone for planning TBD for implementationDEC Lead*DEC responsible for requesting receipt authority.* Should AEA follow up with DEC to discuss plan, may be competitive grants available in 2024 for EVs?Page 4 AEA Infrastructure Awards: Submitted, Pending, Potential Section Number TitleFOA Number / Program GuidanceApplicable Stakeholders General Scope/Objectives Funding TypeStatus / Critical Program DatesApproximate Total Federal Funding Available for All AwardsAlaska Specific FundingMatch SharePoint of Contact Notes / Federal Receipt AuthorityIRA Sec. 50131Assistance for Latest and Zero Building Energy Code AdoptionDE‐FOA‐0003055 (not issued yet)*State and local governments with authority to adopt building codeGrants to assist states and units of local government that have authority to adopt and implement building codes to (1) adopt codes for residential buildings that meet or exceed the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code; and/or (2) adopt a building energy code for commercial buildings that meet or exceed the ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1–2019.Competitive GrantFOA release anticipated October 2023$1,000,000,000 TBD TBDAHF will likely be lead. Waiting for guidance*AHFC will likely be lead. Waiting for guidance to be issued.IIJA Sec.  40511Building Codes Implementation for Efficiency and ResilienceDE‐FOA‐0002813*State and State Partnerships*Enable sustained, cost‐effective implementation of updated building energy codes to save customers money on their energy bills.*Create training materials.*Collect and disseminate quantitative data on construction and code implementation.*Plan and Implementation of updates in energy codes.Competitive GrantAHFC submitted application for $2.5M$225,000,000 $0 TBD AHFC lead*AHFC responsible for requesting receipt authority. AHFC submitted application for $2.5M.Cell Color / StatusApplication Submittedby AEAAEA plans to submit application /Concept PaperAEA waiting for guidance to be issuedEnergy program with other agency leadPage 5 DATE DESCRIPTION TOPIC AND AUDIENCE IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL TEAM MEMBER September 7-8, 2023 Attendee/Speaker/Sponsor Alaska Wind Workshop, Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center, Anchorage, AK In-Person Karen Bell Josi Hartley September 7, 2023 Media Inquiry Alaska National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Awards, Madeleine Ngo, New York Email Brandy M. Dixon August 30, 2023 Media Interview Grid Resilience Formula Program Award, Jamie Diep, KBBI AM 890 Phone Curtis W. Thayer August 29, 2023 Attendee/Speaker Houston Solar Farm Ribbon Cutting In-Person Brandy Dixon, Conner Erickson, Curtis W. Thayer August 29, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer August 28, 2023 Media Interview Aging Bulk Fuel Tanks, James Brooks, Alaska Beacon Phone Curtis W. Thayer Tim Sandstrom August 22, 2023 Attendee Alaska Utilities Working Group: Cook Inlet Gas Supply Poll Results Presentation Virtual Brandy M. Dixon August 21, 2023 Presenter AEA Overview Presentation to City of Seward In-Person Curtis W. Thayer August 21, 2023 Meeting United States Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities Service Assistant Administrator and Team In-Person Audrey Alstrom, Karen Bell, Conner Erickson, Tim Sandstrom, Curtis W. Thayer August 18, 2023 Staffed State of Alaska Exhibitor Booth Alaska State Fair Energy Day, Palmer Fair Grounds, Palmer, AK In-Person Brandy Dixon, Conner Erickson, James Mendenhall, Bill Price, Ashley Streveler, Karen Turner, Curtis W. Thayer August 16, 2023 Media Interview Grid Resilience Formula Program Award, Alan Bailey, Petroleum News Phone Curtis W. Thayer August 15, 2023 Presenter Renewable Energy Fund Round 16 and Alaska NEVI Plan, Alaska Municipal League, Office Hours Virtual Karen Bell Josi Hartley August 13, 2023 Attendee Renewable Energy Fair, Chena Hot Springs Resort, Fairbanks, AK Virtual Curtis W. Thayer August 11, 2023 Media Interview Grid Resilience Formula Program Award, Jack Barnwell, Fairbanks Daily-News-Miner Phone Curtis W. Thayer August 11, 2023 Media Interview Inflation Reduction Act, Riley Rogerson, Anchorage Daily News Phone Curtis W. Thayer August 8, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer July 18, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer July 17, 2023 Media Inquiry Follow Up: Special Section on Rural Energy, Tim Bradner, Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman Email Brandy M. Dixon AEA COMMUNITY OUTREACH Last Updated on September 7, 2023 (6-Month Look Back) 813 W Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503 • Phone: (907) 771-3000 Fax: (907) 771-3044 • Email: info@akenergyauthority.org • Website: akenergyauthority.org DATE DESCRIPTION TOPIC AND AUDIENCE IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL TEAM MEMBER July 14, 2023 Media Inquiry Special Section on Rural Energy, Tim Bradner, Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman Email Brandy M. Dixon July 12, 2023 Presenter Alaska EV Working Group Technical Session: NEVI Justice40 Benefits In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley June 23, 2023 Media Inquiry AEA Update, Tim Bradner, Alaska Economic Report Phone Curtis W. Thayer June 27, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer June 23, 2023 Media Inquiry AEA Update, Tim Bradner, Alaska Economic Report Phone Brandy M. Dixon June 16, 2023 Attendee Alaska Utilities Working Group: Cook Inlet Gas Supply Study Presentation Preview In-Person/Virtual Brandy M. Dixon June 16, 2023 Attendee National Hydropower Association: 2023 Alaska Regional Meeting Steering Committee Call 4 Phone Brandy M. Dixon June 15, 2023 Media Interview 2023 Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference, Amy Demboski, 650 KENI Phone Curtis W. Thayer June 14, 2023 Presenter Alaska NEVI Plan and Program Update Juneau Workshop In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley June 13, 2023 Presenter Alaska NEVI Plan and Program Update Mat-Su Workshop In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley June 13, 2023 Host Bradley Lake Hydroelectric Project Day Trip In-Person Curtis W. Thayer June 12, 2023 Presenter Alaska NEVI Plan and Program Update Anchorage Workshop In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley June 12, 2023 Attendee Alaska Utilities Working Group: Cook Inlet Gas Supply Study Press Release Discussion In-Person/Virtual Brandy M. Dixon June 5-8, 2023 Attendee Alaska Power Association (APA) Federal Legislative Conference: Joined APA and the Railbelt Utility CEOs in several meetings with Alaska's Congressional Delegation and the United States Department of Energy Washington, DC Curtis W. Thayer June 2, 2023 Attendee National Hydropower Association: 2023 Alaska Regional Meeting Steering Committee Call 3 Phone Curtis W. Thayer Brandy M. Dixon May 25, 2023 Media Interview 2023 Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference, Amy Demboski, 650 KENI Phone Curtis W. Thayer May 22-25, 2023 Moderator/Panelist/Speaker 2023 Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference Dena'ina Center, Anchorage, AK Audrey Alstrom, Justin Tuomi, Rebecca Cameron Dean, Tim Sandstrom, Curtis W. Thayer May 22-25, 2023 Exhibitor Booth 2023 Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference Dena'ina Center, Anchorage, AK Brandy Dixon, Taylor Asher, Katherine Aubry, Jennifer Bertolini, Karen Bell, Bryan Carey, Cameron Dean, Conner Erickson, Rebecca Garrett, Josi Hartley, Khae Pasao, Daniela Patterson, Bill Price May 22, 2023 Host/Presenter Alaska EV Working Group Meeting In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley May 22, 2023 Attendee National Hydropower Association: 2023 Alaska Regional Meeting Steering Committee Call 2 Phone Bryan Carey, Brandy M. Dixon AEA Community Outreach Page 2 of 3 DATE DESCRIPTION TOPIC AND AUDIENCE IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL TEAM MEMBER May 18, 2023 Media Inquiry Alaska NEVI Request for Applications, Madeleine Ngo, The New York Times Email Audrey Alstrom, PE Josi Hartley May 11, 2023 Attendee National Hydropower Association: 2023 Alaska Regional Meeting Steering Committee Call 1 Phone Bryan Carey, PE Brandy M. Dixon May 9, 2023 Host with Lt. Governor Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer May 4, 2023 Legislative Hearing AEA PCE Overview Presentation to House Energy Committee Virtual Curtis W. Thayer April 25, 2023 Host with Lt. Governor Alaska Energy Security Task Force Kickoff Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer April 21, 2023 Legislative Hearing AEA Capital Budget Presentation to House Finance Committee Virtual Curtis W. Thayer April 17, 2023 Presenter Alaska NEVI Plan Workshop in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley April 10, 2023 Media Interview Renewable Energy Fund Round 15, Tim Ellis, KUAC Phone Curtis W. Thayer April 7, 2023 Presentation AEA Renewable Energy Fund Round 15 Status Report to 33rd Alaska State Legislature Email Curtis W. Thayer April 7, 2023 Media Inquiry Dixon Diversion, Tim Bradner, Alaska Economic Digest/Alaska Legislative Report Email Bryan Carey April 6, 2023 Media Inquiry Dixon Diversion, Tim Bradner, Alaska Economic Digest/Alaska Legislative Report Email Bryan Carey April 5, 2023 Media Inquiry Dixon Diversion, Tim Bradner, Alaska Economic Digest/Alaska Legislative Report Email Bryan Carey April 5, 2023 Legislative Hearing AEA Modernizing Alaska's Largest Electric System Presentation to Senate Resources Committee Virtual Curtis W. Thayer Bryan Carey April 3, 2023 Host/Presenter AEA Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Program Presentation to AKEVWG Technical Session In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley April 3, 2023 Media Interview Diomede Power Outage, Megan Gannon, The Nome Nugget Phone Curtis W. Thayer March 31, 2023 Media Interview EV Infrastructure in Alaska, Sophie Applin, Alaska Beacon Phone Curtis W. Thayer Audrey Alstrom March 22, 2023 Host/Presenter Alaska Rural Power Plant Operator Working Group Quarterly Meeting Virtual Justin Tuomi March 21, 2023 Legislative Hearing AEA Overview Presentation to House Energy Committee Virtual Curtis W. Thayer March 16, 2023 Legislative Hearing AEA Overview Presentation to House Finance Committee Virtual Curtis W. Thayer March 15, 2023 Media Interview GRIP Grant Timeline, Brian Kassof, Alaska Energy Transparency Project Phone Curtis W. Thayer March 15, 2023 Host/Presenter Alaska NEVI Pre-Application Presentation to Public In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley March 15, 2023 Host/Presenter Bulk Fuel Working Group with Multiple statewide Agencies In-Person/Virtual Bill Price Khae Pasao March 10, 2023 Host/Presenter Alaska EV Working Group Technical Session: Uptime Requirements Presentation In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley March 9, 2023 Host/Presenter Alaska Wind Working Group Quarterly Meeting In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley March 8, 2023 Presenter AEA Hydropower Opportunities with Change to Alaska Section of the American Water Resources Association In-Person Bryan Carey AEA Community Outreach Page 3 of 3 Ribbon Cut at Houston Solar Farm https://www.akbizmag.com/industry/energy/ribbon-cut-at-houston-solar-farm/ 1/3 Ribbon Cut at Houston Solar Farm SEP 5, 2023 | ENERGY, NEWS At left, CleanCapital CEO Thomas Byrne holds one end of the ribbon, and AEA Executive Director Curtis Thayer holds the other, at right. In the middle, MEA CEO Tony Izzo holds the ribbon for Renewable IPP CEO Jennifer Miller, holding scissors with Renewable IPP’s co- founder and CFO Christopher Colbert. CLEANCAPITAL On a cloudy, rainy August day, developers of the Houston Solar Farm cut the ribbon on the largest photovoltaic array yet built in Alaska. The solar panels have a rated capacity of 8.5 MW, enough to power about 1,400 customers of Ribbon Cut at Houston Solar Farm https://www.akbizmag.com/industry/energy/ribbon-cut-at-houston-solar-farm/ 2/3 Matanuska Electric Association (MEA)—which is nearly three times more households than Houston itself has. Power of Collaboration Installation took about one year, since Anchorage-based Renewable Independent Power Producers (IPP) announced an investment by CleanCapital, a nationwide underwriter of solar and energy storage projects out of New York City. CleanCapital serves as the long-term owner-operator, and Renewable IPP’s spinoff Energy 49 is the official developer. The board of the Alaska Energy Authority also approved a $4.9 million loan through its Power Project Fund. “This ribbon cutting ceremony is significant because it demonstrates the power of collaboration and capital to advance the energy transition,” says Thomas Byrne, CEO and co-founder of CleanCapital. “In addition to construction financing, we will fund Renewable IPP’s operations to accelerate the development of the company’s solar pipeline here.” Renewable IPP began working with CleanCapital in 2020 when they were connected by Launch Alaska, a local nonprofit that works to accelerate clean energy projects. “Projects like the Houston Solar Farm are critical to suppressing future electricity costs and shoring up Alaska’s energy security,” says Jenn Miller, CEO of Renewable IPP. “To meet future electricity demand, Alaska must deploy proven and cost-competitive renewable energy technologies. It is up to us to make the change, and today we did just that.” Renewable IPP already operates a 1.2-MW solar farm in Willow. It was the largest in Alaska when it was built in 2018 as a 140-kW pilot project, enough to power at least twenty typical homes. The following year, the Willow array was expanded more than eightfold. Ribbon Cut at Houston Solar Farm https://www.akbizmag.com/industry/energy/ribbon-cut-at-houston-solar-farm/ 3/3 Harvesting Sunlight The 45-acre solar array is located near Houston High School, about 12 miles down the Parks Highway from a smaller solar farm in Willow. CLEANCAPITAL MEA has a twenty-five-year contract with CleanCapital to buy power from the Houston Solar Farm. Miller credits MEA with supporting independent power production, which diversifies the utility’s energy sources. MEA CEO Tony Izzo adds, “Member surveys indicate people want MEA to produce more power with renewable energy, but not at an additional cost. We believe this project achieves that goal while helping MEA responsibly meet the board’s clean energy target.” The project covers 45 acres near Houston High School with ballasted bi-facial photovoltaic panels. During construction, the project created thirty construction jobs. Maintenance of the solar panels is expected to employ five to ten part-time workers, down from last year’s estimate of as many as twenty maintenance jobs. Kodiak. Furthermore, the company said it has commissioned Netherland, Sewell & Associates to complete a similar inde- pendent expert report on the Alkaid hori- zon at the Ahpun project in Q4 2023 and that All-American Oil Rig 111 has been contracted for the re-entry of the Alkaid- 2 well to test the SMD horizon. Anchorage-based Great Bear Pantheon operates London-based Pantheon’s Alaska acreage. Great Bear Pantheon is run by Pat Galvin, chief commercial officer and general counsel. Fitch affirms Chugach’s A-rating ON AUG. 24, FITCH RATINGS, New York, affirmed Chugach Electric Association Inc.’s Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at 'A-'. The rating outlook is stable. The rating affirmation reflects Fitch's expectation that Chugach's leverage ratio, measured as net adjusted debt to adjusted funds available for debt service, or FADS, will migrate toward 8.0x through 2025 as the cooperative benefits from anticipated rate increases stemming from its recent rate filing, and continues to integrate the operations of Municipal Light and Power, which it acquired from the Municipality of Anchorage on Oct. 30, 2020. According to Fitch, leverage fell below 10x in 2022 but remains elevated after peaking at 16.2x in 2020 as a result of the $757.8 million purchase of ML&P and the issuance of $800 million in debt to fund the purchase and integration costs. Operating income and FADS have improved since the acquisition as a result of the combined utility operations, as well as the operational and financial effi- ciencies realized. For more details check out Fitch’s news release at: https://www.fitchratings.com/research /us-public-finance/fitch-affirms-chugach- electric-ak-idr-at-a-outlook-stable-24-08- 2023 Fairbanks Alliance snares Santos, Hilcorp THE FAIRBANKS ALLIANCE has captured two notable oil company speak- ers for its annual industry update forum on Oct. 5 in Fairbanks: Listed under featured speakers are Hilcorp Alaska Senior Vice President Luke Saugier, who heads up Hilcorp in Alaska and an unnamed speaker from Santos, whose Alaska subsidiary Oil Search (Alaska) is developing the big North Slope Pikka project. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Westmark Hotel Fairbanks. Saugier is the lunch keynote speaker for the event. Building Utqiagvik seawall ON AUG. 29, U.S. SENATOR Dan Sullivan, R-AK, participated in the sign- ing of the U.S. Corps of Engineers Alaska District Project Partnership Agreement with the North Slope Borough for the Barrow Coastal Erosion Project. This partnership, and the funding for the erosion project, is a result of efforts Sullivan, as a mem- ber of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, has made since in 2018, when the communi- ty of Utqiaġvik lost its ocean seawall that protects parts of the downtown area due to coastal storms. The lack of coastal protection for Utqiaġvik has jeopardized lives and threatened the integrity of the Old Barrow Landfill and critical community infrastructure, including the community’s only fresh water source. The community has been spending millions of dollars every year to build temporary dirt berms to protect the city. “I’m excited that at long last, we’ve taken the last step in a years’ long process to build a seawall to protect the communi- ty of Utqiaġvik,” Sullivan said, noting he’d worked hand-in-glove with North Slope Borough Mayor Harry Brower, Jr., and other leaders of the Borough, tribes, and the community of Utqiaġvik to secure funding for the seawall. That work included creating a new program for storm damage prevention and erosion projects with a 10% cost share for economically disadvantaged communities, like Utqiaġvik. In a press release Sullivan thanked the U.S. Corps of Engineers for their cooper- ation and the community of Utqiaġvik and the North Slope Borough for their strong leadership. “We can’t thank our partners in this fight for permanent costal protection enough,” said North Slope Borough Mayor Harry Brower Jr., especially thanking Sullivan for his “relentless work” on the project, which began in 2016. Solar farm event draws 100-plus guests THE HOSTS OF THE AUG. 29 grand opening and tour of the 8.5 MW Houston, Alaska, solar farm said the event went well with the sun shining brightly and more than 100 people show- ing up for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The hosts were the Matanuska Electric Association, Renewable IPP, CleanCapital and Alaska Energy Authority. The event included the ribbon cutting ceremony and a tour of Alaska’s largest solar farm. Jenn Miller, CEO of Renewable IPP, delivered opening remarks and served as emcee for the ceremony. The roster of speakers included Thomas Byrne, CEO of CleanCapital; Curtis Thayer, execu- tive director of Alaska Energy Authority; Mayor Edna DeVries, Matanuska Susitna Borough; Mayor Carter Cole, City of Houston; and Tony Izzo, CEO of Matanuska Electric Association. Following the remarks, the attendees witnessed the ribbon-cutting, led by Byrne, Izzo, Thayer, Miller, and Chris Colbert, Co-Founder & CFO, Renewable IPP. “MEA is excited to partner with Renewable IPP to expand the amount of renewable energy on our system,” said Izzo. “Member surveys indicate people want MEA to produce more power with renewable energy, but not at an addition- al cost. We believe this project achieves that goal while helping MEA responsibly meet the board's clean energy target.” —Oil Patch Insider is written by Kay Cashman 12 PETROLEUM NEWS • WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 3, 2023 W OORE YWHE WWE’R olville C OUU NEED U RE THERER S E os welopth SorN , ou need a dehen yW olvo the Cz taldeaV airbankom Ftfrducopr ors and 40 tatac40 tr acr r’e ep vill ,ks an ou neede ye where therr e on cendable fuel sourp e Budhort Pm ale tank far orand the P,agenchorA,,, tinuously moone c w, ersk, .d us the .yaB t of e vo s MOCCNIELLIVLOC OFONIsF om.colvilleincc continued from page 1 INSIDER LUKE SAUGIER From left to right: Alyssa Rinaldi, senior director, business development, CleanCapital; Jennifer Miller, CEO, Renewable IPP; Christopher Colbert, co-founder & CFO, Renewable IPP; Thomas Byrne, CEO, CleanCapital; Nate Collingridge, CTO & co-founder; Dock Vince Valenza, VP, acquisitions, CleanCapital. The Aug. 29 event included the ribbon cutting ceremony and a tour of Alaska’s largest solar farm in Houston.COURTESY CLEANCAPITALDAN SULLIVAN 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…1/12   Obituaries  •  Games  •  ADN Store  •  e-Edition  •  Sponsored Content  •  Promotions ADVERTISEMENT Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations Electric vehicle owners say traveling has gotten easier, but the rollout of the Alaska-led network has been bumpy. By Alex DeMarban Updated: September 3, 2023 Published: September 3, 2023    Alaska News  •  Politics  •  Opinions   •  Talk to usSections 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…2/12 Doug Quist "tops off " his Hyundai Ioniq 5 at the Level 3 electric vehicle (EV) charger at the Dimond Center before driving to his cabin in Hope, Alaska on Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023,. (Bill Roth / ADN) Electric vehicle drivers say Alaska’s charging network still lags behind many other states, even after a state agency deployed nine new stations to boost charging capacity along the highways. The Alaska Energy Authority, using $1 million from the Volkswagen emissions scandal settlement, has worked with private entities to have the charging stations installed for the drive between Fairbanks and the Kenai Peninsula communities of Seward and Homer. The agency had hoped to have all the charging stations up and running last summer to support the state’s growing population of electric vehicle drivers. But drivers complain that some stations were not turned on until recent weeks, and at least one, in Cooper Landing, is not yet operational. They say the machines are already outdated because technology has rapidly advanced. Curtis Thayer, head of the Alaska Energy Authority, said in an interview last week that the first charging site under the state-led system became operational at a steakhouse in Homer nearly two years ago. But pandemic-era problems stalled the completion of other charging sites, he said. Alaska was at a competitive disadvantage for getting gear because other states made much larger orders to expand their networks, he said. Supply chain snarls delayed shipments, he said. Once installed, labor and computer chip shortages delayed some stations from being turned on. “If they can’t get the electrician to make the final connection, or they can’t get the latest software from the vendor to make it operational, that’s not 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…3/12 the fault of the energy authority and it’s not the fault of the site hosts either,” he said. “It just happens to be the delays of the time.” ADVERTISEMENT Thayer said the state will also soon add nine faster charging stations between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Money for those is coming from $52 million that’s expected to arrive in Alaska over five years from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, part of the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law. Those will add four ports instead of the current two ports. Together with the current charging stations, drivers will be able to power up every 50 miles between Anchorage and Fairbanks, for the most part. The agency will soon announce where those will be installed, he said. Local entities will serve as site hosts and own the stations, just like before, once federal approval is granted, Thayer said. “We hope to have those starting to be installed probably next spring,” he said. ‘This could be bad’ Electric vehicle drivers, citing the existing problems, say they’re worried the new program will have a flawed rollout. Anchorage resident Randy Brown, who owns a Hyundai Ioniq 5, said he got an electric vehicle last summer, expecting that the charging stations would be fully functional. ADVERTISEMENT 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…4/12 Randy Brown prepares to remove the overnight charging gun from his Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric vehicle before driving to work on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023. (Alex DeMarban / ADN) But he hasn’t traveled this summer like he hoped. He’s fine with traveling to Homer, but he hasn’t made the trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks because he’s not confident all the stations or ports will work. One station, in Cooper Landing, still hasn’t been turned on. The site host, Grizzly Ridge lodging, is currently waiting for parts needed to rewire the charger, energy authority spokeswoman Brandy Dixon said in an email. The delay stems from issues that include the utility infrastructure and the site’s redevelopment, she said. Three other stations, located at Three Bears grocery stores in Chugiak, Trapper Creek and Healy, did not open until recent weeks. How do you typically discover new products beyond personal recommendations? Please select all that apply. Search engines Retailer direct and shopping sites (e.g., Amazon) 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…5/12 Dan Weisz, director of fuel operations at the stores, said the charging stations were fully energized in July. Wesiz said supply chain issues made it especially difficult to get transformers and switch gear on time, delaying the projects, among other issues. “That’s the way the world was for a couple of years, so it’s been out of our control,” he said. ADVERTISEMENT After hearing from Weisz in early August, the Alaska Energy Authority updated its online list to show the Three Bears sites are working, the agency says. Electric car drivers, however, have reported on plugshare.com that cars are unable to charge at the Three Bears’ Healy store. Kirk Martakis, who lives in Cantwell and leases his property to host a ReCharge Alaska charging station, said on Friday that the Healy station would not charge his Kia EV6. “None of them in Healy are charging your car,” he said in an interview. “The power is there (at the station) but it doesn’t do anything.” Brown said the state’s website incorrectly says the Healy station works. That could lead to a dangerous problem in winter, he said. “Imagine you’re a bit naïve, you buy an electric car and you’re told all these charging sites are open,” Brown said. “You journey up there, you find nothing works, and it’s cold out there. I mean, this could be bad. The energy authority shouldn’t be doing this.” ADVERTISEMENT 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…6/12 Dixon, the energy authority spokeswoman, said the agency reached out in recent days to Weisz, who said he confirmed that the chargers in Healy are working. Dixon said the sites on the network are privately owned. “Therefore, users must contact the site hosts directly when encountering a problem,” she said. Weisz, with Three Bears, said on Friday that operator error could be a possibility. He said drivers who are having any problems should talk to store managers. “If drivers are having problems, the message is not getting back to me,” he said. “They should probably talk to the store manager and make them aware of it, so we can make corrections.” Improvements Dimitri Shein, executive director of the Alaska Electric Vehicle Association, said the state’s charging infrastructure has improved despite the delays. He said some states have no such effort underway. ADVERTISEMENT 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…7/12 Dimitri Shein with his Tesla Model X at the Level 3 electric vehicle (EV) charger at the Dimond Center Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023. (Bill Roth / ADN) But he said private companies such as Anchorage-based ReCharge Alaska deserve similar credit for adding stations. Shein said road trips in an electric vehicle still require careful planning. Drivers call each other for the latest information about charging stations before heading out. Others plug in at friends’ houses along the way, if needed. Many of the state’s current charging systems deliver 50 kilowatts of power, so it can take more than an hour to fully charge a car like his Tesla Model X. He plans sightseeing trips for those waits, he said. “In Alaska, we’re still at the early stages of this, so you still have to be prepared for longer charge times and running into adventure along the way,” he said. 