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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-12-06 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 Wednesday December 6, 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 – October 25, 2023 5. PUBLIC COMMENTS (2 minutes per person) see call in number above 6. NEW BUSINESS – None 7. OLD BUSINESS – A. Board Governance • Alaska Statutes – Comparison prior vs. current • Alaska Statutes - December 1976 8. DIRECTOR COMMENTS A. Responses to Board Questions from October Board Meeting B. IIJA / IRA Grant Funding • Waiting for response from DOE on GRIP 3 • Waiting for response from DOE on 40101(d) C. Governor’s State Energy Security Task Force Update • Final report to be presented to Governor Dec. 1 D. Community Outreach E. Articles of Interest F. Next Regularly Scheduled AEA Board Meeting Wednesday, January 24, 2024 9. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Discuss confidential matters regarding Owned Assets the immediate knowledge of which would have an adverse effect on Alaska Energy Authority. 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 RGYAUTHORITY.ORG Alaska Energy Authority DRAFT BOARD MEETING MINUTES Wednesday, October 25, 2023 Anchorage, Alaska 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Pruhs called the meeting of the Alaska Energy Authority to order on October 25, 2023, at 8:30 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); Micaela Fowler (Deputy Commissioner DCCED for Commissioner Julie Sande); Bill Vivlamore (Public Member); and Randy Eledge (Public Member). Chair Pruhs requested that individuals in the room state their name and affiliation, if any. 3. AGENDA APPROVAL MOTION: A motion was made by Vice-Chair Kendig to approve the agenda. Motion seconded by Mr. Vivlamore. The motion to approve the agenda passed without objection. 4. PRIOR MINUTES – September 22, 2023 MOTION: A motion was made by Vice-Chair Kendig to approve the prior minutes of September 22, 2023. Motion seconded by Mr. Fogle. The motion to approve the minutes of September 22, 2023 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. 6. NEW BUSINESS Mr. Thayer introduced Kent Sullivan, who is contracting with AEA and will hopefully become Chief Counsel. Mr. Sullivan briefly provided his professional background. Alaska Energy Authority Page 2 of 10 A. FY23 Audit Chair Pruhs requested Executive Director and Secretary-Treasurer Curtis Thayer to present the FY23 Audit. Mr. Thayer invited Lealan Miller of Eide Bailly to review AEA’s financial statements. The statements are on time. Mr. Thayer indicated that Pam Ellis, AEA, and Mischiell Barrera, AEA, are attending today and were instrumental in producing the audit on time. Mr. Miller expressed appreciation to Clay Christian, AEA, Ms. Ellis, Ms. Barrera, and others for their helpful efforts in providing the information for the audit. He complimented staff on their understanding of AEA’s complicated financial statements. Mr. Miller explained that the auditors have rendered a clean opinion. There are no qualifications or differences according to the Generally Accepted Accounted Principles (GAAP). The financial statements are materially correct. The other two reports included in the material are the financial statements that are audited according to government auditing standards, and the report related to the federal awards. There were no findings regarding those two reports. Mr. Miller noted the biggest change for the financial statements from last year to this year regards the $200 million of debt that was added during the year. Another change is that the investment earnings were better this year compared to last year. There are no new footnotes and no new standards issued for the financial statements. Chair Pruhs indicated that the Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project remains the same as last year at $183 million. He requested additional information regarding the accounting aspects of the project. Mr. Miller noted that he would have to research the information with staff and would provide an answer later today. Chair Pruhs noted that Bradley Lake was depreciated by almost $11 million, and the net asset position increased from $153 million to $155 million. He requested explanation of the relationship of the positions. Mr. Miller explained that the net position includes all the assets associated with the project: capital assets, change in cash receivables, and payables that affect the amount. The amounts on page 40 only show the capital assets. Bryan Carey, AEA, noted that last year’s statement of values for Bradley Lake from an insurance standpoint increased by 16%, approximately $50 million, due to inflation escalation. This exceeds the depreciation that occurred. Chair Pruhs requested additional clarity on the relationship between the schedules for both Bradley Lake and the Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project reporting. Mr. Thayer informed that under covenants, the audited financials need to be accepted by Friday. Mr. Thayer asked Mr. Miller if he could provide the answer to Chair Pruhs’ question by the end of today’s meeting. Mr. Miller agreed. Chair Pruhs indicated that this item will be addressed again before the executive session. There was no objection. B. Power Project Loan (PPF) Application – Makushin Alaska Energy Authority Page 3 of 10 Mr. Thayer invited Tim Sandstrom, AEA Acting Chair of PPF Loan Committee, to discuss the Power Project Loan Application. Chair Pruhs requested a brief at-ease. There was no objection. A brief at-ease was taken. The Board reconvened, and Mr. Sandstrom indicated that Conner Erickson, AEA, would present the PPF Loan Application package. Mr. Erickson provided an overview of the 30 MW Makushin Geothermal Project and loan application from Ounalashka Chena Power LLC (OCCP, LLC), which is a partnership jointly owned by the Ounalashka Corporation and Chena Power. OCCP is a certificated electric utility with the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA). The loan would support the construction of the geothermal power project on the Makushin Volcano in Unalaska and is inclusive of the transmission necessary to convey the power to the island, approximately 14 miles away. Mr. Erickson discussed that he and a team from AEA visited the site in March. They were able to inspect the current progress of the development of the utility access corridor. The man-camp has been established and significant progress has been made on the road. He noted discussions that occurred with community members and seafood processors regarding the ability to access renewable power. Mr. Erickson explained that the loan is essentially a bridge loan in the amount of $4.9 million to keep the development of the utility access corridor and wellfield activities on schedule. The majority of the project is to be funded through a Department of Energy (DOE) Tribal Loan Program loan in the amount of $193 million. Mr. Erickson indicated that he has spoken with members of the Loan Program Office at DOE and the project is undergoing its full due diligence phase. DOE anticipates an issuance of a final decision will be in the first quarter of next year. Mr. Sandstrom does not expect any new findings that would be detrimental to the project. Additionally, staff utilized independent and third-party reviewers for the technical and financial aspects of the project, and no material risks were identified. He discussed that the plant design is modular and allows for efficient additions to the plant, if required. Mr. Erickson explained that the City of Unalaska consumes approximately half of the plant’s proposed production. A Power Purchase Agreement was entered into with the City of Unalaska in 2020, and has been extended. Mr. Erickson provided additional information regarding the agreement. Chair Pruhs asked if the current seafood processors get their power from the local utility. Mr. Erickson informed that the processors are independent and self-generate their power with diesel. Chair Pruhs inquired as to other opportunities for the use of geothermal beyond electricity. Mr. Erickson is unaware of additional opportunities at this time. He is confident that the seafood processors would look to utilize and leverage the geothermal powerplant as their primary source of power. There is a 1% escalation in the power price over the life of the project. One risk is that if the powerplant were to stop operating for an extended period of time, OCCP would be liable for the cost of the generation for the City. Mr. Erickson discussed that geothermal powerplants are quite reliable with a consistent availability of greater than 95%. Alaska Energy Authority Page 4 of 10 Chair Pruhs requested Mr. Erickson review the terms of the loan for the record. Mr. Erickson indicated that the PPF Loan Committee approved that the loan to be brought before the Board, subject to specific terms. The loan amount requested is $4.9 million. The closing fee of $44,000 is to be rolled into the principal balance. The term is 30 years, which is the life of the project, and is at a fixed rate of 5.03%. There are no prepayment penalties. Mr. Erickson explained that the fixed line of credit is for 12 months. Chair Pruhs inquired as to the methodology that will be used to monitor the draws and uses of the funds. Mr. Erickson discussed that all PPF loans use the same structure and that the borrower issues invoices and proof of payment to AEA. Additional verification can also be provided. Chair Pruhs asked if the terms include an option to refinance if interest rates decrease. Mr. Erickson agreed, and noted that is subject to additional fees and review by AEA. Mr. Erickson reviewed the sources of repayment are the debt service reserve account established by OCCP, the revenues from the Power Purchase Agreement, and the Investment Tax Credit Receipts. Mr. Erickson indicated that the memorandum states that payments would be made via draws on the DOE line of credit; however, this is not allowed and is no longer a possibility. Chair Pruhs asked if AEA has ever given a loan for a geothermal project such as this. Mr. Erickson noted that he is unaware of any. Chair Pruhs asked if there are additional opportunities in Alaska that will fit this model for geothermal. Mr. Erickson agreed. He discussed that within the application for Round XV for the Renewable Energy Fun (REF), Homer Electric Association (HEA) has proposed studying the potential geothermal power production on the islands of St. Augustine and Mount Spurr. Chair Pruhs asked if this project could be considered as a pilot program. Mr. Erickson agreed. He noted that the technology is not new, but the scale and use in the state of Alaska is new. Mr. Erickson discussed the guarantees required by AEA. The conditions precedent is the same that were used for the Houston Solar Project that the Board approved last October. Mr. Fogle expressed appreciation for the presentation. He inquired as to when the first quarterly payment would be made after their first draw. Mr. Erickson discussed that interest would begin accruing after their first draw and the quarterly payment would be due at the beginning of the following quarter. Staff requested the Board to approve the resolution. MOTION: A motion was made by Vice-Chair Kendig to approve Resolution 2023-02, Ounalashka Chena Power, LLC, PPF Loan, as presented. Motion seconded by Mr. Fogle. Mr. Fogle asked if the Board wants to hear from the Makushin representatives attending the meeting. Chair Pruhs expressed appreciation for the thorough presentation and the due diligence that has been conducted. He does not feel that representatives need to comment. Chair Pruhs requested that program staff provide an update to the Board in six months on the progress and overview of the DOE’s loan. There was no objection. Alaska Energy Authority Page 5 of 10 Mr. Fogle commented that this project is fulfilling AIDEA’s mission to lower the cost of energy in Alaska. Mr. Fogle asked if an economic impact study has been conducted on the effects on the community by lowering electricity rates and economic activity. Mr. Erickson noted that he has not explicitly seen impact modeling. He is confident of the opportunities for ancillary development and leveraging the excess power. Chair Pruhs commented on the additional benefit of the project in reducing the environmental exposure of bringing diesel to the region. A roll call was taken, and the motion to approve Resolution 2023-02 passed unanimously. C. AEA Board Meeting Dates – 2024 MOTION: A motion was made by Vice-Chair Kendig to approve the 2024 Board Meeting Dates, as presented. Motion seconded by Mr. Fogle. The motion to approve the 2024 Board Meeting Schedule passed without objection. 7. OLD BUSINESS - None A brief at-ease was taken. The Board reconvened, and Chair Pruhs requested Mr. Miller to discuss the answers to the previous questions regarding the FY23 Audit. Mr. Miller explained that the business type activities for Bradley Lake for 2023, as shown on pages 12 and 15, increased $2.4 million and comports with the reported increase. The depreciation, also shown on page 12, is taken into consideration for the overall operations for the business activities. Extensive explanation occurred by Mr. Thayer, Mr. Miller, Mr. Christian, AEA, and Ms. Ellis regarding the asset positions in the report. Chair Pruhs requested a delineation of the value of each of the assets, including Bradley Lake. He commented that members of the public have asked him for the value of Bradley Lake. Ms. Ellis agreed to provide that level of information. Chair Pruhs requested additional information regarding the Susitna-Watana reported numbers. Mr. Miller discussed that the predevelopment intangible costs of $183 million will remain unchanged until the project is placed in service and moves forward. If the project ultimately does not go forward, then the asset will be subject to impairment and write-down. The project has been out of abeyance since 2018. Chair Pruhs commented that the value of the intangible costs certainly has increased from the reported numbers. Mr. Christian agreed. He explained that the accounting records are based on historical costs and book value, and do not report commercial value or replacement value. Alaska Energy Authority Page 6 of 10 MOTION: A motion was made by Vice-Chair Kendig to approve the Fiscal Year 2023 Alaska Energy Authority Audited Financial Report, as presented. Motion seconded by Mr. Fogle. Mr. Fogle recommended that the spelling of Susitna-Watana is corrected. There was no objection. A roll call was taken, and the motion to approve the Fiscal Year 2023 Alaska Energy Authority Audited Financial Report passed unanimously. 8. DIRECTOR COMMENTS A. Responses to Board Questions from September Board Meeting Mr. Thayer reviewed the responses to Board questions included in the packet. As requested, the advanced draft copy of the Alaska Railbelt Transmission System Study is provided. B. IIJA / IRA Grant Funding Update  Solar For All Mr. Thayer discussed the included grant program narrative is given on a weekly basis. The Solar For All application deadline was extended to October 11, and the application was submitted on time. Additional applications to be submitted include the Energy Future Grant and the High Energy Cost Grant. Mr. Thayer announced that AEA was awarded $206.5 million for the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership Program Topic 3 (GRIP 3) competitive application. A 100% State match is required. He noted that out of the over 700 applications nationwide, 58 applications were successful, and AEA received the highest amount of funding in the country. Mr. Thayer expressed appreciation to the team and to Mr. Carey for their efforts in submitting a successful application. Mr. Thayer gave an overview of the projects, including the new HVDC line asset, within the application, and discussed the process of negotiations and the timeline of additional information that is required in order to receive funding. Staff is working with legal counsel to assist in the negotiations with DOE. Additionally, the federal receipt authority of $206.5 million and the match of $206.5 million was recently submitted to the Governor for consideration. During the application process, the Governor wrote a letter of support for the projects and the State match. Chair Pruhs noted that the Governor and the Legislature have to approve the match. He asked if the funds have to be taken in one year or if they can be disbursed over multiple years. Mr. Thayer explained that level of detail is being discussed, as well as the form and timeline for the match. The Federal funding is reimbursable and is not provided up front. The terms and goals include construction to begin promptly and to have the projects in service in eight years. Mr. Thayer discussed the possibility of utilizing previously bonded funds for batteries for a portion of the State’s match. These nuances and different scenarios for cash flow are under examination. Mr. Thayer indicated that routine studies and line loss studies will also be considered. Alaska Energy Authority Page 7 of 10 Mr. Thayer noted that discussions with Board members and the Chair will occur next week regarding additional personnel needs for the projects and for administering the funds. Preliminary conversations have occurred with the Department of Commerce and OMB. Mr. Thayer reiterated the enormity of the success of the grant award. He emphasized the community team effort with aspects of support provided by the utilities and unions. Mr. Fogle complimented Mr. Thayer and the team for their excellence in obtaining these grants. He asked what type of public notice or marketing would occur to inform the public and to celebrate these benefits that increase energy reliability and reduce the cost of energy, as well as the other positive economic impacts that the awarded funds will provide to Alaskans. Mr. Thayer commented on the excellent efforts of Brandy Dixon, AEA, in providing information through social media. He noted that the additional federal funding requires a significant amount of outreach that is beyond the scope of her position. He reiterated the importance of increasing personnel in order to support the current team members. Mr. Fogle suggested that advertising or letters to the editor could be written to Anchorage Daily News to inform the public of AEA’s recent accomplishments. Chair Pruhs expressed Board support for advocating and assisting in any way possible for increased personnel. Mr. Thayer commented that employee pay bands have been adjusted. Turnover is low. The team is fantastic, and morale is at an all-time high. Mr. Eledge requested discussion regarding the Solar For All Program. Mr. Thayer explained that the highly competitive application was submitted in collaboration with Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) and would provide residential rooftop solar for qualifying households on the Railbelt, as well as in rural communities over a five-year period, if awarded. A determination is expected to be released in February or March. Mr. Eledge commented on the White House Executive Order identifying all Tribal lands as disadvantaged, which applies to most of the lands in Alaska. He asked if this definition pertains to the Solar For All Program. Mr. Thayer explained that the GRIP applications through DOE utilize a different disadvantage definition than the Solar For All Program through Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Audrey Alstrom, AEA, indicated that the team used PCE communities as a baseline to identify disadvantaged communities within the state. Josi Hartley, AEA, added that Tribal areas are generally designated as being disadvantaged communities. Regarding grant applications for disadvantaged communities, all of the villages in rural Alaska qualify due to their Tribal status. The Justice40 designations based on census information are also used in identifying disadvantaged communities. C. Governor’s State Energy Security Task Force Update-DRAFT Report Mr. Thayer provided the update on the Governor’s Alaska Energy Security Task Force (AESTF). The latest 120-page draft report is included in the Board packet. The final meeting will be held next Tuesday. Two days of public comments have concluded, and over 250 hours of in-person meetings have transpired. Staff, with the assistance of the contractor, has been instrumental in Alaska Energy Authority Page 8 of 10 developing these efforts that are a priority for the Governor. D. Electric Vehicle Update Mr. Thayer complimented Ms. Hartley and her team for receiving an award of $11.2 million for the FY24 National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Implementation Plan. He noted that the plan was ranked as one of the six top plans in the country by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), whose representative personally visited Alaska to present the award. Ms. Hartley acknowledged that another significant aspect of the approval of the NEVI Plan is that the FHWA is potentially accepting of the Phase I corridor as sufficient for the build-out. This is a requirement in order to move to the second phase of the program, which is to install infrastructure in the remainder of the State’s highway system, the marine highway system, and other areas with higher concentrations of EVs. FHWA is happy with the work presented by AEA and has given the indication that AEA will be able to expeditiously move forward with the program. Ms. Hartley provided an overview of the information provided in the Board packet. The Request for Applications was released in March with the aim of installing NEVI-compliant Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) at a maximum of 14 sites located along the roadway between Anchorage and Fairbanks. A total of 34 applications were received for 13 of the 14 sites. The Selection Committee selected nine sites to be developed: one in Fairbanks, Ester, Nenana, Healy, Cantwell, Denali State Park, Trapper Creek, Wasilla, and Anchorage. The total cost to install EV charging infrastructure will be approximately $8 million, of which $6.5 million is Federal funds and $1.5 million is from credit investment from the site hosts. The individual site development costs range from $550,000 to $1.3 million due to the different types of charging stations and the location of power. All sites are located at existing commercial establishments. Mr. Fogle asked if the extreme cold temperatures remain an issue when charging the vehicles. Ms. Hartley believes that any issues that did exist have been addressed by the market and by the developers of the charging infrastructure. Certain sites maintain heated enclosures around the charging infrastructure to mitigate those types of issues. Mr. Fogle asked if AEA is monitoring the sites to report if they remain in service. Ms. Hartley discussed that monitoring would occur, especially as it relates to the NEVI Program and its Federal requirements. Mr. Fogle inquired if the energy at the stations is complementary or if a charge is applied. Ms. Hartley informed that all of the stations will charge per kW for the energy. The Level 3 charging stations typically charge approximately 40 cents per kW, which is significantly lower than the cost of a full tank of gas. Furthermore, along the Railbelt between Anchorage and Fairbanks, the utilities have adopted a special rate for EV charging without demand charges, which is approximately 16 cents per kW. E. Renewable Energy Grant Fund (REF) Update – None F. Denali Commission Update Mr. Thayer informed that there is $44 million in active Denali Commission awards, less the Alaska Energy Authority Page 9 of 10 spending on active awards of $26 million, which totals approximately $18 million. G. Power Project Loan (PPF) Update Mr. Thayer noted there are 16 outstanding loans with no delinquencies. After today’s meeting, there are now 17 outstanding loans. He directed the Board’s attention to the loan program summary and the low uncommitted cash balance amount value. Mr. Thayer explained that the loan amount approved today was set aside upon receipt of the application. There is currently a request to the Governor’s Office and the Legislature to recapitalize the loan program. H. Community Outreach Mr. Thayer discussed the extensive community outreach that has occurred this fall as shown in the provided list. I. Articles of Interest Mr. Thayer stated that the Articles of Interest are also contained with the Board packet. J. Next Regularly Scheduled AEA Board Meeting Wednesday, December 6, 2023 Mr. Thayer informed that during executive session, he will discuss the information provided to OMB, and discuss owned assets with regards to the GRIP funding. MOTION: A motion was made by Vice-Chair Kendig to go into executive session to discuss confidential matters and owned assets, the immediate disclosure of which would have an adverse impact on the Authority. This is supported by the Open Meetings Act, AS 44.62.310, which allows a board to consider confidential matters in executive session. In this case, the board believes that these are subjects which would have an adverse effect upon the finances of AEA and are protected by law, due to the rules protecting personal privacy and certain business information. Motion seconded by Mr. Fogle. A roll call was taken, and the motion to go into executive session passed unanimously. 9. EXECUTIVE SESSION: 10:35 a.m. – To discuss confidential financial matters, and owned assets the immediate knowledge of which would have an adverse effect on Alaska Energy Authority. The Board reconvened its regular meeting at 11:23 am. Chair Pruhs advised that the Board did not take any formal action on matters discussed while in Executive Session. Alaska Energy Authority Page 10 of 10 10. BOARD COMMENTS Mr. Eledge reiterated praise and tribute to the staff and leadership for their results of achieving the rank of number five out of 700 applications. Mr. Thayer commented on the significant team effort, while maintaining focus on the mission. He expressed appreciation to all those involved. Chair Pruhs expressed appreciation for the information presented today. He commented on the many opportunities that are forthcoming and highlighted that the Board is available to help support those opportunities. 11. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business of the Board, the AEA meeting adjourned at 11:28 am. __________________________________________________ Curtis W. Thayer, Excutive Director / Secretary 1976 = Blue Current = Red Article 1. Creation and Organization Sec. 44.56.010. Legislative finding and policy. Sec. 44.83.010. Legislative finding and policy. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] (a) The legislature finds, determines and declares that (1) there exist numerous potential hydroelectric and fossil fuel gathering sites in the state; (2) the establishment of power projects at these sites is necessary to supply lower cost power to the state's municipal electric, rural electric, cooperative electric, and private electric utilities, and regional electric authorities, and thereby to the consumers of the state, as well as to supply existing or future industrial needs; (3) the achievement of the goals of lower consumer power costs and long-term economic growth and of establishing, operating and developing power projects in the state will be accelerated and facilitated by the creation of an instrumentality of the state with powers to incur debt for constructing, and with powers to operate, power projects. (b) It is declared to be the policy of the state, in the interests of promoting the general welfare of all the people of the state, and public purposes, to reduce consumer power costs and otherwise to encourage the long-term economic growth of the state, including the development of its natural resources, through the establishment of power projects by creating the public corporation with powers, duties and functions as provided in this chapter. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.020. Creation of authority. Sec. 44.83.020. Creation of authority. There is created the Alaska Power Authority Alaska Energy Authority. The authority is a public corporation of the state in the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development but with separate and independent legal existence. (§ ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.030. Membership of the authority. Sec. 44.83.030. Membership of the authority. The authority consists of the commissioner of commerce and economic development and four public members appointed by the governor. The appointment of each director other than the commissioner of commerce and economic development is subject to confirmation by the legislature. The directors must be residents of the state and qualified voters at the time of appointment and shall comply with the requirements of AS 39.50 (conflict of interest). The term of office of each director appointed by the governor is four years except that the directors first appointed shall have terms of one, two, three, and four years, respectively. A vacancy in a directorship occurring other than by expiration of term shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment but for the unexpired term only. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) The directors of the Alaska Energy Authority are the members of the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority. Sec. 44.56.040. Officers and quorum. Sec. 44.83.040. Officers; meetings; quorum. The directors shall elect one of the public members as chairman and other officers they determine desirable. (a) The chair and vice-chair of the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority shall serve as officers of the Alaska Energy Authority. The powers of the authority Alaska Energy 2 Authority are vested in the directors, and three four directors of the authority constitute a quorum. Action may be taken and motions and resolutions adopted by the authority Alaska Energy Authority at a meeting by the affirmative vote of at least three a majority of the directors. The directors of the authority Alaska Energy Authority serve without compensation, but they shall receive the same travel pay and per diem as provided by law for board members under AS 39.20.180. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) (b) The board may meet and transact business by an electronic medium if (1) public notice of the time and locations where the meeting will be held by an electronic medium has been given in the same manner as if the meeting were held in a single location; (2) participants and members of the public in attendance can hear and have the same right to participate in the meeting as if the meeting were conducted in person; and (3) copies of pertinent reference materials, statutes, regulations, and audio-visual materials are reasonably available to participants and to the public. (c) A meeting by an electronic medium as provided in this section has the same legal effect as a meeting in person. (d) A director of the authority may not vote on a resolution of the authority relating to a lease or contract to be entered into by the authority under this chapter if the director is a party to the lease or contract or has a direct ownership or equity interest in a firm, partnership, corporation, or association that is a party to the contract or lease. When abstaining from voting, the director must disclose the reason for the abstention. A director who is a member of an electric cooperative that is organized under or subject to AS 10.25 (Electric and Telephone Cooperative Act) may vote on a resolution relating to a contract or lease to which that cooperative is a party. The director shall disclose the cooperative membership at the time of voting. A resolution of the authority that is approved by a majority of the directors present who are not barred from voting under this subsection is a valid action of the authority for all purposes. Sec. 44.83.045. Qualifications, powers, and duties of officers and directors. [Repealed, § 27 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.56.050. Staff. Sec. 44.83.050. Staff. [Repealed, § 23 ch 156 SLA 1978.] The authority shall employ an executive director who may with the approval of the authority select and employ additional staff as necessary. In addition to its staff of regular employees, the authority may contract for and engage the services of the bond counsel, consultants, experts, and financial advisors the authority considers necessary for the purpose of developing information, or conducting studies, investigations, hearings, or other proceedings. The director is subject to confirmation by the legislature. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Article 2. Purpose and Powers Sec. 44.56.070. Purpose of the authority. Sec. 44.83.070. Purpose of the authority. The purpose of the authority is to promote, develop and advance the general prosperity and economic welfare of the people of Alaska the state by providing a means of constructing, acquiring, financing and operating hydroelectric and fossil fuel generating projects a means of financing and operating power projects and facilities that recover and use waste energy and by carrying out the powers and duties assigned to it under AS 42.45. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) 3 Sec. 44.56.080. Powers of the authority. Sec. 44.83.080. Powers of the authority. In furtherance of its corporate purposes, the authority has the following powers in addition to its other powers: (1) to sue and be sued; (2) to have a seal and alter it at pleasure; (3) to make and alter bylaws for its organization and internal management; (4) to make rules and adopt regulations governing the exercise of its corporate powers; (5) to acquire, whether by construction, purchase, gift or lease, and to improve, equip and operate power projects; to improve, equip, operate, and maintain power projects and bulk fuel, waste energy, energy conservation, energy efficiency, and alternative energy facilities and equipment; (6) to issue bonds to carry out any of its corporate purposes and powers, including the acquisition or construction of a project to be owned or leased, as lessor or lessee, by the authority, or the acquisition of any interest in it or any right to capacity of it, the establishment or increase of reserves to secure or to pay the bonds or interest on them, and the payment of all other costs or expenses of the authority incident to and necessary or convenient to carry out its corporate purposes and powers; establishment or increase of reserves to secure or to pay the bonds or interest on them, and the payment of all other costs or expenses of the authority incident to and necessary or convenient to carry out its corporate purposes and powers; (7) to sell, lease as lessor or lessee, exchange, donate, convey, or encumber in any manner by mortgage or by creation of any other security interest, real or personal property owned by it, or in which it has an interest, when, in the judgment of the authority, the action is in furtherance of its corporate purposes; 8) to accept gifts, grants or loans from, and enter into contracts or other transactions regarding them, with a federal agency or an agency or instrumentality of the state, municipality, private organization or other source any person; 9) to deposit or invest its funds, subject to agreements with bondholders; 10) to enter into contracts with the United States or any person and, subject to the laws of the United States and subject to concurrence of the legislature, with a foreign country or its agencies, for the construction, acquisition financing, operation, and maintenance of all or any part of a power project or bulk fuel, waste energy, energy conservation, energy efficiency, or alternative energy facilities or equipment, either inside or outside the state, and for the sale or transmission of power from a project or any right to the capacity of it or for the security of any bonds of the authority issued or to be issued for the project; (11) to enter into contracts with any person and with the United States and, subject to the laws of the United States and subject to the concurrence of the legislature, with a foreign country or its agencies for the purchase, sale, exchange, transmission, or use of power generated by from a project, or any right to the capacity of it with any person and with the United States, and, subject to the laws of the United States and subject to the concurrence of the legislature, with a foreign country or its agencies; (12) to apply to the appropriate agencies of the state, the United States, and to a foreign country and any other proper agency for the permits, licenses, or approvals as may be necessary, and to acquire, construct, maintain, and operate power projects in accordance with the licenses or permits, and to obtain, hold, and use the licenses and permits in the same manner as any other person or operating unit; (13) to perform feasibility studies with respect to hydroelectrical and fossil fuel power generating projects; (1413) to enter into contracts or agreements with respect to the exercise of any of its powers, and do all things necessary or convenient to carry out its corporate purposes and exercise the powers granted in this chapter; (15) to exercise the power of eminent domain in accordance with AS 09.55.250 - 09.55.410. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) (14) to recommend to the legislature (A) the pledge of the credit of the state to guarantee repayment of all or any portion of revenue bonds issued to assist in construction of power projects; 4 (B) an appropriation from the general fund (i) for debt service on bonds or other project purposes; or (ii) to reduce the amount of debt financing for the project; (15) to carry out the powers and duties assigned to it under AS 42.45; (16) to make grants or loans to any person and enter into contracts or other transactions regarding the grants or loans; (17) to promote energy conservation, energy efficiency, and alternative energy through training and public education; (18) to acquire a Susitna River power project, whether by construction, purchase, gift, or lease, including the acquisition of property rights and interests by eminent domain under AS 09; (19) to perform feasibility studies and engineering and design with respect to power projects. Sec. 44.83.085. Susitna River power project annual report. The authority shall prepare, not later than the first day of each regular session of the legislature, an annual report summarizing the status of the Susitna River power project and shall notify the legislature that the report is available. Sec. 44.56.090; Power contracts. Sec. 44.83.090. Power contracts and the Regulatory Commission of Alaska. (a) The authority shall, in addition to the other methods which that it may find advantageous, provide that a method by which municipal electric, rural electric, cooperative electric, or private electric utilities and regional electric authorities, or other persons authorized by law to engage in the distribution of power electricity may secure a reasonable share of the power generated by a project, or any interest in it a project, or for any right to the capacity of it power and shall sell the power or cause the power to be sold at prices representing cost of generation the lowest reasonable prices that cover the full cost of the electricity or services, plus including capital and operating charges costs, plus a fair cost of transmission, all as determined by the directors, and subject to conditions which assure the resale of the power to retail consumers at the lowest possible price debt coverage as considered appropriate by the authority, and other charges that may be authorized by this chapter. Except for a contract or lease entered into under former AS 44.83.380 — 44.83.425, a contract or lease for the sale, transmission, and distribution of power generated by a project or any right to the capacity of it shall provide (1) for payment of all operating and maintenance expenses of a project and costs of renewals, replacements, and improvements of it; (2) for interest on and amortization charges sufficient to retire bonds of the authority issued for the project and reserves for them, plus a debt service coverage factor as may be determined by the authority to be necessary for the marketability of its bonds; (3) for continuous control and operation monitoring of the project by the authority or its agents; (4) for full and complete disclosure to the authority of all factors of cost in the transmission and distribution of power, so that rates to any persons may be fixed initially in the contract or lease and may be adjusted from time to time on the basis of true cost data; (5) for periodic revisions of the service and rates to persons on the basis of accurate cost data obtained by the accounting methods and systems approved by the directors and in furtherance and effectuation of the policy declared in this chapter; (6) for the cancellation and termination of a contract or lease upon violation of its terms by any person; (7) for security for performance as the authority may consider practicable and advisable, including provisions assuring the continuance of the distribution and transmission of power generated by a project, and the use of their its facilities for these purposes,; and the continuance of an outlet and adequate market for the power generated by the project; 5 (8) other terms not inconsistent with the provisions and policy of this chapter as the authority may consider advisable. Contracts to sell power are subject to review by the Alaska Public Utilities Commission. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) (b) The authority is not subject to the jurisdiction of the Regulatory Commission of Alaska. Nothing in this chapter grants the authority jurisdiction over the services or rates of a public utility or diminishes or otherwise alters the jurisdiction of the Regulatory Commission of Alaska with respect to a public utility, including any right the commission may have to review and approve or disapprove contracts for the purchase of electricity by a public utility other than wholesale agreements and contracts described in AS 42.05.431(c)(1). Sec. 44.83.092. Authority for municipalities and utilities to enter into power sales contracts. The authority and any municipality or public or private entity operating an electric utility, or a municipality or private entity and another municipality or private entity, may enter into a contract providing for or relating to the sale of electric power by the authority to the municipality or entity, or by the municipality or entity to another municipality or entity. The contract may provide (1) that the amounts payable under the contract are operating expenses of the utility and are valid and binding obligations of the municipality or other entity payable from the gross revenues of the utility; (2) for one or more appropriations of the amounts payable under the contract; (3) for the municipality or other entity to assume the obligations of another contracting party in the event of a default by that party; (4) that after completion of a project the municipality or other entity is obligated to make payments notwithstanding a suspension or reduction in the amount of the power supplied by the project; or (5) that payments under the contract are not subject to reduction by offset or otherwise. Article 3. Financial Provisions. Sec. 44156.10.0. Bonds of the authority. Sec. 44.83.100. Bonds of the authority. (a) The authority may borrow money and may issue bonds, including but not limited to bonds on which the principal and interest are payable (1) exclusively from the income and receipts or other money derived from the project financed with the proceeds of the bonds; (2) exclusively from the income and receipts or other money derived from designated projects whether or not they are financed in whole or in part with the proceeds of the bonds; (3) from its income and receipts or other assets generally, or a designated part or parts of them; or (4) from one or more revenue-producing contracts including a contract providing for the security of the bonds made by the authority with any person. The authority may issue bonds to pay, fund, or refund the principal of, or interest or redemption premiums on, bonds issued by it, whether or not the bonds or interest to be funded or refunded have become due. (b) Bonds shall be authorized by resolution of the authority, and shall be dated and shall mature as the resolution may provide, except that no bond may mature more than 50 years from the date of its issue. Bonds shall bear interest at the rates, be in the denominations, be in the form, either coupon or registered, carry the registration privileges, be executed in the manner, be payable in the medium of payment, at the places, and be subject to the terms of redemption which the resolution or a subsequent resolution may provide. (c) All bonds, regardless of form or character, shall be negotiable instruments for all the purposes of the Uniform Commercial Code AS 45.01 — AS 45.08, AS 45.12, AS 45.14, and AS 45.29 (Uniform Commercial Code). (d) All bonds may be sold at public or private sale in the manner, for the price or prices, and at the time or times which the authority may determine. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.83.105. Bonds for power projects under the energy program for Alaska. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] 6 Sec. 44.56.110. Trust indentures and trust agreements. Sec. 44.83.110. Trust indentures and trust agreements. (a) In the discretion of the authority, an issue of bonds may be secured by a trust indenture or trust agreement between the authority and a corporate trustee (which may be a trust company, bank, or national banking association, with corporate trust powers, located inside or outside the state) or by a secured loan agreement or other instrument or under a resolution giving powers to a corporate trustee by means of which the authority may (1) make and enter into any and all the covenants and agreements with the trustee or the holders of the bonds which that the authority may determine to be necessary or desirable, including, without limitation, covenants, provisions, limitations, and agreements as to (A) the application, investment, deposit, use, and disposition of the proceeds of bonds of the authority or of money or other property of the authority or in which it has an interest; (B) the fixing and collection of rentals, charges, fees, or other consideration for, and the other terms to be incorporated in, contracts with respect to a project or to generated power; (C) the assignment by the authority of its rights in contracts with respect to a project or to generate power or in a mortgage or other security interest created with respect to a project or generated power to a trustee for the benefit of bondholders; (D) the terms and conditions upon which additional bonds of the authority may be issued; (E) the vesting in a trustee of rights, powers, duties, funds, or property in trust for the benefit of bondholders, including, without limitation, the right to enforce payment, performance, and all other rights of the authority or of the bondholders, under a lease, power of contract, contract of sale, mortgage, security agreement, or trust agreement with respect to a project by mandamus injunction or other proceeding or by taking possession of by agent or otherwise and operating a project and collecting rents or other consideration and applying the same in accordance with the trust agreement; (2) pledge, mortgage, or assign money, leases, agreements, property, or other rights or assets of the authority either presently in hand or to be received in the future, or both; and (3) provide for any other matters of like or different character which that in any way affect the security or protection of the bonds. (b) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, the trust indenture, the trust agreement, secured loan agreement, or other instrument or the resolution constituting a contract with bondholders shall contain a covenant by the authority that it will at all times maintain rates, fees, or charges sufficient to pay, and that a contract entered into by the authority for the sale, transmission, or distribution of power shall contain rates, fees, or charges sufficient to pay the costs of operation and maintenance of the project, the principal of and interest on bonds issued under the trust agreement as the same severally become due and payable, to provide for debt service coverage as considered necessary by the authority for the marketing of its bonds and to provide for renewals, replacements, and improvements of the project, and to maintain reserves required by the terms of the trust agreement. This subsection does not require a covenant that varies from a covenant entered into in accordance with the provisions of former AS 44.83.380 — 44.83.425. (c) For the purpose of securing any one or more issues of its bonds, the authority may establish one or more special funds, called "capital reserve funds", and shall pay into those capital reserve funds the proceeds of the sale of its bonds and any other money which may be made available to the authority for the purposes of those funds from any other source. The funds shall be established only if the authority determines that the establishment would enhance the marketability of the bonds. All money held in a capital reserve fund, except as provided in this section, shall be used as required, solely for (1) the payment of the principal of, and interest on, bonds or of the sinking fund payments with respect to those bonds, (2) the purchase or redemption of bonds, or (3) the payment of a redemption premium required to be paid when those bonds are redeemed before maturity; however, money in a fund may not be 7 withdrawn from it at any time in an amount which would reduce the amount of that fund to less than the capital reserve requirement set out in (2) of this subsection, except for the purpose of making, with respect to those bonds, payment, when due, of principal, interest, redemption premiums, and the sinking fund payments for the payment of which other money of the authority is not available. Income or interest earned by, or increment to, a capital reserve fund, due to the investment of the fund or any other amounts in it, may be transferred by the authority to other funds or accounts of the authority to the extent that the transfer does not reduce the amount of the capital reserve fund below the capital reserve fund requirement. (d) If the authority decides to issue bonds secured by such a capital reserve fund, the bonds may not be issued if the amount in the capital reserve fund is less than such a per cent, not exceeding 10 per cent of the principal amount of all of those bonds secured by that capital reserve fund then to be issued and then outstanding in accordance with their terms, as may be established by resolution of the authority an amount as may be established by resolution of the authority (called the “capital reserve fund requirement”), unless the authority, at the time of issuance of the obligations, deposits in the capital reserve fund from the proceeds of the obligations to be issued or from other sources, an amount which, together with the amount then in the fund, will not be less than the capital reserve fund requirement. (e) In computing the amount of a capital reserve fund for the purpose of this section, securities in which all or a portion of the funds are invested shall be valued by some reasonable method established by the authority by resolution. Valuation on a particular date shall include the amount of any interest earned or accrued to that date. (f) The chairman of the authority shall annually, no later than January 2, make and deliver to the governor and the legislature his a certificate stating the sum, if any, required to restore any capital reserve fund to the capital reserve fund requirement. The legislature may appropriate such a sum, and all sums appropriated during the then current fiscal year by the legislature for such restoration shall be deposited by the authority in the proper capital reserve fund. Nothing in this section creates a debt or liability of the state. (g) When the authority has created and established a capital reserve fund, the commissioner of revenue may lend surplus money in the general fund to the authority for deposit in a capital reserve fund in an amount equal to the capital reserve fund requirement. The loans shall be made on such terms and conditions as may be agreed upon by the commissioner of revenue and the authority, including without limitation terms and conditions providing that the loans need not be repaid until the obligations of the authority secured and to be secured by the capital reserve fund are no longer outstanding. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) (h) If the authority decides to covenant to issue or to issue bonds secured by a capital reserve fund, the bonds may not be issued until 10 days after the authority has mailed notification to the state bond committee and the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee by certified mail of its intention to establish a capital reserve fund to secure the bond issue. The notification shall include the amount of the capital reserve fund to be established, the amount of bonds proposed to be issued, and the total cost of the project for which the bonds are to be issued. The notification shall be accompanied by an estimate by the authority of the need to withdraw money from the capital reserve fund during the term of the bond issue, the amount that it may be necessary to withdraw, and the time at which withdrawals are estimated to be needed. The authority shall annually prepare a revised estimate, considering the same factors, and a statement of all withdrawals that have occurred from the date of issuance of the bonds to the end of the calendar year. The revised estimate and statement shall be submitted to the state bond committee and the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee by January 30 of the succeeding year. Sec. 44.56.120. Validity of pledge. Sec. 44.83.120. Validity of pledge. It is the intention of the legislature that a pledge made in respect of bonds shall be is considered perfected and is valid and binding from the time the pledge is made; that the money or property so pledged and thereafter received by the authority shall immediately be subject to the lien of the pledge without physical 8 delivery or further act; and that the lien of the pledge shall be valid and binding as against all parties having claims of any kind in tort, contract, or otherwise against the authority irrespective of whether the parties have notice. Neither the resolution, trust agreement, nor any other instrument by which a pledge is created need be recorded or filed under the provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code AS 45.01 — AS 45.08, AS 45.12, AS 45.14, and AS 45.29 (Uniform Commercial Code) to be perfected or to be valid, binding, or effective against the parties. (§ 1 ch 278 SJA 1976) Sec. 44.56.130. Nonliability on bonds. Sec. 44.83.130. Nonliability on bonds. (a) Neither the members of the authority nor a person executing the bonds is liable personally on the bonds or is subject to personal liability or accountability by reason of the issuance of the bonds. (b) The bonds issued by the authority do not constitute an indebtedness or other liability of the state or of a political subdivision of the state, except the authority, but shall be payable solely from the income and receipts or other funds or property of the authority. The authority may not pledge the faith or credit of the state or of a political subdivision of the state, except the authority, to the payment of a bond and the issuance of a bond by the authority does not directly or indirectly or contingently obligate the state or a political subdivision of the state to apply money from, or levy or pledge any form of taxation whatever to the payment of the bond. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.140. Pledge of the state. Sec. 44.83.140. Pledge of the state. The state pledges to and agrees with the holders of bonds issued under this chapter and with the federal agency which loans or contributes funds in respect to a project, that the state will not limit or alter the rights and powers vested in the authority by this chapter to fulfill the terms of a contract made by the authority with the holders or federal agency, or in any way impair the rights and remedies of the holders until the bonds, together with the interest on them with interest on unpaid installments of interest, and all costs and expenses in connection with an action or proceeding by or on behalf of the holders, are fully met and discharged. The authority is authorized to include this pledge and agreement of the state, insofar as it refers to holders of bonds of the authority, in a contract with the holders, and insofar as it relates to a federal agency, in a contract with the federal agency. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.150. Tax exemption. Sec. 44.83.150. Tax exemption. All property of the authority is public property devoted to an essential public and governmental function and purpose and is exempt from all taxes of the state or a political subdivision of the state.; however, the authority may make payments in place of taxes in amounts equal to the real and personal property taxes that would be assessed on its real and personal property by each political subdivision in which its property is located to the same extent as if that property were private property and the authority were a non-public corporation. All bonds issued under this chapter are issued by a body corporate and public of this state and for an essential public and governmental purpose and the bonds and the interest and income on and from the bonds and all income of the authority are exempt from taxation except for transfer, inheritance, and estate taxes. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.160. Bonds legal investments for fiduciaries. Sec. 44.83.160. Bonds legal investments for fiduciaries. The bonds of the authority are securities in which all public officers and bodies of the state and all municipalities and municipal subdivisions, all insurance companies and associations and other persons carrying on any insurance business, all banks, bankers, trust companies, savings banks, savings associations, including savings and loan associations and building and loan associations, investment companies and other persons carrying on a banking business, all administrators, guardians, executors, trustees and other fiduciaries, and all other persons whatsoever who are now or may hereafter be 9 authorized to invest in bonds or other obligations of the state, may properly and legally invest funds including capital in their control or belonging to them. Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, the bonds of the authority are also securities which that may be deposited with and may be received by all public officers and bodies of this state and all municipalities and municipal subdivisions for any purpose for which the deposit of bonds or other obligations of the state is now or may hereafter be authorized. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Secs. 44.83.162 — 44.83.165. Power cost equalization. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993. For present law, see AS 42.45.100 — 42.45.190.] Sec. 44.83.170. Power project fund. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993. For present law, see AS 42.45.010.] Secs. 44.83.177 — 44.83.185. Reconnaissance and feasibility studies. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.186. Final cost estimate and reauthorization by the legislature. [Repealed, § 27 ch 89 SLA 1983.] Secs. 44.83.187 — 44.83.189. Applicability of sections; project construction. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Secs. 44.83.190 — 44.83.240. [Renumbered as AS 44.83.900 — 44.83.995.] Secs. 44.83.300 — 44.83.360. Susitna River hydroelectric project. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Secs. 44.83.361 , 44.83.363. Rural electrification revolving loan fund. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.370. Electrical service extension fund established. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Article 4. Power Project Revolving Fund. Article 4. Power Projects. Sec. 44.56.170. Fund established, (a) There is established as a separate fund the power project revolving fund which shall be administered by the authority as a trust fund separate and distinct from any other money or funds of the authority. (b) The authority may make loans from the fund, at such interest rate or rates as it determines, to eligible borrowers to pay the costs of feasibility studies, preconstruction engineering, design and construction of hydroelectric and fossil fuel power projects. (c) The authority may make loans from the funds, at such interest rates as it determines, to cities, boroughs, village corporations, village councils and nonprofit marketing cooperatives for purposes of constructing, equipping, and the initial filling of fuel storage facilities, and for other energy requirements, including but not limited to electrical utilities, geothermal, solar, hydroelectric, or windpower energy production, or for natural gas line construction. (d) Repayment of the loans shall be secured in such manner as the authority determines is feasible to assure repayment under a loan agreement entered into with the borrower. Under a loan agreement repayment may be deferred until the project with respect to which a loan is made has achieved earnings from its operations sufficient to pay the loan. (e) As used in this section an ''eligible borrower" is a municipality or public utility as defined in AS 42.05.701-(2)(A). (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Article 5. General Provisions. Sec. 44.56.180. Construction of projects. The authority shall submit a statement outlining the general design, demonstration of financial feasibility, and maximum amount of bonds estimated to be necessary for each new project to the legislature and the commissioner of commerce and economic development, together with a statement that the authority 10 intends to design, acquire and construct the project itself or that it intends that the project be designed, acquired or constructed by the United States or another person under agreement with the authority providing for ownership of all or a portion of the project by the authority or of a right to the capacity of it. If the legislature adopts a joint resolution approving the general design and maximum amount of bonds, the authority shall, in accordance with the terms of the joint resolution, (1) proceed to design, acquire and construct the new project, or (2) agree with the United States or other person for design, acquisition and construction of the project by the United States, for payments to the United States or other person for such design, acquisition and construction, reimbursement by the United States or other person in certain events, and otherwise on the terms and conditions as may be set out in such agreement. If the new project is to be designed, acquired and constructed by the authority, it shall be designed, acquired and constructed as a public work of the state except that public bidding shall not be required, if the authority so determines on projects in excess of $50,000,000. For the purpose of this section a new project does not include an addition or modification to an existing project if the total cost of the addition or modification does not exceed $1,000,000, to any repair or reconstruction of a project, or to any design, acquisition or construction necessary to complete a project for which bonds previously authorized by the legislature have been issued. Any such addition, modification, repair, reconstruction, design, acquisition or construction may be undertaken by the authority without any of the approvals necessary for a new project. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.83.380. Program established. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.382. Power development fund established. (a) A power development fund is established in the Alaska Energy Authority to carry out the purposes of former AS 44.83.380 — 44.83.425. (b) The fund includes money appropriated to it by the legislature. Sec. 44.83.384. Use of fund balance. (a) The fund may be used by the authority to provide money for (1) the defeasance of bonds, or the payment of debt service on loans for or on an issue of bonds sold in connection with a power project constructed or acquired before August 11, 1993; (2) the cost of operating and maintaining power projects constructed or acquired before August 11, 1993; and (3) debt service on power projects constructed or acquired before August 11, 1993. (b) [Repealed § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] (c) [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.386. Investment of fund. The authority shall invest the money in the fund in the manner provided in AS 37.10.070, 37.10.071, and 37.10.075. The authority may withdraw money from the fund only after costs have been incurred or amounts in the fund have been otherwise obligated under contracts for the acquisition and construction of a project. Sec. 44.83.388. Allotment to projects. (a) The authority shall maintain records of power project allocations from the fund for each power project (1) approved in accordance with former AS 44.83.185; and (2) for which an allocation is made from an appropriation made by the legislature without specifying 11 an appropriation to a project. (b) Income earned from investment of money appropriated to the fund shall be deposited in the general fund and may be appropriated to the fund by the legislature. Secs. 44.83.390., 44.83.392. Reappropriation of fund balance; lapse of excess appropriations. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.394. Revenue requirements. [Repealed, § 27 ch 89 SLA 1983.] Sec. 44.83.396. Operation of power project. (a) A power project that was acquired or constructed under AS 44.83.080(18) or as part of the former energy program for Alaska is owned, and shall be administered, by the authority. (b) When a power project has been acquired or constructed by the authority, the project may be operated for the authority under a contract or lease entered into by a qualified utility and the authority. (c) The authority shall enter into a contract or lease under reasonable terms and conditions to permit the applicant utility to operate the power project when the applicant utility is the only wholesale power customer to be served directly by the power project unless the authority determines a utility making application for a contract or lease to operate a power project is not a qualified utility or is not capable of operating that power project efficiently and in a manner that is consistent with national standards for the industry and with agreements with bondholders. (d) The authority shall adopt regulations to determine the manner of selecting a qualified utility to operate a power project under a contract or lease when there is more than one wholesale power customer to be served directly by the power project. (e) When the authority permits a power project to be operated by a qualified utility under a contract or lease, the authority shall (1) review and approve the annual budget for the operation and maintenance of the power project; and (2) assure that the project is being operated efficiently and in a manner that is consistent with national standards for the industry and agreements with bondholders. Sec. 44.83.398. Sale of power from power project. [Repealed, § 13 ch 60 SLA 2000.] Sec. 44.83.400. Energy conservation. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.410. Appropriation for Railbelt energy development. [Repealed, § 317 ch 171 SLA 1984.] Sec. 44.83.420. Continuing appropriation for Bradley Lake hydroelectric project. [Repealed, § 318 ch 171 SLA 1984.] Sec. 44.83.425. Definitions. In AS 44.83.382 — 44.83.425, (1) “debt service” means the amounts covenanted with respect to, or pledged to pay, bonds under a trust agreement securing bonds; (2) “fund” means the power development fund established by AS 44.83.382; (3) “qualified utility” means an electric utility or an electric operating entity established as an instrumentality of two or more electric utilities certified under AS 42.05 to serve all or part of a market area that is served or will be served by the power project, that the authority determines is capable of operating and maintaining the power project. 