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…8/12 Shein said although the 50-kilowatt stations are newly installed, they’re “borderline obsolete” because charging technology has improved. He said some states are removing those to install faster charging stations. “Can our state energy office rise to the challenge and build out this new network when they haven’t really completed the old network?” he said. A national competition for chargers Despite the challenges with traveling, electric vehicle numbers in Alaska have jumped to an estimated 2,100 today, a 60% percent rise in less than two years, according to the energy authority. They’re expected to represent about 1% of all registered vehicles in the state in 2026, the agency says. ADVERTISEMENT The state doesn’t have much charging density, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Alaska has just over 100 ports, below all other states, the agency reported. That figure includes Juneau in Southeast, far from the state-created network. The city has lots of charging stations and electric vehicle ownership for its size, thanks to a limited road system and favorable electric rates based on hydropower. Thayer said the $52 million from the from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program will go a long way in Alaska, with its small population. A first round with part of that money will be used to build the nine new charging stations from Anchorage to Fairbanks, he said. The new sites will be more powerful, allowing electric vehicles to fully power up in about 25 minutes, drivers say. 9/7/23, 10:16 AM Amid complaints about Alaska’s electric vehicle charging network, state says it’s working to add faster stations - Anchorage Daily … https://www.adn.com/business-economy/2023/09/03/amid-complaints-about-alaskas-electric-vehicle-charging-network-state-says-its-working-to-add-f…9/12 Level 3 electric vehicle (EV) charger that uses direct current (DC) at the public pay use EV charging station at the Dimond Center Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023. (Bill Roth / ADN) Thayer said that in the next phase, the state is looking to add more charging sites elsewhere in Alaska. That includes from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula, in coastal communities like those in Kodiak and in Southeast Alaska, and elsewhere such as along the Richardson and Glenn highways, according to the state’s plan. Thayer said the state plans to use every bit of the $52 million over the coming years to build out the state’s electric vehicle network. “Our plan is to hit the different points we need to and do that,” he said. Do you have additional ideas for coverage on this topic? Do you have questions? Do you see an er ror? What's missing? Are you involved in the stor y or affected by it and have additional thoughts about it? Let us know here. 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…1/13   Obituaries  •  Games  •  ADN Store  •  e-Edition  •  Sponsored Content  •  Promotions ADVERTISEMENT Developers set to ip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm An increasing number of residential solar installations are also boosting supply in Matanuska Electric Association’s service area, and across Southcentral as well. By Alex DeMarban Updated: 3 hours ago Published: 15 hours ago    Alaska News   •  Politics  •  Opinions   •  Talk to us LOG IN SUBSCRIBESections 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…2/13 The 8.5-megawatt Houston Solar Farm, photographed on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, is comprised of 14,000 solar panels and sits on land that was burned during the devastating 1996 Miller's Reach Fire. When the project comes online it will double the solar output in Alaska. (Loren Holmes / ADN) HOUSTON — The largest solar farm in Alaska will soon begin harvesting power from the sun, helping suppress electricity costs in the fastest- growing region of the state. The new Houston Solar Farm, stretched across a brushy lot that in 1996 was scorched by the costly Miller’s Reach fire, will provide enough energy to power about 1,400 homes when it’s turned on, developers say. It will nearly double the solar energy generated in Alaska, they say. But the 8.5-megawatt project, located near Houston High School, is just part of the solar power picture in Southcentral Alaska, where solar panels are increasingly sprouting on rooftops amid gloomy forecasts that the region’s longtime power source, Cook Inlet natural gas, will dwindle starting in 2027. 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…3/13 The Houston Solar Farm, photographed on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. (Loren Holmes / ADN) When electricity starts flowing from the solar farm, some time in the coming weeks, the Matanuska Electric Association will buy it for slightly less than the cost of Cook Inlet gas, said Jenn Miller, chief executive of Renewable IPP, the project developer. That means the solar farm will likely generate significant and growing savings into the future for the utility, especially if costly natural gas needs to be imported from Outside as expected, observers say. Miller said the solar farm will produce eight times the electricity as the company produces at its nearby Willow solar project, built four years ago and previously the largest solar farm in Alaska. [A year after passage, landmark climate law is creating a ‘different world’ for Alaska renewables] ADVERTISEMENT The Houston farm won’t be the last solar project for the company. It’s already planning to build an even larger solar farm on the Kenai Peninsula. 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…4/13 Jenn Miller, CEO of Renewable IPP, speaks at a ribbon cutting event for the Houston Solar Farm on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023 in Houston. (Loren Holmes / ADN) “This is a first step of many here in the state,” Miller said, speaking at a ribbon-cutting for the Houston solar farm on Tuesday, held under a drizzling sky. Replacing natural gas The sweeping rows of panels at the Houston farm cover an area the size of 34 football fields, Miller said. And there’s space for more panels to be added in the future, she said. The panels are more efficient than those at the farm in Willow, she said. They’re bifacial, so they’ll absorb sunlight from above and from snow below. She said 30 workers, along with subcontractors, built the project over the past year. Planning took a few years. 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…5/13 The 8.5-megawatt Houston Solar Farm, photographed on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. (Loren Holmes / ADN) “I think we think of solar and renewables as the light, fluffy version of energy generation,” she told about 100 people on Tuesday. “I’m here to tell you there’s nothing light or fluffy about it. We’ve got over 200,000 pounds of steel, 14,400 solar panels, over 40 miles of wires, and over hundreds of thousands of nuts and bolts.” ADVERTISEMENT How do you typically discover new products beyond personal recommendations? Please select all that apply. Search engines Retailer direct and shopping sites (e.g., Amazon) Websites/in-app content, gift guides TV Other NEXT 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…6/13 Tony Izzo, chief executive of the Matanuska Electric Association, said studies show that Alaska utilities will need to import gas in the coming years, though he said they should be as limited as possible. He said the solar project’s output will be half the energy produced at one of the 10 gas-fired generators at the utility’s power plant in Eklutna. That can help stabilize rates as costs rise, he said. And it will help lower the utility’s $45 million annual gas bill, by about $100,000. Along with hydropower and other projects the utility is weighing, the Houston solar farm can help Matanuska Electric move closer to its goal of using 50% clean energy by 2050, he said. The utility got 16% of its power from clean energy last year, thanks largely to the Bradley Lake and Eklutna hydropower facilities, said Julie Estey, the utility’s spokeswoman. The solar farm will help the utility move closer to 17%. ADVERTISEMENT “You combine that with other things we’re doing and slowly you can take those offline, or cycle them differently to burn less,” Izzo said, referring to gas-fueled generators. Residential solar installations are also helping make a small difference in the utility’s service area and across Southcentral, though they collectively produce a little less power than the Houston Solar Farm. [Electric utilities for Anchorage and Mat-Su install $63 million Tesla battery system] Those residential customers, who can sell their excess solar power to Matanuska Electric, grew by 33% last year, to more than 400 ratepayers, utility reports show. In the Anchorage area, their numbers grew by 18%, 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…7/13 with more than 775 ratepayers now generating their own solar power, Chugach Electric Association reported. ‘Making more than we use’ Concerns about rising natural gas prices and dwindling supply is part of the reason that Mike Chmielewski and his wife, Lee Henrikson, recently expanded the number of solar panels atop their house in downtown Palmer. Mike Chmielewski and Lee Henrikson stand in front of their home in downtown Palmer on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. The retired educators recently expanded the number of solar panels on their roof to 15, which meets their needs in the summer, including for their small electric car. (Loren Holmes / ADN) The retired educators want to make as much of their own electricity as possible, Chmielewski said. ADVERTISEMENT Their 15 panels meet their summer power needs, including for their Kia Niro electric car. “That means I’m driving for free,” he said. 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…8/13 They also sell excess power to the utility for credits in Alaska’s sun-starved winter. They’ve cut their annual bill roughly in half, to less than $600, he said. After the new installation costs are paid for, he estimates in about seven years, the system will generate free power for decades, he said. “The payback is better than you can get on most other investments,” he said. Stephen Trimble, who co-owns Arctic Solar Ventures in Anchorage, said forecasts for a Cook Inlet gas shortage are encouraging more Alaskans to sign up for solar installations. “People are like, ‘Oh gosh, I should be thinking about where my energy is coming from, and how can I control the cost of that,’ ” he said. ADVERTISEMENT Federal tax credits that start at 30% for solar projects are also helping drive sales, he said. Many people are opting for larger installations than they once did, and projects are typically paid off in about 10 years, so they generate profits for the homeowners for two decades or more, he said. After a dip during the pandemic, sales for his company are up sharply in Anchorage and in the more politically conservative Mat-Su area, he said. “Being in a resource development state, we focus on the economic benefits,” he said of the projects. “It’s a good financial choice, and the other benefits you’ll get whether you like it or not,” such as environmental benefits, he said. Louisa Branchflower, who lives near downtown Palmer and works at a local nonprofit, said she and her family of five — if you count an exchange student from Belgium — began generating power from 20 panels atop their house this summer. They wanted to reduce their carbon footprint, she said. 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-multi…9/13 Solar panels cover a roof at Louisa Branchflower's home in downtown Palmer on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. The 20 panels produce more than the family uses during the summer. (Loren Holmes / ADN) She joined up with other households in the area to slightly lower project costs under the Solarize program led by the Alaska Center. The program facilitates group installations by multiple households, lowering prices. The only downside was a delay in getting the panels shipped to Alaska, perhaps because of the demand, Branchflower said. ADVERTISEMENT [Anchorage electric utility wants to raise the base rate by nearly 6%] On Tuesday, even under thick clouds, the system produced more power than the family needed, allowing some to be sold to the utility, she said. “It’s great that we’re making more than we use,” she said. Lots of solar opportunity in Alaska 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-mult…10/13 Miller said there’s room for solar power to grow in Alaska. She has pointed to Germany as an example. It gets a similar amount of sunlight to Alaska, but more than 10% of its power comes from solar energy. Miller declined to disclose the location of the company’s next project on the Kenai Peninsula. But she said plans call for a solar farm with about four times the power output of the new Houston project. Estimates show it will meet more than 10% of electricity demand in the service area of the Homer Electric Association, she said. “So it will be a significant contribution,” she said. As for the Houston project, Miller declined to disclose the cost. The Houston Solar Farm, photographed on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. (Loren Holmes / ADN) She said numerous partners helped make it happen. Financing came from CleanCapital, a New York-based firm that has acquired more than 200 solar projects across the U.S., and will own the Houston solar farm. The Alaska Energy Authority, a state agency, also provided a $5 million loan. 8/31/23, 8:56 AM Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/30/developers-to-flip-switch-at-alaskas-largest-solar-farm-as-rooftop-installations-also-mult…11/13 Miller said the Houston project can further prove up the benefits of solar power in Alaska, leading to new solar farms that, along with wind power and other clean energy, can help address the looming Cook Inlet gas shortage. “It opens the doors for more projects to be done and builds that momentum to address our energy supply issue,” she said. Do you have additional ideas for coverage on this topic? Do you have questions? Do you see an er ror? What's missing? Are you involved in the stor y or affected by it and have additional thoughts about it? Let us know here. Do you have additional ideas for coverage on this topic? Do you have questions? Do you see an error? Are you involved in the story or affected by it and have additional thoughts about it? Let us know here. 0/1000 Your contact info: Thank you for reaching out. A reporter may be in touch to talk with you about your experiences. We won't publish any information about you without checking with you first. Name Email address Phone Number Yes, I want to sign up for the ADN’s daily newsletter to get the latest updates on local news, politics, and other topics in Alaska. Please don't publish my name I am over 16 years old I accept the Terms of Service Submit Powered by