12 Article 5. Power Development Revolving Loan Fund. Sec. 44.83.500. Creation of fund. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.510. Powers and duties of authority in administering the fund. (a) Repayment of a loan from the former power development revolving loan fund must be made with the proceeds from the sale of power from projects in the former energy program for Alaska. (b) [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.520. Loan terms. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993.] Sec. 44.83.525. Rate reopeners. [Repealed, § 13 ch 60 SLA 2000.] Sec. 44.83.530. Definitions. In AS 44.83.500 — 44.83.530, (1) “fund” means the former power development revolving loan fund; and (2) “power project” means a project acquired or constructed under the former energy program for Alaska, AS 44.83.380 — 44.83.425. Secs. 44.83.600 — 44.83.650. Bulk fuel revolving loan fund. [Repealed, § 28 ch 18 SLA 1993. For present law, see AS 42.45.250 — 42.45.299.] Article 6. Miscellaneous and General Provisions. Sec. 44.56.190. Annual audit. Sec. 44.83.900. Annual audit. The authority shall have its financial records audited annually by a certified public accountant. The legislative auditor may prescribe the form and content of the financial records of the authority and shall have access to these records at any time. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.83.910. Limitations on issuance of bonds by the authority. The authority may not issue bonds except after 60 days notification of its intent to issue bonds is given to the governor and to the legislature, if the legislature is in session, or to the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee, if the legislature is not in session. Sec. 44.83.920. Insurance requirements in construction contracts. In requesting bids and awarding construction contracts under this chapter the authority may not require a contractor to obtain workers' compensation, general liability, or other required insurance from a particular insurer, agent, or broker and may not agree to provide insurance to a contractor who is awarded a construction contract. Sec. 44.83.930. Operation of projects. (a) When a project is operated by the authority, the authority shall enter into one or more contracts for the sale of electrical power, energy, transmission capacity, or service from the project. Unless the contract is entered into under former AS 44.83.380 — 44.83.425, a contract entered into under this section must meet all requirements of AS 44.83.090. (b) [Repealed, § 27 ch 89 SLA 1983.] (c) [Repealed, § 92 ch 36 SLA 1990.] 13 Sec. 44.56.200. Annual report. Sec. 44.83.940. Annual report. Before March 1 of each year, the authority shall submit to the governor and the legislature a comprehensive report describing operations, income and expenditures for the preceding 12-month period. The authority shall notify the legislature that the report is available. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.210. Budget and appropriations. Sec. 44.83.950. Appropriations and reports. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision in this chapter, the authority is subject to the provisions of AS 37.07 (Executive Budget Act). The authority shall submit its annual budget to the legislature through the governor as provided for state agencies by the Executive Budget Act (AS 87 .07). It may expend money directly appropriated by the legislature only as authorized by the legislature. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) (b) The authority shall, by the 15th day of each regular legislative session, prepare a report detailing project status, original costs, and projected costs, particularly highlighting any costs in excess of the original cost estimates submitted for each project when that project was originally approved by the legislature. The authority shall notify the legislature that the report is available. Sec. 44.83.960. Long-term energy plan. [Repealed, § 16 ch 134 SLA 1990.] Sec. 44.56.220. Public records; open meetings. Sec. 44.83.970. Public records; open meetings. The provisions of AS 09.25.110 - 09.25.120 and AS 44.62.310 - 44.62.312 AS 40.25.110 — 40.25.120 and AS 44.62.310 — 44.62.319 (Open Meetings Act) apply to the authority. The authority shall publish a proposed agenda of its meetings and afford the public an opportunity to be heard in accordance with AS 44.62.312. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sect 44.56.230. Definitions. Sec. 44.83.990. Definitions. In this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise, (l) "authority" means the Alaska Power Authority Alaska Energy Authority established by this chapter; (2) ''bonds" means bonds, notes, or other obligations of the authority issued under this chapter; (3) “feasibility study” (A) means a study conducted for the purpose of establishing the economic and environmental practicality of completing a proposed power project; (B) includes engineering and design work to meet the requirements for submission of a license application for a proposed new project to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; (4) “person” includes a public agency in addition to the entities set out in AS 01.10.060(a)(8); (35) “power" includes any and all electrical energy generated, distributed, bought, or sold for purposes of lighting, heating, power, and every other useful purpose; (46) ''power project" or "project" means a plant, works, system, or facility, water rights, fuel deposits or sources, and real estate and personal property of any nature whatsoever, together with all related or necessary facilities and appurtenances, related to them or necessary for the purposes of them used or useful in the generation by means of water or fossil fuel of electric power and the production, transmission, purchase, sale, exchange and interchange of electric power, and shall include any interest in them, whether divided or undivided, or any right to the capacity of them. including a divided or undivided interest in or a right to the capacity of a power project or project, that is used or is useful for the purpose of (A) electrical or thermal energy production; 14 (B) waste energy utilization and energy conservation; or (C) transmission, purchase, sale, exchange, and interchange of electrical or thermal energy, including district heating or interties; (57) "public agency" means any city or other municipal corporation, political subdivision, governmental unit, or public corporation created by or under the laws of this state or of another state of the United States, and any state or the United States, and any person, board, or other body declared by the laws of any state or the United States to be a department, agency, or instrumentality of them. (§ l ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.240. Short title. Sec. 44.83.995. Short title. This chapter may be cited as the Alaska Power Authority Energy Authority Act. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Retired Co/lect/0/f ALASKA STATUTES Title 44. ••. State Government I)~ember 1976 A~ASKA STATUTES . . § 44.53;020 Se~. 44;50~180~ Postmasters "s notaries. (a) Each postmaster in the s~te may performthe functions of a notary public in the state. • • (b)' Each official act of a postmaster as a notary public shall be signed by the postmaster; with a· designation of his ti.tie as postmaster, shall • have the cancellation stamp ()fthe post office affixed, and shall state the name of the post office and the date on which the_ act was done. (c) The postmaster may charge and receive the same fees as a notary for similar services. (§ 13 ch 99. SLA 1961) Sec., 44.50:190. Saving!! clause. This chapter shall not be construed as to effect the release or extingilishnient of a liability or forfeitul,'e . incurred or right accruing under a previous law regulating notaries. All . comtnissfons prese:ntly -in effect. continue until t_hey expire or are terminated by death,. disqualification, resignation, removal from the •• state, or until the notary is removed from office by the lieutenant govel,'nQr under ,the Administrative Procedure Act (AS 44.62). (§ 14 ·ch , 99 SLA 1961) . . Section · Chapter 53. Foreign Commissioners for Acknowledgments . 10. Appointment, _term of office, and powers 20. Qualifying for office Sec. 44.53,010. Appointment, term of office, and ·powers. The governor may appoint as many commissioners in each state, territory, and district of the United States as he considers expedient. Each commissioner holds office for four years. Within the state, territory, or • district for w}_lich appointed, each commissioner may take and certify (1) the proof or acknowledgment of a conveyance of re11Lproperty within the district Ol,' of any other written instrument to be used or operated in it; (2) the acknowledgment of satisfaction of a judgment of a court of this disti:-ict; • . (3) an affidavit or deposition to be used in a court or before a judicial officer of the district. (§ 10-6-1 ACLA 1949) Am. Jur. reference. -1 _ Am. Jur., Acknowledgments, §§ 64 to 66, 105, 173. • Sec; 44;53.020. Qualffying for office. Before exercising his powers, a: commissioner appointed under § 10 of this chapter shall have a seal of office, and take an o_ath before a judicial officer in the county, city, or town where _he resides, that he will faithfully perform the duties of the office. The commissioner shall file the oath and an impression of the 100 § 44.58.020 STATE GO".'ERNMENT § 44.58.020 sealinthe office of the Department·of Administration._The Department of Administration shall collect $5 for each certificate of appointment and shall account for and deposit the amounts'received in the state treasury.· (§ 10-6~2 ACLA 1949) • Part 4. Independent State Boards, Associations, • Commissions, and Corporations. . . Chapter . 56. Alaska_Power_ Authority,(§§ 44.56.010 -44.56.240) 57. Alaska Toll Bridge Authority(§§ 44,57.01~ -44,57.340) 58. Alaska: Municipal Bond Bank Authority (§§ 44.58.005 _;_ 44.58.420) 59'. State Development Corporation (§§ 44.59.010'.....:. 44.59.450) • 60. Small Business Development Corporation of Alaska(§§ 44.60.010- 44.60.890) 61. Alaska Industrial Development Authority (§§ 44.61.010 - 44.61.220) Chapter 56. Alaska Power Authority .. • Article . · , 1. Creation and Organization (§§ 44.56,010 ...:._ 4'4.56.050) 2. Purpose and Powers (§§ 44.56.070 -44.56.090) · 3. Financial Provisions(§§ 44.56.100-44.56.160) 4. Power Project Revolving Fund(§ 44.56.170) 5. General Provisions(§§ 44.56.180 -44.56.240) Repeal of former chapter. -Section 1, as follows: 1. Creation and Organization ch. 64, SLA 1975, repealed former Chapter (§§ 44.56.010 -44.56.080); 2. Powers and 66, entitled "State Mortgage Association," Duties (§§ 44.66.090 -44.66.096); 8. which derived from §§ 1-10, ch. 108, SLA Financial Provisions (§§ 44;66.100 -'- 1961; § 1, ch. 97, SLA 1962; §§ -1, 2, ch. 40, 44,56.2rO); 4. • General Provisions SLA 1968; § 1, ch. 36, SLA 1966, The (§ 44.56.280). .former chapter consisted of four articles, Article 1. Creation and Organization. Section 10. Legislative finding and policy 20. Creation of authority 30 .. Membership of the authority Section 40. Officers an_d quorum 50. Staff 101 § 44.56.010 ALASKA STATUTES § 44.56.040 Sec. 44,56;010. Legislative finding and, policy. (a) The legislature finds, determines and declares that , • (1) there exist numerous potential hydroelectric and fossil fuel gathering sites in the state; • . , (2) the·establishment of power projects at the1:1e sites.is necessary 1to. • . supply lower cost power to the state's municipal t!lectric, rural electr~c, cooperative electric, and private electric utilities, and regional electric authorities, a,nd thereby to the consumers of the state, as well as to supply existing or future industrial needs; (3) the achievement of the goals of lower consumer power costs and lorig-tertn. economic growth and of , establishing, operating and developing power projects in the state wiBbe accel~rated and facilitated by the creation of an instrumentality ~f the state with powers to incur debt for constructing, anfi with 1 powers to ?perate, power projects. (b) It is declared to .be the policy of the state, in the interests of . promoting the general welfare of all the people of the state, and public purposes, to reduce consumer power costs and otherwise to encourage • the long-term economic growth of the state, including the development of its natural resources, through the.establishment.of power projects by creating the public !corporation with powers, duties and functions as_ - . provided in this chapter.(§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56,020. Creation of ~uthority. ·There i~ created the Alaska Power Authority. The authority is a public corporation of the state in the Department of Commerce and Economic Development but with SE:)parate and indepe11dent legal existenc¢; (§ tch :278 SLA 1976) • Sec. 44.56.030. Membership oftlte authority. The authority consists of the commissioner of commerce.and economic development and four public members .appointed by the governor. The appointment of each director other than die commissioner of Commerce. and economic development is subject to confirmation by the legislature. The directors must be re1>idents of .the state and qualified voters at the time of appointment and, shall comply with the rf:)quirements of AS 39.50 (conffict of interest). The term.ofofficeof each director appointed by the goyerrior is four years except that the directors first appoint!)d shall ha\te terms of one, two, three, and four years, respectively. A vacancy in a directorship occurring other than by expiration of term shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment .but for the· unexpired term only.(§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) .Sec, 44.56.040. Officers and quorum. The directors.shall elect one of the public members as chairman and other officers they determine , desirable. The powers of the authority are vested in the directors, and · three directors of the authority constitute a quorum. Action may be taken and motions and resolutions adoptea by the authority ·at a meeting by the affirmative vote of at least three directors. The directors of the authority serve without compensation, but they shall receive the same 102 • § 44.56.050 STATE GOVERNMENT .§ • 44.56.080 travel pay and per diem as provided by law for boa;d members. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) • • Sec. 44.56:050. Staff. The authority shall employ an exec,utive . director who may with the approval of the authority select and eniplo,y additional staff as necessary. In addition to its staff ,of regular· employees, the authority may contract for and engage the services 'of the bond 'counsel, consultants, • experts, and financial advisors the authority . considers • necessary for the ' purpose of • developing information, or conducting studies, investigations, hearings, or other -proceedings. The director is subiect to confirmation by the legisiature. , (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Article 2. Purpose and Powers. Section 70. :Purpose of the authority 80. Powers of the authority 90 .. Power contracts • Sec. 44.56;070. Purpose of the authority. The • purpose of the authority is to promote, develop and advance the general prosperity and economic welfare of the people of. Alaska by providing a means of constructing, acquiring, financing and operating hydroelectric and foss.il fuel generating projects; (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) • Sec. 44.56.080. Powers of the authority. In-fu~therance of its corporate purposes, .the authority has the following powers in addition to its other powers: (1) to sue and be sued; - (2) to. have a seal arid alter it at pleasure; (3) to make and alter . bylaws for its organization and internal management; • • (4) to • make rules and regulations governing the exercise of its corporate powers; (5) to acquire, whether by construction, purchase, gift or lease, and to improve, equip and operate power projects; (6) to issue bonds· to carcy out any of its corporate purposes and powers, including the acquisition or construction of a project to be owned or leased, as lessor or lessee, by the authority, or the acquisition of any interest in it or any right to capacity of it, the establishment. or increase of reserves to secure or to pay the borids or interest on them, and the payment of all other costs or expenses of the authority incident to and necessary or convenient.to carry: out its corporate purposes and powers; (7) to sell, lease as lessor. or lessee, exchange, donate, convey or encumber in any manner by mortgage. or by creation of any. other. security.interest, real or personal property owned by it, or in which it has an interest, when, in the judgment of the authority, the action is in furtherance of its corporate purposes; • ALASKA. STATUTES § 44.56.090 • '((8) t<>'~ccept gifts, grants or loans from, and enter into contracts or othe~ tta;nsactjons regarding them, with a federal agency o:r an agency <>rln~gµ~entality of the -state, municipality, private organization_ or othEif soU:rce; _ _ • >J~)to d~pbsit. or invest its funds, subject to agreements with bondhplders; . -. _ (I._O)f~:enter into contracts with the United States or a11y person and, subJe~t to _the laws of the United States and subject· to concurrence of the legislature, with a foreign country or its, agencies, for the const:ru~tion, _a.cquisition, operation and maintenance of all or any part of a power proJect, either inside or outside the state, and for the sale or transmission of power from a project or any right to_ the capacity of it or for the security of any bonds of the authority issued or to be issued • • for the project; -__ • _ -. _(11) 1:° . enter into" contracts for the purchase, sale, exchange, -trans~1ss10~, o~ use of po~er generated by a project, or any right to the capacity of 1t with an~ person and with the-United States, and, subject to ~he laws of the Umted ~tates and subject to the concurrence of the legislature,· with a foreign country or its agencies; . • (12) to apply to the appropriate agencies C>f the state, the United State~ an~ to a foreign country and any other proper agency· for the per~mt~, licenses, or approvals as may be necessary, and to construct, mamtam and operate. power projects in accordance with the licenses or permits, andto obtain, hold and use the licenses and permits in the same manner-as any other person or operating unit; • _ (13) to perform f easlbility studies with respect to hydroelectrical and fossil fuel power generating projects; . __ _ (14) to ~nter into contracts or agreements with :i,-espect to the exercise of a~y of its powers, and do all things necessary_ or convenient to carry out its corporate purposes and exercise the powers granted in this ·-chapter; .. --· (15) to exercise the power of eminent domain in accordance_ with AS 09.55.250 -09.55.410. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) - -Sec. 44.56.090; Power contracts. The_ authority shall, in addition to other _methods which it may find advantageous, provide that municipal electric,_ rural electric, coopera~ive electric, or private electric utilities . and reg~onal el~ct~ic a~thorities or otherpersons ,authorized by law to engage m the_d1str1but1on of power may secure a reasonable share of the power ge?erate_d by a project, or any interest in it, or for any right to the c~pac1ty of 1t a~d shall sell the power or cause the power to be sold at prices representmg cost of generation, plus capital and operating c~arges, plus a fair_ cost of transmission, all as determined by the d1recto~s, and s4bject to conditions which assure the resale of the power to retail consumers at the lowest possible price. A contract for the sale t~an~mission and distribution of power generated hy a project or an; right to.the capacity of it shall provide· _ -_ , _104 § 44.56.100 STATE GOVERNMENT § 44.56.100 (1) for payment of all operating and maintenance expenses of a project and costs of renewals, replacements aIJ,d improvements of it; • • (2) for interest on and amortization charges sufficient to retire bonds of the authority issued for the project and. reserves for them, plus a debt service coverage-factor as may be determined by the authority to be necessary for the marketability of its bonds; (8) • for continuous coritrol and operation of the project by the aµth.ority or its agents; ' _ • (4) for full and complete_ disclosure to the authority of all factors of· cost in the transmission. and distribution of power, so that rates to any persons may be fixed initially in the contract and may be·adjusted from • time 'to time on the basis of true cost data; • • • • (5) for periodic revisions of the service and rates to persons on the basis of accurate cost data obtained by the accounting methods and systems approved by the directors and in furtherance and effectuation oJ the policy declared· in this chapter; (6) for the cancellation and termination of a contract upon violation of. its terms by any person; . (7) for security for performance as the authority may consider -practicable and advisable, including pl,'.ovisions assuring the continuance • of the· distribution and transmission of power generated by a project,_the use of their facilities for these purposes, and the continuance of an outlet and a.dequate·market for the power generated by the project;· • (8) other terms not inconsistent with the provisions and policy of this chapter as the authority may con.sider advisable. Contracts to sell power are subject to review by the Alaska Public Utilities Commission. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) - Article a. Financial Provisions. Section 100. Bonds of the authority 110. Trust indentures and agreements 120. Validity of pledge 180. Nonliability on bonds Section 140. P\edge of the state trust 150. Ta,sexemption 160. Bonds legal investments for fiduciaries Sec. 44156.10.0. Bonds of the authority. {a) The authority may borrow money and may issue bonds, including but not limited to bonds on which the principal and interest are payable (1) exclusjvely from the income and receipts or other money derived from the project financed with the proceeds of the bonds; (2) exclusively from the income· an<;l receipts or other money derived from designated projects whether or nof they are financed in Whole or in part with the proceeds ·of the bonds; (3) from its incoine and receipts or other a.ssets generally, or a designated part or parts of them; or (4) from one or more revenue-producing contracts including a contract providing for the security of the bonds made by the 105 ALASKA STATUTES § 44.56.110 i;{~t;it~:~th any person. The authority may iss1,1e bonds to pay, fund <>ttgfµn!iJlle principal of, or interest or redemption premiums on, bonds --iss~ed by it/whether or not the bonds or interest to be funded or refuiicfod< have become due, . :jh}B<>n.dsshall be authorized by resolution of the authority, and shall be'da;ted and shall mature as the·resolutionmay provide, except that no bond maYmature more than 50 years from the date of its issue. Bonds shall bea.r interest at the rates, be in the denominations, be•in the form, either coupon .-or . registered, carry the registration privileges, be executed)n the manner, be payable in the medium of payment, at the places, and be subject to the terms of redemption which the resohition or a _subse-quent resolutiori may p~ovide. (c) All bonds, regardless of form or character, shall be negotiable· instruments for all the purposes of the Uniform Commercial Code. (d) All bonds may be sold at public or priva~ sale in toe manner, for the price or prices1 and at the -time or times which the authority may ' d~terinine. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) -- Sec. 44.56.U0. Trust indent~res and trust agreements. (a) In the discretion of the authority, an issue of bonds may be secured by a trust ind,enture or trust agreement between the authority and a. corporate trust~e (which may be a·. trust company,, bank; or national banking association, with corporate trus_t powers, located inside or outside the state) or by a secured loan agreement or other instrument or under a resolution. giring powers to a corporate trustee by means of which the authority may -• -(1) make and enterinto any and all the covenants and agreements ~ith-the trustee or the holders of the_ bonds which the authority may determine to be necessary or desirable, including, without limitation, covenants, provisions, limitations a.nd agreements as to (A)· the application, investment, deposit, use and disposition of the proceeds of bonds of the authority or of money or other property of the authority or in. whic):i. it has an interest; • • - (B) the fixing and collection of rentals, -charges, fees or other -consideration for, and the other terms to be incorporated in, contracts . with respect to a project; : (C)' the-_ assignment by the authority of its rights in contracts with respect to.a project or in a mortgage or other security interest created with respect to a project to a trustee for the benefit of bondholders; (D) the terms and conditions upon which additional bon_ds of the authority may be issued; (E) ,the vesting in a trustee of rights, powers; duties, funds or property in trust for the benefit of bondholders, including, without limitation, the right to enforce payment, performance, and all other rights of the authority or of the bondholders, under a lease, power of contract, contr8;ct of sale, mortgage, security agreement, or trust agreement with respectto a proj!;!ct by mandamus or other proceeding 106 1 § 44.56.110 STATE GOVERN~ENT § 44.56.110 or by taking possession ofby agent or otherwise and operating a project and_ collecting rents or other consideration and applying the s~anie in accordance with. the trust agreement; (2) pledge, mortgage or assign money, leases, agreements, property or other rights or assets of the authority either presently in hand or to be received in the future, or both; and _ • (3) provide for apy other matters of like or different character which . in any way affect the security or protection of the bonds:· _ (b) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, 'the trust agreement shall contain a covenant by the authority that it will at all ·times maintain rates, fees or charges Sufficient to pay; and that a contract entered _into by the authority for the sale,· traIJ,smission o_r distribution of power shall contain rates, fees or charges sufficient to pay the costs of operation and maintenance of the project, the principal of h.nd interest on bonds issued under the trust agreement as the same severally become due and payable, to provide for debt seryice coverage as considered necessary bythe authority for the marketing of its bonds and to proyide for renewals, replacements and improvements of the project, and to maintain reserves required by the_ terms of the trust agreement. . . (c) For the. purpose of securing any one or more issues of its bonds, the authority may establish one or more special funds, called "capital - reserve funds", and -shall pay into those capital reserve funds the proceeds of the sale of its bonds arid. any other money which may be made available to the authority for the purposes of those funds from any other· source. The funds shall be established only if the authority determines that the establishment would enhance the marketability of the bonds._All money held in a capital reserve~fund, except as provided • in this