Hearken | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy Alex DeMarban Alex DeMarban is a longtime Alaska journalist who covers business, the oil and gas industries and general assignments. Reach him at 907-257-4317 or alex@adn.com. Showcasing Leadership in Clean Transportation at the Port of Alaska https://www.launchalaska.com/blog/2023/8/29/port 1/4 August 29, 2023 Showcasing Leadership in Clean Transportation at the Port of Alaska By Penny Gage This month, Launch Alaska hosted state legislators and energy leaders for a series of Clean Transportation Tours at the Port of Alaska. Launch Alaska has been working closely with the Port to advance its modernization, resiliency, and decarbonization efforts, and we were excited to share this work with 20 government officials, policymakers, and industry leaders, including 11 legislators. Showcasing Leadership in Clean Transportation at the Port of Alaska https://www.launchalaska.com/blog/2023/8/29/port 2/4 Tour attendees including Alaska state legislatures, Launch Alaska and Port of Alaska staff. Photo credit Tim Leach. At Launch Alaska, we believe it is important that Alaska’s elected officials and policymakers understand that the Port of Alaska is critical infrastructure. And what better way to understand something than to see it firsthand. As Alaska’s primary inbound cargo facility, the Port supports local, statewide, national, and international economic interests. It is one of 18 Department of Defense-designated commercial strategic seaports and supports U.S. military missions across Alaska and around the world. The Port of Alaska’s operations are essential for timely disaster response and recovery throughout Southcentral Alaska and across the state, and it handles three- quarters of the fuel used at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, the world’s third busiest air cargo hub. Our host at the Port of Alaska and primary collaborator is the dynamic Jim Jager, the Port’s deputy director for programs and policy and facility security officer. Jim shared with tour attendees exciting upcoming projects at the Port to tour attendees, and also drove folks around the grounds by bus, pointing out earthquake stabilization efforts, the future site of a new solar farm, new dock infrastructure and even a Showcasing Leadership in Clean Transportation at the Port of Alaska https://www.launchalaska.com/blog/2023/8/29/port 3/4 beluga whale pod that was feeding right outside the dock. Highlighted during presentations were the Port of Alaska Modernization Program and the Port of Alaska Power Plan. Port of Alaska Deputy Director for Programs and Policy and Facility Security Officer Jim Jager hosts a tour for Alaska state legislators, policymakers, and community leaders. Photo credit Tim Leach. The Port Power Plan was developed in close partnership with Launch Alaska and Sandia National Laboratories, and will guide the Port in developing a connected microgrid with electrical management and control systems, a battery energy storage system, and renewable and thermal generation capacity that will improve the Port’s operational resiliency and provide backup power during utility power outages. The innovative vision of the Port Power Plan will reduce both power costs and greenhouse gas emissions, and Launch Alaska was proud to support this project. “The Port of Alaska is a critical piece of infrastructure for Alaska and the nation,” said Curtis W. Thayer, executive director of the Alaska Energy Showcasing Leadership in Clean Transportation at the Port of Alaska https://www.launchalaska.com/blog/2023/8/29/port 4/4 Authority, who attended one of the tours. “The Alaska Energy Authority is pleased to see microgrids like the Port of Alaska growing with renewable power generation and battery energy storage systems. We appreciate Launch Alaska coordinating this opportunity and look forward to working with those innovators involved in the Port of Alaska’s alternative energy needs.” The tour also discussed the Port’s vision for clean hydrogen production and use at the Port and elsewhere in Alaska, through collaboration with Port Mackenzie. Attendees were particularly interested in potential future clean hydrogen pilot projects and economic opportunities. “I’ve toured the Port before. Now I wanted to see what progress has been made to fix the crumbling infrastructure,” said Alaska Senate Majority Leader Cathy Giessel, who attended one of the August tours. “I was completely impressed with the direction the Port is headed - upgraded dock for newer vessels, a self-contained micro grid, renewable energy sources and so much more! All investments taking us from now to the future.” Launch Alaska is proud to partner with the Port of Alaska and showcase the potential for innovative solutions that enhance infrastructure, increase resiliency, and contribute to environmental sustainability. Touring the Port of Alaska. Photo credit Tim Leach. Alaska’s largest solar farm to go online in coming days https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2023/08/30/alaskas-largest-solar-farm-go-online-coming-days/ 1/3 HOUSTON, Alaska (KTUU) - It’s been just over a year since Gov. Mike Dunleavy and project leaders broke ground on what is now the largest solar farm in the state of Alaska. The Houston Solar Farm stretches 45 acres off Hawk Lane near the new Houston High School and is expected to produce enough energy to power approximately 1,400 homes. The farm is a partnership between Matanuska Electric Association (MEA), the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, CleanCapital, Alaska Energy Authority and Renewable IPP — an Alaskan-owned independent power production company. Construction on the project began in August 2022 and was completed this month, according to MEA. Julie Estey, senior director of external affairs and strategic initiatives for the Valley-based electric company, said the project aligns with MEA’s desire to diversify sources of energy. Alaska’s largest solar farm to go online in coming days https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2023/08/30/alaskas-largest-solar-farm-go-online-coming-days/ 2/3 “The big picture — especially with the uncertainty of the natural gas in Cook Inlet — is how do we diversify our energy portfolio so that we can keep producing affordable energy and have it be secure for our members?” Estey said. According to Estey, about 85% of MEA’s fuel is natural gas, with the other 15% largely coming from renewable hydropower energy. Recently, MEA’s board of directors set a goal to output 50% of its power through renewable energy by the year 2050. “We’ve had a carbon reduction goal to reduce our carbon by 28% by 2030, and we actually met that goal early,” Estey said. “So the board looked again at what we’re trying to achieve.” CEO of Renewable IPP Jenn Miller said the project will help meet gaps in local energy demand, as Cook Inlet natural gas projections show declining resources. “It’s really important for us to start diversifying our energy sources to meet that supply gap with things like solar, wind, hydro,” Miller said. “We need to start building and, really, it’s kind of a new growth area for the state.” Miller’s company has been working on the Houston Solar Farm project since 2019. Last year, the foundation piles were installed with the 14,400 solar panels getting installed this summer. She said the panels should be on the grid producing energy in the next week or two. “[What’s] really cool is it’s local generation that goes into the grid and is distributed to the MEA members and will likely get consumed right here in Big Lake and Houston,” Miller said. Miller said the solar panels are bifacial, meaning the backsides of the panels are able to capture energy from the sun’s reflection off the snow in winter months. MEA members will not see a cost increase on their bills due to the solar project and the farm is meant to offset the increasing costs of producing power for the company. On Tuesday, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the Houston Solar Farm to celebrate the completion of construction Alaska’s largest solar farm to go online in coming days https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2023/08/30/alaskas-largest-solar-farm-go-online-coming-days/ 3/3 A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Tuesday at the Houston Solar Farm to celebrate the completion of construction.(Matanuska Electric Association) Copyright 2023 KTUU. All rights reserved. 20 years ago: Myers says large Foothills gas fields not expected page 4 Vol. 28, No. 35 • www.PetroleumNews.com A weekly oil & gas newspaper based in Anchorage, Alaska Week of August 27, 2023 • $2.50 see CONSULTING RFP page 11 AIDEA issues ANWR consulting RFP, wants to progress seismic permitting The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority has issued a request for proposals for consultancy work in conjunction with anticipated seismic surveying for the agency’s oil and gas leases on the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The agency is seeking a consultant to complete and prepare the environmental field work and documentation for the permitting of a multi-year seismic sur- veying program. AIDEA says that it anticipates work being done under the proposed contract between Sept. 1, 2023, and Aug. 31, 2024, with the possibility of three additional one-year extensions. Bids must be delivered to AIDEA by Sept. 8, 2023. Federal moratorium Currently there is a federal moratorium on the permitting of any lease related work in ANWR, pending the completion of a supplementary environmental impact statement for the ANWR lease sale program. Recently the federal District Court in Alaska rejected an appeal by AIDEA, the State of see ATIGUN PANELS page 6 see SOLAR FARM page 11 Grand opening and tour of Houston, Alaska solar farm set for Aug. 29 On Tuesday, Aug. 29, a grand opening is scheduled for the new Houston Solar Farm, which is the largest solar installa- tion in Alaska. Invitations to the public were sent out by email on Aug. 22 by Renewable IPP, CleanCapital, Alaska Energy Authority and Matanuska Electric Association. The group will host a ribbon cutting ceremony and tour at the farm, which is on West Hawk Lane in Houston, Alaska. The event will begin at 3 p.m. Over 100 guests are expected, includ- ing Matanuska-Susitna Borough Mayor Edna DeVries, Matanuska Electric Association CEO Tony Izzo, and Alaska Energy Authority Executive Director Curtis Thayer, all of whom will be provid- ing remarks at the ceremony. Atigun Gorge panels: Another milestone in the Gil Mull efforts On Aug. 21, Tom Homza, chair of the Pathfinders in Alaska Geology Committee, sent out an email about the Atigun Gorge panels. The headline in his email was: Another milestone in the “Gil Mull efforts.” Here’s what Homza had to say: “I received an email this morning from Steve Taylor at the BLM saying that the Atigun Gorge panels are installed (and that a bus-load of researchers from Toolik camp was admiring them). “I’m attaching a PDF that shows the final design and a JPEG of a picture from the site on the Haul Road at the Atigun River bridge.” “I will never look at an ‘Interpretive Panel’ again without some respect for how much work actually goes into making these things! Thanks to Juilet Cutler (Nomad Studio), Bill Hedman (BLM), Trystan Herriot (DGGS), Richard Glen, Tom l ENVIRONMENT & SAFETY l FINANCE & ECONOMY l EXPLORATION & PRODUCTION P&A success Hilcorp Alaska plugs and abandons inlet relief well drilled in 1962 By KRISTEN NELSON Petroleum News Hilcorp Alaska has plugged and aban- doned an offshore Cook Inlet well, 17589-1A, drilled as a relief well in 1962. P&A for wells no longer in production and with no future utility is a routine requirement for companies working in Alaska. The P&A Hilcorp Alaska just complet- ed was not routine. It involved a legacy well in more than 100 feet of water which had 1960s era wellhead equipment for which replacement parts were no longer available. “I’m incredibly proud of our team for executing such a complex and challenging project,” Hilcorp Alaska Senior Vice President Luke Saugier said in a state- ment. “Hilcorp’s goal is to be the best operator of mature oil and gas assets. A crucial part of that is making significant investments to safely decommission end- of-life infrastructure and properly plug and abandon wells.” What is routine Hilcorp Alaska has an ongoing plug and aban- don program in Cook Inlet for wells no longer in ANS holds upper $80s Prices weaken on China woes despite big US reserve draw, tight supply By STEVE SUTHERLIN Petroleum News Alaska North Slope crude capped a three-day fall Aug. 23 with a loss of 90 cents to close at $85.68, hanging on to the upper half of the $80s two weeks after its brief foray into the $90s — with a close of $90.40 on Aug. 9. West Texas Intermediate plunged $1.46 on the day to close at $78.89 and Brent slid 82 cents to close at $83.21. The Aug. 23 ANS close represented a $2.47 premium over Brent. For another week, prices were subdued by demand concerns arising out of China’s economic data, but the bears appeared to be running out of steam. From Wednesday to Wednesday, ANS loss- es were light, with the Alaska benchmark off just 36 cents for the week from its close of $86.04 Aug. 18 to the $85.68 notched on Aug. 23. On the supply side, prices are supported by low inventories and a projected worldwide shortfall of Vision seeks drilling capital Can put new wells online almost immediately, Alaska gas market price enticing By KAY CASHMAN Petroleum News On March 3, Vision Operating LLC was given an 18-month delay in the mandatory contraction of its North Fork unit on the southern Kenai Peninsula by Alaska’s Division of Oil and Gas. The division had received a request in February from Vision Resources LLC and Vision Operating, both wholly owned sub- sidiaries of Gardes Holdings Inc., requesting the delay. The 18-month period goes through Oct. 6, 2024. According to the approval letter, which was sent to Gardes and Vision executive Mark Landt by Division Director Derek Nottingham, the 18-month respite provides Vision time to drill and evaluate potential resources outside the current participating area, or PA, which is the 800-acre NFU Gas Pool No. 1 in the 2,601.84-acre unit. But drilling costs money. In a Aug. 22 interview with Landt, Petroleum News asked whether Vision has any new wells planned outside the PA dur- ing 18-month period, and he said: “We have proposed locations that extend beyond our current PA, but the bottom line is drilling capital is hard to find. We are see P&A SUCCESS page 12 see OIL PRICES page 10 see DRILLING CAPITAL page 9 LUKE SAUGIER GIL MULL TONY IZZO MARK LANDT “If you’re a hedger, it’s best to worry about a price spike because if the Chinese fears level out and the focus switches back to the supply side, or lack thereof, it could get ugly very quickly.” —Phil Flynn, Price Futures Group PETROLEUM NEWS • WEEK OF AUGUST 27, 2023 11 Alaska’s #1 Marine Transportation Company. We take pride in providing excellent services in a very unique and challenging environment. Image by John Gomes.www.cookinlettug.comAlaska and others against the moratori- um. AIDEA has told Petroleum News that it has issued the RFP in anticipation of the imminent completion of the SEIS — the agency wants to be able to move for- ward with its ANWR exploration activi- ties as soon as possible, assuming that the moratorium will be lifted. It is also possible that some preparatory office work associated with the environmental permitting could be conducted while the moratorium is still in place. The lease sale program After many years, during which ANWR oil and gas leasing remained off limits, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, passed by Congress in 2017, mandated two lease sales for the coastal plain. The Bureau of Land Management conducted the first of these lease sales in January 2021, with AIDEA, Knik Arm Services LLC and Regenerate Alaska purchasing leases in the sale. However, in 2021 the incoming Biden administration ruled that the lease sale EIS was deficient, with BLM then placing a moratorium on the permitting of ANWR lease related activities until the EIS had been reworked. Knik Arm Services and Regenerate Alaska subsequently relinquished their leases, while AIDEA retained its leases. BLM has indicated that it anticipates issuing the draft supplementary EIS in the third quarter of this year. The SEIS development is now running more than a year behind its original schedule. A controversial program There have been vehement arguments both for and against the lease sale pro- gram. AIDEA, with its role of supporting business in Alaska, strongly endorses the opening of the ANWR coastal plain for oil and gas exploration and development — the state of Alaska sees the potential for jobs and state revenues from oil and gas activities in the region. The North Slope Borough, Arctic Slope Regional Corp. and Kaktovik Inupiat Corp, the Native corporation for the only village in the ANWR coastal plain, have also expressed strong support for the leasing program. Supporters of the program argue that the environment on the coastal plain can be adequately protected, and that any potential oil and gas development would have a relatively small surface footprint. The leasing program only applies to the coastal plain in the northerly part of the refuge. The Gwich’in Native people of north- ern Alaska and Canada have, on the other hand, expressed strong objections to ANWR oil development. The Gwich’in are particularly concerned about the possible impact of oil industry activities on the Porcupine caribou herd that calves on the coastal plain and is a primary subsistence food source for them. Environmental organizations are also strongly opposed to oil and gas activities in ANWR, arguing that these activities would cause irreparable damage to the natural environment in the refuge. —ALAN BAILEY continued from page 1 CONSULTING RFP Other attending guests for the rib- bon cutting ceremony will include Mayor Glenda Ledford of the City of Wasilla, city council members from the City of Houston, officials from the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, mem- bers of the Alaska Energy Security Task Force and the Alaska Energy Authority, Renewable IPP employees, and a variety of local companies. The 8.5 MW Houston Solar Farm is on Matanuska-Susitna Borough land. Construction on the farm began in August 2022 and was completed this month. It was developed and built by Renewable IPP. CleanCapital provided the financ- ing for the project construction and serves as the long-term owner-operator of the Houston Solar Farm. In addition to construction financing, CleanCapital’s investment funded Renewable IPP’s operations to acceler- ate the development of its pipeline of projects in Alaska. The Alaska Energy Authority and Matanuska Electric Association will purchase the power for local commu- nities. To attend the event, email Colleen Young at cyoung@cleancapital.com. —PETROLEUM NEWS continued from page 1 SOLAR FARM Construction on the farm began in August 2022 and was completed this month. It was developed and built by Renewable IPP. 4 PETROLEUM NEWS • WEEK OF AUGUST 20, 2023 ADDRESS P.O. Box 231647 Anchorage, AK 99523-1647 NEWS 907.522.9469 publisher@petroleumnews.com CIRCULATION 281.978.2771 circulation@petroleumnews.com ADVERTISING Susan Crane • 907-250-9769 scrane@petroleumnews.com OWNER: Petroleum Newspapers of Alaska LLC (PNA) Petroleum News (ISSN 1544-3612) • Vol. 28, No. 34 • Week of August 20, 2023 Published weekly. Address: P.O. Box 231647 Anchorage, AK 99523-1647 Subscription prices in U.S. — $118.00 1 year, $216.00 2 years Canada — $206.00 1 year, $375.00 2 years Overseas (sent air mail) — $240.00 1 year, $436.00 2 years “Periodicals postage paid at Anchorage, AK 99502-9986.” POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Petroleum News, P.O. Box 231647 Anchorage, AK 99523-1647. www.PetroleumNews.com Petroleum News and its supplement, Petroleum Directory, are owned by Petroleum Newspapers of Alaska LLC. The newspaper is published weekly. Several of the individuals listed above work for independent companies that contract services to Petroleum Newspapers of Alaska LLC or are freelance writers. Kay Cashman PUBLISHER & FOUNDER Mary Mack CEO & GENERAL MANAGER Kristen Nelson EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Susan Crane ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Heather Yates BOOKKEEPER Marti Reeve SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR Steven Merritt PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Alan Bailey CONTRIBUTING WRITER Eric Lidji CONTRIBUTING WRITER Gary Park CONTRIBUTING WRITER (CANADA) Steve Sutherlin CONTRIBUTING WRITER Allen Baker CONTRIBUTING WRITER Judy Patrick Photography CONTRACT PHOTOGRAPHER Forrest Crane CONTRACT PHOTOGRAPHER Renee Garbutt CIRCULATION MANAGER Bombay Deluxe The Spice of Life... Serving the finest Indian Cuisine in Alaska Traditional chicken, lamb, seafood dishes & Indian naan bread cooked in our Tandoor (clay oven). Vegetarian Specialties Delicious Appetizers — Samosas, Pakoras MIDTOWN ANCHORAGE 555 W. Northern Lights (Valhalla Center) Monday through Friday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 12-9 907-277-1200 Order on-line for pick-up or delivery at www.FoodOnTheWay.com www.BombayDeluxe.com SOUTH ANCHORAGE 1120 Huffman Road, Suite 5 Open seven days a week: 3-9 p.m. 907-644-4521 EXPLORATION & PRODUCTION Glacier asks to commingle at Badami well Glacier Oil and Gas, which owns Savant Alaska, is requesting approval from the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission for downhole commingling of the Killian and Badami oil pools in the Badami B1-38 well. In a July 27 request, Glacier is also asking for a waiver of the requirement to provide separation of the stream from separate pools as required in AOGCC regulations. The commission has tentatively scheduled a hearing on the request for Sept. 21 at 10 a.m. in its Anchorage offices but said if there is no timely request for a hearing, it may issue an order without a hearing. Information on whether a hearing will be held will be available after Aug. 29 by calling 907-793-1223. In its request Glacier said the B1-38 has been producing from the Killian oil pool since 2010 with steadily declining volumes. The company said the Badami oil pool is some 1,100 feet true vertical depth up hole from the Killian interval which is currently perforated in the well. The company’s plan is to perforate the Badami sands and com- mingle Badami and Killian production within the wellbore. The well was spudded in 2009 and reached total depth at 15,778 feet measured depth the next year, testing the Kekiktuk formation, which had zero flows. Up hole, however, the Killian, at 14,434 to 14,497 feet measured depth, achieved a maximum flow of 1,709 barrels per day. To date, Glacier said, B1-38 has produced 744,000 barrels, 203 million cubic feet of gas and “essentially zero water.” In the first producing year, daily production aver- aged between 300 and 400 bpd, with the latest production between 130 and 150 bpd. The Badami interval is some 1,100 feet up hole from the Killian interval, Glacier said, and logs “indicate prospective Badami sands correlative with those in adjacent producing wells.” To offset declining Killian production, Glacier said it intends to perforate 80 feet of the Badami sands and commingle those volumes with existing production. The company said operations on B1-38 are planned for the third and fourth quarter of the year. “Production trends from the Killian oil pool in B1-38 are well established,” Glacier said. “Following the initial testing phase after adding perforations to the Badami inter- val, any incremental oil production will be attributed to the Badami oil pool.” —KRISTEN NELSON CUTTING BOXES BOTTLE RACKS DRUM RACKS TANKS PALLET RACKS CARGO BOXES CARGO BASKETS ON-SITE SPILL UNITS PRESERVATION SERVICES API 2 CCU STANDARD O: 907-283-0580 C: 985-518-3377 42134 Kenai Spur Hwy. NFC & GPS Since 2008 l GOVERNMENT Transmission upgrade grants awarded $25.6 million in federal & state funding will be used to help fund improvements to Alaska electricity transmission grid resilience By ALAN BAILEY For Petroleum News T he U.S. Department of Energy has awarded a grant of $22.1 million to the Alaska Energy Authority to help fund elec- tricity transmission grid resilience in Alaska. The state of Alaska has awarded a required 15% match- ing grant, thus bring- ing the total grant funding to $25.6 mil- lion. AEA anticipates issuing a request for applications for grant funding during the fourth quarter of this year. The federal grant was awarded through DOE’s Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grant Program that was created within the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, passed by Congress last year. The funding can be used for projects that improve the resilience of high voltage transmission lines anywhere in the state. AEA also says that Alaska anticipates a further $38 million in federal funding together with an additional $5.4 million in state funding under the grant program to support grid resilience projects across the state. “Funding from the Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program will build upon existing efforts throughout Alaska to strengthen electric grid infrastructure,” said AEA Executive Director Curtis Thayer. “It will help incentivize critical investments that enhance energy resilience, increase benefi- cial electrification, and address other evolv- ing system needs for the benefit of current and future generations of Alaskans.” Thayer said that AEA anticipates admin- istering the grants in a similar manner to the agency’s Renewable Energy Fund. And under a separate section of the grant pro- gram DOE is awarding additional funding to rural Alaska through Alaska tribes and through Native regional and village corpora- tions. AEA has also applied for federal funding for transmission grid upgrades through what DOE refers to as the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership, or GRIP, program, another grant program established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The GRIP program is being implemented under three topics: grid resilience, smart grids and grid innovation — AEA has submitted applications under all three topics. The fund- ing is competitive. Thayer told Petroleum News that AEA anticipates hearing the result of the topic 1 and topic 2 grant allocations during this fall, with the results of the topic 3 allocations likely being announced during the winter or early spring. A focus of Alaska’s applications under the GRIP program is the electricity transmis- sion network for the Alaska Railbelt region. This network encompasses three main elec- tricity demand and generation regions: the Kenai Peninsula region; the Anchorage and Matanuska Susitna Valley region; and the Fairbanks region. These regions are con- nected via single transmission lines with rel- atively low power capacity. As well as hav- ing limited capacity, the single interconnect- ing lines create single points of failure in the system. Capacity limitations and reliability con- cerns currently place constraints on the achievement of power supply efficiencies and the sharing of new power supplies such as renewable energy systems across the Railbelt. AEA is already working with the utilities on a program to upgrade the trans- mission system on the Kenai Peninsula using excess payments that the utilities made for bond funding for the development of the Bradley Lake hydroelectric power plant in the southern Kenai Peninsula. One objective is to more efficiently and reliably distribute Bradley Lake power across the Railbelt — in addition to being renewable energy, this power is the cheapest in the Railbelt. l CURTIS THAYER “Funding from the Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program will build upon existing efforts throughout Alaska to strengthen electric grid infrastructure.” — AEA Executive Director Curtis Thayer 9/7/23, 10:51 AM Biden-Harris Administration Announces $48 Million In Grid Resilience Grants for States and Tribal Nations to Modernize Electric G… https://www.energy.gov/articles/biden-harris-administration-announces-48-million-grid-resilience-grants-states-and-tribal 1/5 Department of Energy Biden-Harris Administration Announces $48 Million In Grid Resilience Grants for States and Tribal Nations to Modernize Electric Grid AUGUST 17, 2023 Energy.gov » Biden-Harris Administration Announces $48 Million In Grid Resilience Grants for States and Tribal Nations to Modernize Electric Grid President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda Provides 6th Round of Funding to States and Tribal Entities for Grid Resilience, Enhanced Delivery of Clean Energy Across America WASHINGTON, D.C. — As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced three states and nine tribal nations will receive a combined total of $48.4 million as the sixth cohort of Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants. Supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and administered by DOE’s Grid Deployment Office, these grants will help modernize the electric grid to reduce impacts of climate-driven extreme weather and natural disasters while also ensuring power sector reliability. This funding will enable communities to access affordable, reliable, clean electricity while helping deliver on the President’s ambitious clean energy goals.   9/7/23, 10:51 AM Biden-Harris Administration Announces $48 Million In Grid Resilience Grants for States and Tribal Nations to Modernize Electric G… https://www.energy.gov/articles/biden-harris-administration-announces-48-million-grid-resilience-grants-states-and-tribal 2/5 “From remote and rural communities to urban centers, it is essential that every pocket of America has a strong and reliable energy grid that can deploy cleaner, cheaper power to homes and businesses, said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Thanks to the transformative investments in grid infrastructure under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are preparing the nation for a more resilient, clean energy future.” Since May 2023, DOE has distributed more than $455.5 million in Grid Resilience Formula Grants thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda. Today’s cohort of three states and nine tribal nations will receive a combined total of $48.4 million. Alaska will reduce the likelihood and consequences of natural hazard events like winter storms, extreme temperatures, and landslides causing disruption to normal grid operations and critical facilities. Grant funds will be used to reduce the energy burden and the cost experienced by customers within disadvantaged communities or tribal lands, as well as all areas served by the resilience investment, due to inadequate electric grid infrastructure. (Amount: $22 million) Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation will decrease the frequency and duration of electrical outages on the Reservation and address the energy burden experienced by low-income tribal members and disadvantaged communities. The funding will also enhance the tribal workforce, update failing infrastructure, and advance energy justice by focusing on projects on the reservation with a preference for projects on trust lands. (Amount: $458,123) Chalkyitsik Village will support a continuous supply of power in the system and will improve grid reliability by decreasing the number of outages and improving the ability to recover after severe weather events. The grant funding will also be used to develop battery energy storage for critical facilities and will support addressing the energy burden experienced by low-income tribal members. (Amount: $112,439) Citizen Potawatomi Nation will decrease the frequency and duration of electrical outages on the Reservation and address the energy burden experienced by low-income tribal members and disadvantaged communities. • • • • 9/7/23, 10:51 AM Biden-Harris Administration Announces $48 Million In Grid Resilience Grants for States and Tribal Nations to Modernize Electric G… https://www.energy.gov/articles/biden-harris-administration-announces-48-million-grid-resilience-grants-states-and-tribal 3/5 The grant funds will also enhance the tribal workforce, allow updates to failing infrastructure, and advance energy justice by focusing on projects on the reservation. (Amount: $1.3 million) Fort Sill Apache Tribe will ensure critical tribal facilities are not impacted by disruptive events such as extreme weather and will implement improved controls, automation, and communication technology to enhance local grid operations and control. Grant funds will also be used to address outdated or failing infrastructure and support tribal workforce development to support grid resilience measures. (Amount: $684,000) Galena Village (aka Louden Village) will support a continuous supply of power to consumers, reduce outage risks, develop projects and approaches for backup power, and advance partnerships with utilities to develop clean energy. (Amount: $112,894) Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians will ensure critical tribal community facilities are not impacted by extreme weather and other disruptive events and will address the energy burden faced by the tribal community. The grant funds will also be used to increase the skilled workforce within the tribe, support good-paying jobs, address capacity limitations, and invest in modernizing the energy infrastructure. (Amount: $183,155) Native Village of Port Graham will maintain a continuous supply of power that is acceptable to consumers, and will reduce outage risks, and improve the ability to recover from disruptive events. The grant funds will also support battery storage for critical facilities and improve partnerships between the Tribe and utilities to support affordability and improved service to tribal members. (Amount: $181,493) Seneca Nation of Indians will ensure critical community facilities are not impacted by extreme weather events and will address the energy burden experienced by low-income tribal members. The grant funding will also be used to increase the skilled tribal energy workforce, and invest in modernizing the electric grid, including addressing outdated or failing infrastructure. (Amount: $479,021) Summit Lake Paiute Tribe will ensure critical facilities are not impacted by disruptive events by providing backup power to enhance system adaptive capacity and will reduce disruptions to grid operations from extreme weather events. The grant funds will also increase the tribal workforce to support energy • • • • • • 9/7/23, 10:51 AM Biden-Harris Administration Announces $48 Million In Grid Resilience Grants for States and Tribal Nations to Modernize Electric G… https://www.energy.gov/articles/biden-harris-administration-announces-48-million-grid-resilience-grants-states-and-tribal 4/5 resilience, and will allow investments in grid modernization, while increasing electrification in response to evolving needs. (Amount: $115,833) Utah will reduce the overall negative impacts of disruptive events on Utah’s residential and commercial power end users. Laborers and mechanics employed on projects selected through Utah’s competitive solicitation will receive wages equivalent to or better than prevailing wages on similar projects in the area and grant funds will be used to retain an appropriately skilled workforce which may include partnering with labor unions and/or educational institutions with a particular focus on underrepresented or historically excluded workers. (Amount: $12 million) Virginia will conduct enhanced grid modeling for transmission and distribution planning to reduce disruptions by informing strategic investment and deployment of innovative technologies. Grant funds will be used to address outdated or failing energy infrastructure equipment and materials like power lines, power poles, transformers, and bucket trucks serving Virginia communities. (Amount: $11 million) Over the next five years, the Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants will distribute a total of $2.3 billion to States, Territories, and federally recognized tribes, including Alaska Native Regional Corporations and Alaska Native Village Corporations, based on a formula that includes factors such as population size, land area, probability and severity of disruptive events, and a locality’s historical expenditures on mitigation efforts. The States, Territories, and tribes will then award these funds to complete a diverse set of projects, with priority given to efforts that generate the greatest community benefit while providing clean, affordable, and reliable energy. Grid Resilience Formula Grant recipients are being announced on a rolling basis as applications are received. The fiscal year (FY) 22 and FY 23 application deadline for States and Territories was May 31, 2023. The FY 22 and FY 23 application deadline for Indian tribes, including Alaska Native Corporations, is August 31, 2023, at 11:59 pm ET (with a mail-in option post-marked by this date). Learn more about the Grid Deployment Office. ### • • Alaska Company Exploring Geothermal Energy on Mt. Augustine https://www.kdll.org/2023-08-15/alaska-company-exploring-geothermal-energy-on-mt-augustine 1/3 Alaska Company Exploring Geothermal Energy on Mt. Augustine KDLL | By Jamie Diep Published August 15, 2023 at 2:33 PM AKDT Lopez, Taryn / Image Courtesy Of The AVO/UAF -GI. Aerial view of Augustine. Alaska Company Exploring Geothermal Energy on Mt. Augustine https://www.kdll.org/2023-08-15/alaska-company-exploring-geothermal-energy-on-mt-augustine 2/3 Many people in the Kenai Peninsula get their electricity from natural gas. Geothermal energy developer GeoAlaska is looking to change that. Late last month, they began collecting data of magnetic and gravitational forces on Mount Augustine to determine if there are any viable geothermal reservoirs. Geothermal reservoirs provide the heat and fluid needed to generate electricity. The project is currently funded by GeoAlaska founder Paul Craig, GeoAlaska stakeholder Erik Anderson, Ignis Energy and Shenton James Party, Limited. Craig hopes to bring geothermal energy to Alaskans in the Railbelt Region. “Our intention is to provide inexpensive power for generations to come,” Craig said, “So the Alaskan economy can develop with predictably reasonably priced, sustainable baseload power being generated without loading the atmosphere with more carbon.” But, developing geothermal energy isn’t without its challenges. According to the Alaska Energy Authority, a viable geothermal energy source needs enough heat and fluid flow, as well as a proper reservoir of geothermal fluids, which is what the current round of data collection will look for. And then, there is the nature of the mountain itself. John Power, a research geophysicist at the United States Geological Survey Alaska Volcano Observatory, said that while it hasn’t been as active in recent years, they still monitor Mount Augustine in case of an eruption. “There are about five volcanoes in the state that we consider to be very high hazard and Augustine is one of those,” Power said. Alaska Company Exploring Geothermal Energy on Mt. Augustine https://www.kdll.org/2023-08-15/alaska-company-exploring-geothermal-energy-on-mt-augustine 3/3 Other organizations are also looking into Augustine as a potential energy source. In May, the state legislature approved $17 million to go towards projects across the state. The money went into the Renewable Energy Fund. As a result, the Alaska Electric & Energy Cooperative of Homer Electric Association received a grant to fund their work as they determine the feasibility of transferring energy from the volcano to the electric grid at Anchor Point. Homer Electric Association is currently waiting to finalize the grant agreement before beginning work on the project. Homer Electric Association director of member relations Keriann Baker said that if it is viable, Mount Augustine could increase the number of energy sources available to the Railbelt Region. “It's a really good opportunity for us to diversify our energy mix so that we're creating energy from just a, a wide variety and we're not pigeonholed into any one resource,” she said, “For us, providing power at the lowest cost possible from a diverse, wide array of sources is our goal.” Homer Electric Association agreed to collaborate with GeoAlaska on bringing geothermal energy to the region, although details of the agreement are currently not available to the public. GeoAlaska’s data collection will continue for the next couple weeks followed by analysis and interpretation over the next few months. A long-awaited hydro project in Angoon can proceed, if funding can be found. https://alaskapublic.org/2023/08/15/a-long-awaited-hydro-project-in-angoon-can-proceed-if-funding-can-be-found/ 1/4 A long-awaited hydro project in Angoon can proceed, if funding can be found By Robert Woolsey, KCAW - Sitka - August 15, 2023 The Thayer Creek Hydro project would use a 40-foot high dam to impound water over an area of 7 acres. (Kootznoowoo, Inc. image) A new hydroelectric project on Admiralty Island has the green light – four decades after it was approved by Congress. In late June, the U.S. Forest Service granted a special use permit for a small-scale hydro plant on Thayer Creek, near the town of Angoon. The local Alaska Native village corporation is now going after construction A long-awaited hydro project in Angoon can proceed, if funding can be found. https://alaskapublic.org/2023/08/15/a-long-awaited-hydro-project-in-angoon-can-proceed-if-funding-can-be-found/ 2/4 funding for the project, which is expected to fully replace costly diesel power. The construction of a run-of-river hydro development in the Admiralty Island National Monument was authorized by ANILCA, the 1980 Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. The project is being propelled by Kootznoowoo, Inc., Angoon’s village corporation. It’s unusual for a Native corporation to build a public utility. Jon Wunrow, Kootznoowoo’s director of natural resources, believes the right people were in the room as ANILCA was being hammered out by the presidential administration at the time. “My hunch is that the leaders from Angoon who went to D.C. and met with (President) Jimmy Carter to kind of broker this part of the deal probably had representation from the village corp,” Wunrow said. “And I think that’s maybe how they (Kootznoowoo) got named.” Thayer Creek is about three miles from Angoon. Over the past few years, Kootznoowoo has used a $5 million grant from the Alaska Energy Authority to plan and engineer a dam, power plant, and utility tunnel back to town. Wunrow says two major barriers remain. “One is we still have to complete what’s referred to as SHPO 106, which is the heritage work to make sure that there aren’t any historical or cultural items of significance that will be disturbed in any way,” he said. An archeological team from the Forest Service is on site doing that work this summer. The second barrier could take more time. A long-awaited hydro project in Angoon can proceed, if funding can be found. https://alaskapublic.org/2023/08/15/a-long-awaited-hydro-project-in-angoon-can-proceed-if-funding-can-be-found/ 3/4 “And then we need funding,” he added. Wunrow says Thayer Creek is an “unfunded federal project,” authorized by Congress but with no money allocated to build it. Wunrow says this partly explains why Angoon never moved forward with the project – there was always an expectation that the federal government would follow through with the $30 million or so needed for construction. Steadily rising fuel prices helped to change that attitude. Electricity in Angoon costs up to eight times more than in the Lower 48. The crunch motivated Kootznoowoo to take the initiative about three years ago to plan the project without federal support. And then came President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, which includes $1 billion for “Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas.” The program is tailored to build energy resilience and affordability in communities of under 10,000 people. Wunrow says this is Angoon’s shot to connect with funding that’s four decades overdue. “This is really the first, and potentially the only funding of this size, specifically for rural areas to do renewable energy,” Wunrow said. “So it’s kind of got Thayer written all over it. We’re hopeful.” If it comes to fruition, Kootznoowoo will own the Thayer Creek hydro project, but it will be operated by the Inside Passage Electric Cooperative – or IPEC – which currently supplies electricity to Angoon from diesel. Affordable hydropower could revolutionize life for Angoon’s 500 residents. Thayer Creek’s 850 kilowatts would fully replace the existing diesel plant, which would be preserved as a backup. The total savings will be 250,000 gallons of fuel annually, worth about $1 million. The project would be built upstream of a natural salmon barrier, so no fish would be harmed. A long-awaited hydro project in Angoon can proceed, if funding can be found. https://alaskapublic.org/2023/08/15/a-long-awaited-hydro-project-in-angoon-can-proceed-if-funding-can-be-found/ 4/4 “If we could just stabilize the cost of power, that would be a big win for Angoon,” Wunrow said. “But we’re also hoping it ushers in an era of electric motors: electric cars, electric boats, and heat pumps.” 9/7/23, 3:23 PM A year after passage, landmark climate law is creating a ‘different world’ for Alaska renewables - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/13/a-year-after-passage-landmark-climate-law-is-creating-a-different-world-for-alaska-renew…1/8   Obituaries  •  Games  •  ADN Store  •  e-Edition  •  Sponsored Content  •  Promotions ADVERTISEMENT Energy A year after passage, landmark climate law is creating a ‘different world’ for Alaska renewables By Riley Rogerson Updated: August 13, 2023 Published: August 13, 2023    Alaska News   •  Politics  •  Opinions   •  Talk to us LOG IN SUBSCRIBESections 9/7/23, 3:23 PM A year after passage, landmark climate law is creating a ‘different world’ for Alaska renewables - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/13/a-year-after-passage-landmark-climate-law-is-creating-a-different-world-for-alaska-renew…2/8 Solar panels soak up the sun at a solar farm operated by Renewable IPP in Willow in 2018. (Loren Holmes / ADN) WASHINGTON — A year after the Biden administration’s signature climate bill passed, Alaska renewable energy industry observers say the law is beginning to jump-start new development in the state. The Inflation Reduction Act was passed in August 2022 and included about $400 billion for climate and energy programs as well as clean energy tax credits. Nationally, groups that advocate for renewable energy say it’s already funding hundreds of new projects. People working in Alaska’s clean energy industry say the law’s financial incentives have the potential to spark much more renewable development in Alaska. “It’s just a different world than it was a few years ago,” said Isaac Vanderburg, president of Launch Alaska, a nonprofit focused on transitioning Alaska energy. “We felt like we were, in our organization, just kind of trying to get a couple of projects moving and unstick a couple of projects, but it was very difficult,” he said. “And now it just feels like there are so many projects, so much going on, that our challenge is capacity to respond to opportunities and the projects that are happening.” Biden administration officials have hit the road in recent weeks to tout the Inflation Reduction Act’s one-year anniversary and other policies they call “Bidenomics.” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is visiting Alaska in the coming days to highlight the administration’s investments in the state. [Alaska Division of Oil and Gas plans geothermal lease sale for volcano near Anchorage] The Inflation Reduction Act includes billions in corporate financial incentives designed to accelerate private investment in clean energy. Developers point out 9/7/23, 3:23 PM A year after passage, landmark climate law is creating a ‘different world’ for Alaska renewables - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/13/a-year-after-passage-landmark-climate-law-is-creating-a-different-world-for-alaska-renew…3/8 that, importantly, the law allots 10 years to take advantage of its tax credits, eliminating uncertainty for suppliers and investors. ADVERTISEMENT While the project was agreed to before the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law, Renewable IPP CEO Jenn Miller said her company’s solar project in Houston — the largest in the state — is benefiting from the law’s 10-year timeline and will claim tax incentives. She said the law is also helping shore up future development, like a solar project the company is planning on the Kenai Peninsula. “Particularly in a state where solar is an immature industry, and it’s in its infancy, and so having those incentives provided for the next 10 years is helping our industry get on its feet,” she said. The law also comes as a looming natural gas shortage in Cook Inlet adds to interest in renewables for Alaska’s Railbelt, said Chris Rose, executive director of the Renewable Energy Alaska Project. Curtis Thayer, the executive director of the Alaska Energy Authority, agreed that the Inflation Reduction Act is generating interest in Alaska renewable investments and could make Alaska-based projects that face high construction and shipping costs more viable. “If there’s anything, whether it be a tax incentive or rebate to help lower that cost, it is beneficial to the state,” he said. “There’s no question about that.” However, Thayer raised concerns about changing federal guidance regarding the law’s tax credits, and said that funding awarded to Alaska under the law has not yet made it to the state. Rose said the law is starting to take effect in Alaska and “it’s understandable” that federal agencies have needed time to develop processes to get the money out the door. 9/7/23, 3:23 PM A year after passage, landmark climate law is creating a ‘different world’ for Alaska renewables - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/13/a-year-after-passage-landmark-climate-law-is-creating-a-different-world-for-alaska-renew…4/8 “It’s not surprising that it’s taken some time,” Rose said. “... I think that we’re starting to see the flow get greater over the last couple of months.” Since Biden took office, more than 100 clean energy jobs have been created in Alaska, according to a White House fact sheet. As projects get off the ground, more new jobs could come to Alaska, but developers and Thayer see challenges building a workforce to fill the new positions — a labor shortage is hitting Alaska’s construction industry particularly hard. “We are competing for workforce, like every other state, but we’re also competing for the way of life in Alaska, so to speak,” Thayer said. “And you’re going to have to find people that want to live and work and be in Alaska.” The Inflation Reduction Act also includes tax breaks — like a 10% tax write-off of operational costs for domestic companies producing critical minerals — that industry observers have anticipated would spark more interest in Alaska minerals needed to build renewable infrastructure. In July, the Defense Department announced $37 million to aid a feasibility study for the Graphite One mining project near Nome. The U.S. Geological Survey considers graphite a “critical mineral,” and it is a key element of electric vehicle batteries. Alaska is rich in other critical minerals like lithium and zinc that are important to building solar panels and wind turbines. Deantha Skibinski, the executive director of the Alaska Miners Association, said while the industry has long been enthusiastic about the state’s mining prospects, the Inflation Reduction Act has spurred more discussion around Alaska critical minerals with government agencies like the Defense and Energy departments and academics. “It’s been nice to have these conversations with not just ourselves,” Skibinski said last month. Neither of Alaska’s Republican U.S. senators, Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, voted for the Inflation Reduction Act, saying it would actually contribute to inflation. 9/7/23, 3:23 PM A year after passage, landmark climate law is creating a ‘different world’ for Alaska renewables - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/business-economy/energy/2023/08/13/a-year-after-passage-landmark-climate-law-is-creating-a-different-world-for-alaska-renew…5/8 Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola was not yet in office. When the bill passed, several Alaska environmental groups welcomed the law. Alaska Wilderness League’s senior director of policy, Andy Moderow, said the conservation group is still “grateful for the big step forward on addressing climate.” Yet several Alaska environmental groups have been wary of certain provisions. One detail that irked conservationists was the bill’s revival of a mandatory oil and gas lease sale in Cook Inlet. That sale drew just one bid from Hilcorp Alaska. ADVERTISEMENT Moderow also questioned the Inflation Reduction Act’s investment in Graphite One, which he suggested might not be the best use of funds given the project’s potential impacts to local communities. “But that’s the outlier,” he said. “I think generally the IRA’s focus and investments make sense to me as making climate progress.” Support our reporting Reporte r R i l ey R o ge r son i s a full-t i m e r e p o r ter f o r t he A D N b a se d i n Was h i n gt on, D.C. He r pos i tion i s su p p o r ted by Re p ort fo r Am e r i ca, w h i ch i s working t o fill gaps i n report i n g a cro s s A meric a an d t o p l a ce a new g en era tio n of j o ur nalists i n c o m m u nit y n e ws o r gan i z a t i o n s a r o u nd t h e co u n t r y. R epo rt f or A m eric a , f u nded by b o t h pri va te a n d p u b l i c d ono rs , c ove r s u p t o 5 0 % o f a r e p o r ter’s sala ry. I t’s u p t o A n ch o ra ge D a i l y N e ws t o f in d t he o ther h a l f, t h r o ug h l oc a l c o m m u n i t y d o nors, be ne fac t o r s , g ran ts o r other f u n dra i s i n g a ct i vit i e s. I f you w o u l d l ike to m a ke a pe r sona l , t a x -d e duc tib l e co n trib u t io n t o h er p o sit i o n, yo u c a n make a o n e -time d o n at i o n o r a rec u r r i n g m o n t h l y d o nat i on v i a a d n.c o m /RFA. Yo u can a l so d onate by ch ec k , p ay a b l e t o “Th e Groun d Tr ut h P r o j e ct .” Send i t t o R e p o r t for A m e r i ca/An chora ge D a i l y N e ws, c/o The G r ound Tr u t h P r o j e c t , 10 Gu es t S treet , Bos ton , MA 0 2 135. Please p u t Anc h orag e Daily N e w s /Re p ort fo r Am e r i ca i n the c he c k m e m o l i ne . Donate today 9/7/23, 10:46 AM energytech.com/print/content/21272064 https://www.energytech.com/print/content/21272064 1/3 ENERGY EFFICIENCY DOE Grants $48.4 million to 3 States and 9 Tribal Nations to Modernize the Electric Grid The Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants will also provide $2.3 billion to States, Territories, and federally recognized tribes by 2028 The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded $48.4 million to three states and nine tribal nations to help improve the electric grid to minimize impacts of climate-driven extreme weather and natural disasters and ensure power sector reliability. The grants, supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and administered by the DOE’s Grid Deployment Office and part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help communities access affordable, reliable, and clean electricity. Considering various factors, the Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants will award a total of $2.3 billion to States, Territories, and federally recognized tribes, including Alaska Native Regional Corporations and Alaska Native Village Corporations, over the next five years. The States, Territories, and tribes will utilize these funds in projects which generate the greatest community benefit while providing clean, affordable, and reliable energy. 9/7/23, 10:46 AM energytech.com/print/content/21272064 https://www.energytech.com/print/content/21272064 2/3 “From remote and rural communities to urban centers, it is essential that every pocket of America has a strong and reliable energy grid that can deploy cleaner, cheaper power to homes and businesses, said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Thanks to the transformative investments in grid infrastructure under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are preparing the nation for a more resilient, clean energy future.” Since May 2023, the DOE has distributed more than $455.5 million in Grid Resilience Formula Grants due to President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda. Alaska received $22 million to reduce the energy burden and the cost experienced by customers within disadvantaged communities or tribal lands, as well as all areas served by the resilience investment, due to inadequate electric grid infrastructure. Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was granted $458,123 to enhance the tribal workforce, update failing infrastructure, and advance energy justice by focusing on projects on the reservation with a preference for projects on trust lands. With $112,439, Chalkyitsik Village will develop battery energy storage for critical facilities and will support addressing the energy burden experienced by low- income tribal members, while Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s funds of $1.3 million will enhance the tribal workforce, allow updates to failing infrastructure, and advance energy justice by focusing on projects on the reservation. Fort Sill Apache Tribe received $684,000 to address outdated or failing infrastructure and support tribal workforce development to support grid resilience measures. Galena Village (aka Louden Village) received $112,894 to support a continuous supply of power to consumers, reduce outage risks, develop projects and approaches for backup power, and advance partnerships with utilities to develop clean energy. 9/7/23, 10:46 AM energytech.com/print/content/21272064 https://www.energytech.com/print/content/21272064 3/3 Source URL: https://www.energytech.com/energy-efficiency/article/21272064/doe-grants-484- million-to-3-states-and-9-tribal-nations-to-modernize-the-electric-grid Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians was granted $183,155 to increase the skilled workforce within the tribe, support good-paying jobs, address capacity limitations, and invest in modernizing the energy infrastructure. Native Village of Port Graham received $181,493 to support battery storage for critical facilities and improve partnerships between the Tribe and utilities to support affordability and improved service to tribal members. The grant worth $479,021 to Seneca Nation of Indians will be used to increase the skilled tribal energy workforce and invest in modernizing the electric grid, including addressing outdated or failing infrastructure. Summit Lake Paiute Tribe was awarded $115,833 to increase the tribal workforce to support energy resilience and allow investments in grid modernization while increasing electrification in response to evolving needs. Utah received $12 million to retain a skilled workforce which may include partnering with labor unions and/or educational institutions with a focus on underrepresented or historically excluded workers. $11 million allotted to Virginia will be used to address outdated or failing energy infrastructure equipment and materials like power lines, power poles, transformers, and bucket trucks serving Virginia communities. 8/14/23, 10:00 AM AEA secures $22M federal grant for grid resilience | Alaska News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/aea-secures-22m-federal-grant-for-grid-resilience/article_473e1b06-3886-11ee-816c-1760077ea43c.h…1/4 https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/aea-secures-22m-federal-grant-for-grid- resilience/article_473e1b06-3886-11ee-816c-1760077ea43c.html AEA secures $22M federal grant for grid resilience Jack Barnwell Aug 12, 2023 Golden Valley Electric Association The Alaska Intertie, owned by Alaska Energy Authority. Golden Valley Electric Association The Alaska Energy Authority will receive $22.1 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants program, the state agency announced Wednesday. The funding, when leveraged with a state match of $3.6 million, will be used to assist with “electric infrastructure projects that seek to improve electric grid reliability and resilience against disruptive events.” 8/14/23, 10:00 AM AEA secures $22M federal grant for grid resilience | Alaska News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/aea-secures-22m-federal-grant-for-grid-resilience/article_473e1b06-3886-11ee-816c-1760077ea43c.h…2/4 “This is a long time in waiting,” said AEA Executive Director Curtis Thayer on Friday. Thayer said the funding will be used to improve transmission projects, rather than distribution or production centers. AEA will distribute the funds in similar fashion to its longstanding Renewable Energy Fund grants. The agency will establish an application process later this year. Applications will be reviewed and scored based on economic and technical merits and recommended for which programs are moved forward. Like the Renewable Energy Fund grant, nominated projects must be approved by the Alaska Legislature. Thayer said the funding will be used to improve transmission projects, rather than distribution or production centers. “It’s for high voltage,” Thayer said. “What I see for this funding is that it would be more for the urban areas, whether it’s Juneau, Ketchikan, Fairbanks, Homer or Anchorage.” AEA’s grant was among the latest awarded by the DOE since the application deadline ended May 31. DOE has been making announcements on a rolling basis for funs that were appropriated in Fiscal Years 2022 and 2023. Thayer said the state will receive a consolidated amount, based on the two-year period. He added AEA stated the grant application period last year, but delays and step-backs slowed the process. AEA resubmitted its grant in April, about a month before the May 31 deadline, without changing its contents. Thayer called it a partial allotment and expects AEA to receive an additional $38 million, which require a $5.4 million state match, to be used in the urban area. ‘No second line’ Thayer stressed the funding remains a drop in the bucket compared to Alaska’s need to replace or update its aging transmission lines. 8/14/23, 10:00 AM AEA secures $22M federal grant for grid resilience | Alaska News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/aea-secures-22m-federal-grant-for-grid-resilience/article_473e1b06-3886-11ee-816c-1760077ea43c.h…3/4 “We have a very antiquated system and have no redundancy on that system, no second line,” Thayer said. “If the one transmission line we have between Anchorage and Fairbanks goes down, Fairbanks loses a large percentage of its power source.” The AEA-owned Alaska Intertie provides Golden Valley Electric Association with a large amount of its purchased power. Just under 17% of GVEA’s power generation comes from Bradley Lake Hydroelectric Project alone. “The Alaska Intertie saves the Fairbanks community $40 million a year in energy costs because it allows GVEA to purchase cheaper power and ship it across the Intertie,” Thayer said. Upgrading or rebuilding the existing power lines alone to modern standards could cost $1 billion. “We don’t even have that second line, so we are constrained with the problem that if an earthquake or other disaster happens, we don’t have secondary way to bring power to Fairbanks or from Fairbanks,” Thayer said. He said the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requires most Lower 48 states or utilities to have a secondary transmission line in cast of emergencies. FERC’s rules for bulk power systems doesn’t apply for Alaska since the state isn’t interconnected with interstate or national power grids. “We need a redundancy system, and while this funding might be a drop in the bucket, it’s a step in the right direction,” Thayer said. Alaska tribes receive grants Thayer said the DOE grid resilience splits funding into two pots. One goes to state agencies such as AEA, while the others are awarded to rural and Indigenous tribes, groups and Alaska Native corporations. Since July 1, four Alaska Native communities and one Alaska Native corporation have been awarded smaller grants. The DOE awarded the Village of Dot Lake $149,000, $150,000 for the Native Village of Eagle, and $113,000 for the Metlakaatla Indian Community, Alaska’s sole Indian reservation. Alaska Native Corporation Cook Inlet Region, Inc was awarded $500,000. 8/14/23, 10:00 AM AEA secures $22M federal grant for grid resilience | Alaska News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/aea-secures-22m-federal-grant-for-grid-resilience/article_473e1b06-3886-11ee-816c-1760077ea43c.h…4/4 jbarnwell According to the DOE announcement, Eagle will used its grant to look at asset management, preventative maintenance and improve operational capacity to reduce of risks. “The tribe plans to develop projects and approaches to implement backup power in case of outages for critical facilities,” the DOE stated. Dot Lake’s grant, DOE said, “will reduce outage risks through asset management and preventative maintenance, as well as plan the development of battery storage for critical facilities.” Editorial note: This version corrects the first name of AEA's executive director as Curtis Thayer. Contact reporter Jack Barnwell at 907-459-7587 or jbarnwell@newsminer.com. 9/7/23, 2:59 PM In this issue: Justice40 Inititative Survey, August 15 Technical Session, and EV Resources https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=79106ada40 1/4 View this email in your browser Alaska Electric Vehicle Working Group Newsletter, August 10, 2023 There’s still time to par ticipate in July's Technical Session (yes, July) During the Alaska Electric Vehicle Working Group Technical Session held on July 12, attendees were invited to learn about the Justice40 Initiative and how electric vehicle (EV) charging stations funded through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program might benefit Justice40 communities. The group also explored how to measure those potential benefits. The Justice40 Initiative is a commitment that at least 40 percent of benefits Subscribe Past Issues Translate 9/7/23, 2:59 PM In this issue: Justice40 Inititative Survey, August 15 Technical Session, and EV Resources https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=79106ada40 2/4 from any United States Department of Transportation program (like NEVI) flow to disadvantaged communities. There are several components that factor into determining whether an area is considered “disadvantaged.” Census tracts are assessed and evaluated to see if they meet the threshold for 1) environmental, climate, or other burdens, and 2) associated socio-economic burdens. The Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool does this evaluation and also considers the following potential burdens: climate change, energy, health, housing, legacy pollution, transportation, water and wastewater, and workforce development. You can check an interactive map to see not only if an area is classified as “disadvantaged,” but also which burden thresholds the area met to be classified as such. On the Railbelt, 39.8% of the residents live in disadvantaged communities. Did you miss the July Justice40 technical session? You still have the chance to participate and have your voice heard by filling out this survey to share how you think more EV charging stations might benefit disadvantaged communities. We would particularly like to hear from people who reside in areas classified as “disadvantaged.” You can also watch a recording of the technical session here using passcode: DpJ5T@nx Subscribe Past Issues Translate 9/7/23, 2:59 PM In this issue: Justice40 Inititative Survey, August 15 Technical Session, and EV Resources https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=79106ada40 3/4 “Country roads, take me home” — The Story of EVs in Rural Appalachia Join us at our upcoming technical session on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, from noon to 1 p.m. (Alaska Time) to learn about the Rural Reimagined Project. Professor Pingen Chen, P.h.D., principal investigator for the program, will share an overview of this Department of Energy-funded initiative that aims to bolster EV outreach and education in rural Appalachia. One goal of the project is to lend out EVs to residents for two to six weeks at no cost. Participating states include Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. This will be an exciting opportunity to learn about how rural areas of the United States are working to engage their residents. There will be time for collaboration and Q&A at the end of the session, so feel free to come prepared with some questions! Remote attendees join us via Zoom: Join via Zoom by clicking this link or with the information below: Meeting ID: 852 0996 4376 Passcode: 856031 • 833 548 0276 US Toll-free • 833 548 0282 US Toll-free • 877 853 5257 US Toll-free • 888 475 4499 US Toll-free In-person attendees, please RSVP! Subscribe Past Issues Translate 9/7/23, 2:59 PM In this issue: Justice40 Inititative Survey, August 15 Technical Session, and EV Resources https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=79106ada40 4/4 As lunch will be provided for attendees in person, please RSVP here by Friday, August 11, 2023 — and indicate that you will "attend in person." EV Resources Explore the map - Climate & Economic Justice Screening Tool (geoplatform.gov) Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool Rural Reimagined: Building an EV Ecosystem and Green Economy for Transforming Lives in Economically Distressed Appalachia – APECL (tntech.edu) Facebook LinkedIn Website The Alaska Energy Authority’s Alaska Electric Vehicle Working Group involves collaborative stakeholders focused on promoting the use of electric vehicles (EVs) in Alaska by removing barriers to EV adoption and increasing access to charging infrastructure. Stay up to date on AEA's EV efforts at our website here. Copyright © 2023 Alaska Energy Authority, All rights reserved. Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list. Subscribe Past Issues Translate 813 W Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503  Phone: (907) 771-3000  Fax: (907) 771-3044  Email: info@akenergyauthority.org REDUCING THE COST OF ENERGY IN ALASKA AKENERGYAUTHORITY.ORG RGYAUTHORITY.ORG PRESS RELEASE Brandy M. Dixon Communications Director (907) 771-3078 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 9, 2023 AEA Awarded $25.6 Million for Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program (Anchorage) — The Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) was awarded $22.1 million for Alaska’s Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program through the Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants from the United States Department of Energy (DOE). A required state match of 15 percent or $3.6 million was also received for a total of $25.6 million. These funds were awarded as an aggregate allocation of the first two fiscal years of federal funding, as authorized under Section 40101(d) Formula Grants to States and Indian Tribes of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. A key objective of the Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program is to assist with electric infrastructure projects, which seek to improve electric grid reliability and resilience against disruptive events. As part of this program, Alaska expects to receive another $38 million in federal funds, which will require an additional 15 percent match from the State, or $5.4 million, over the next three years to support grid resilience projects across the state. “Funding from the Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program will build upon existing efforts throughout Alaska to strengthen electric grid infrastructure,” said AEA Executive Director Curtis W Thayer. “It will help incentivize critical investments that enhance energy resilience, increase beneficial electrification, and address other evolving system needs for the benefit of current and future generations of Alaskans.” The program is part of a broader federal effort to accelerate the deployment of transformative projects that will help to ensure the reliability of national utility-scale electrical infrastructure. AEA will administer the program according to federal applicant and project eligibility requirements. It is anticipated that a Request for Applications will be issued in the fourth quarter of this year. To learn more about Alaska’s Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program and stay informed, visit https://www.akenergyauthority.org/grid-resilience-formula-grant-program. ### About the Alaska Energy Authority The Alaska Energy Authority is a public corporation of the state. Its mission is to reduce the cost of energy in Alaska. To achieve this mission, AEA strives to diversify Alaska's energy portfolio increasing resiliency, reliability, and redundancy. To learn more, visit akenergyauthority.org.