section, shall be used as required, solely for (1) the payment of the· principal of, and interest on, bonds or of the sinking fund payments with respect to those bonds, (2) the purchase or redemption of bonds, or (3) the payment of a redemption premium required to be paid when those _ bonds are redeemed before maturity; however, money in a fund may not be withdrawn from it at any time in an amount which would reduce the amount of that fund to less than the capital reserve requirement,set out in (2) of this subsection, except for the purpose ·of making, with respect to those bonds, payment, when due, of principal, interest, redemption premiums and the sinking fund payments for the payment of which • - -other money of the authority is not available. Income or interest earned by, or increment to, a capital reserve f~nd, due to the investment of the fund or any other amounts in it; may be transferred by the authority to other funds or accounts of the authority to the extent that the transfer . does not reduce the amount of the capital reserve fund below the capital reserve fund requirement. ·• -(d) If the authority decides to issue bonds SE)Cured by such a cap!tal reserve fund,, the bonds may not be issued if the amount in the. capital 107 ALASKA STATUTES • § 44.56.180 , ' re!!e~f~m1d is less than such a per cent, not exceeding 10 per cent of ' the pr1n,c1p11-l. amount of all of those bonds secured by that capital reserve -fund then to be issued and then outstanding in accordance with their ter~s,,iis In8:Y ~e established by resolution of the authority (called the ''capitalrl!serve funq requirement:'), unless the authority, at the time of issu_ance of the obligations, deposits in the capital reserve fund from the pro~~ed~ _. of the obligations to ~ issued or from other sources, an amount whic~, together with the amou11t the.n fn the fund, will not be less than. the capital reserv:e fund requirement. . , (e) _In co~putirig th~ ~mo_unt o~ a ~api~l reserve fund for the purpose of this section, seC!unbes m w hlch all or· a portion of the funds are inveSte.d shall be valued by some reasonable method established by the authonty by resolution. Valuation on a particular date shall include.the amount of 11ny interest earned or accrued to that date. (f) The chairman of-the authority shall a~nually, no later than Jan~~ry 2, m~ke and deli~er to the_ governor arid the legislature his certificate statm~ the sum, 1f any, required to restore any capital reserve fund to. th~ c~p1tal reserve fqnd requirem~nt The legislature may appropr1a~ . such a sum,· and all sull'ls appropriated during the then current • fiscal year by the legislature·. for· such· restoration_ shall · be ?epo~ited b_y, the authority in the propercapital reserve fund. Nothing mthls section crea.tes a debt or liability of the state. • (g) Wheii the ~ut_hority has created a.nd established a capital reserve fund,_ the commissioner of reve,;me may lend surplus money in the general fund to the authority for deposit in a capital reserve fund in an amount equal to the capital reserv_e fund requirement.The loans shall be ma_de,_on such terms and conpitions as may be agreed upon by the co1:nm1ss1oner of revenue and the authority, including without limitation • term~ ~nd _conditions provid~ng that the loans need not be repaid until the obhgations of the authonty secured and to b,e secured by the capital res~rve fund are no longer outstanqing'. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) • Sec. 44.56.120. Validity of pledge. It is the i~tention of the legislatt1re that a pledge made in respect of QOnds shall be valid and binding from the time the pledge is made; that the money or' property so P_ledged and.thereafter received by the. authority shall immediately be su:t>Ject to the _he:n of the pledge wit~out.physical delivery or further i:i,ct; anji Jhat _the hen of the pledge shall be valid and binding as against all pa~t1Els hayin~ claims ?f any kind in tort, ~ontract or otherwise against the a11tpor1ty 1rrespect1ve of whether the parties have notice. Neither the ~esolutio~, _ trust agreement nor any other instrument by which a pledge 1s crea.teq 11ee,d be recorded or filed under the provisions of the Uniform Commerpia.l (;ode to be valid, binding or effective agaim~t the parties. (§ 1 _ch 278 SJ,,A:1976) -. • • '. - Sec! 44.56.faO. Nonliability oli bonds. (i Neither the members of the auth°,~ity n?r a person exec~ti~~ the borids i~ liable personally on the _ • bonds or1s subJectto personal hab1lity or accountability by reason of the issuance of the bonds. . - , § 44.56.140 . STATE GovEi~NMENT § 44.56,160 (b) The bonds issued by the authority do not constitute • an indebtedness or other liability of the state or of a Political subdivision of the state, except th.e authority, but shall be payable solely• from the income and receipts or other funds or property of the.authority: The authority may not pledge the faith or credit of the state or of a political subdivision of the state, except the authority, tci the payme~t of a bond and the issuance of a bond by the authority does not directly or indirectly • or contingently obligate the state or a political subdivision of the state to apply money from, or levy or pledge any form of taxation whatever _ to the payment of the bond; (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) ( _ • · . • S~c. 44.56.140. Pledge of the_ state. The state pledges to and agrees with the holders of bonds issued underthis chapter and with the federal •• agency which loans or contributes funds in respect to·a project, that the state will not limit or alter the rights and powers vested in the authority by this chapter to fulfill the terms of a contract made by the authority with the holders or federal agency, or in any way impair the rights and remedies· of .the holders until the bonds, together with the interest on. them with interest on unpaid lnstallments ofinterest, and :an costs and expenses in co11nection with an action or proceeding by or on behalf of the holders, are fully met and discharged. The authority is authorized to include this pledge and agreement or the state, insofar as it refers to • holders of bonds or the authority, in a contract with the holders, and insofar as it relates to a federal agency, in a contract with the federal agency. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1~76) Sec. 44.56;150. Tax exemption. All property of the authority is public property devoted to an essential public and governmental function and purpose and. is exempt from all taxes of the state or a political subdivision of the state. Ali bQnds issued urider this chapter are issued by a body corporate an~ public of this siate aQd for an essential public and governmental purpose and the bonds and the interest and income on .. and from the bonds and all income of the authority are exeinpt from taxation except for transfer, inheritance and estate taxes.(§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.160. Bonds legal investments for fiduciaries. The bonds of the authority are securities in which all public officers and bodies of the state and all municipalities and municipal subdivisions, all insurance companies an4 associations arid other persons carrying on any insurance . business, all banks, bankers, trust companies, savings banlcs, savings associations, including savings anq loan associations and bailding arid loan associations, investment companies and other persons carrying on a banking business, all administrators, guardians, executors, trustees and other fiduciaries, and aU other persons whatsoever who_are now or . may hereafter be authorized to invest in bonds or other obligations of _ the state, may properly and legally invest funds including capital in their control or belonging to them. Notwithstanding any other provisions of . 109 ALASKA STATUTES § 44.66.180 . law, the bonds of the 'authority are also securities which may be deposit~d with and may be received by all pu):>lic officers and bodies of _ · this state' and-all municipalities and municipal subdivisions for any purpose for which. the deposit of bonds or other obligations of the' state is now or rriay hereafter be authorized. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Article 4. Power Project Revolving Fund. Section· , 170. Fund established . Sec. 44.56.170 .. Fund established, (a) .. There· is established as a separate fund the power project revolving fund .which shall be administerep by the authority as a trust fti,nd ~eparate and distinct from a11y other money or funds of the au.thority. • • -, • (b) The authority may make ldaris from the. fund, 'at iuch interest rate or rates . as . it. determines, to eHgible borrowers to pay • the costs·· of feasipili~y studies, preconstructioh engineeNng, design and construction of hydr9electric and fossil fuel power proje~t( .. • . . . . . . • • • (c) The au,thority may-make loans from the funds; at such interest rates as it determines, to cities, borohghs;·village corporations, village coundls and nonprofit marketing cotipera,tives tor purposes of con- structing, equipping, and the initial filling of fuel storage facilities, and for other energy requirements, including but not limited to electrical utilities, geothermaJ, solar, hydroelectric, or windpower energy · production, or for natural gas line construction. • • ( d) Repayment of the-loans shall be secured in such man~er as the authority determines .is feasible to assure repayment under a loan , ag;reement .entered into with the borrower. Under a loan agreement repayment may be def erre.d until the project With respect to which a loan is made has .achieved earnings from its operations sufficient to pay the loan. · •. • (e) As .used in this s~ctfon an ''eligible borrower"is a municipality or public utility as defined in AS 42.05.701-(2)(A). (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) ' : : ·'.\ --.,, Article 5. General· Provisions. Section 180. • Construction· of projects mo. A1mual audit • ::!00. ,~nnu;il repi>rt • ::!10. Bud 0 get and appropriations Sectlor .. _ . 220. Public records; open meetings 280: Definitions • 240. Short title . . . Sec .. ~~-~6:1so: Constrnction of projects. The authority shaH submit a statemeht9utlit1irig the genera.I design, 'demonstration of financial , fe~sibiHty, 'and .l!laximum amount of bonds estimated to be necessary for _ , each. new project to the legislature and. the commissioner of commerce . • ... , _, ,. . ·, .', . • ' 110 § 44.66.190 STATE GOVERNMENT § 44.56.22Q and economic development, together with a statement that the authority , intends to design, acquire and construct the project itself or· that' it intends that the, project be de~igned, acquired or constructed by the United States or another person under agreement:With the authority providing for ownership of all or a portion of the project by the authority or of a right to the capacity of it. If the legislature adopts' a joint resolution approving the general design ana maximum amount of bonds, the authority shall, in accordance withtheterms of the joint resolution, (1) proceep to design, acquire and construct the new project, or (2fagree with the United States or other person for design,· acquisition and ·construction of the project by the United States, for payments to the United States or other person for such d~sign, acquii;iition-and construction, reimbursement by. the United States or· other person in certain events, and otherwis~ on the terms and conditions as may be set out in such agreement. If tlie new project is to be designe(,l,·acquired and constructed by the authority, it shall be designed, acquired and constructed as a public work of the state except that public bidding shall . not be reqliired, if the authority so determines on projects in excess of $60,000,000. · For the purpose of this. section. a new project does not include an addition or modification to an existing project if the total cost of the addition or modification does not exceed $1,000;000, to any repair or reconstruction of a project, or to any design, acquisition or construction neces!;lary· to complete a project for which bonds previously authorized by the. legislature have been issued. Any such addition, moclification, repair, reconstruction, design, acquisition or construction inay be undertaken by the authority without any of the approvals necessary for a new project.(§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.190. Annual audit. 'l'he authority shall have its financial records au.dited annually by a certified publi~ accountant. The legislative auditor may prescribe the form and content of the financial records of the authority and shall have access to these records at any time; (§ 1 ch _ 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.200. Annual report. Before March 1 of each year, the • authority. shall submit to the governor . and the legislature a comprehensive report de$cribing operations, income and expenditures for the preceding 12-month period. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) _ Sec. 44.56.210. Budget and apptopriations. The authority shall submit its· annual budget to the legislature through the governor as provided for state agencies by the Executive Budget Act (AS 87 .07). It rriay expend money directly appropriated by the legislature only as authorized by tJie legislature. (§ 1 ch· 278 SLA 1976) Sec. 44.56.220. Public records; open meetings. The. provisions of AS 09.25.110 -09.25,120 and AS 44.62.810 -44.62 .. 812 apply to the authority. The authority shall publish a proposed agenda of its meetings and afford the public an opportunity to be heard in accordance with AS 44.62.812. (§ 1 ch 278 SLA 1976) • • 11 • §' 44.56.230 ALASKA STATUTES § 44.57:.010 Sect 44.56.230. Definitions. In this chapter, unless the context . requires··• otherwise, (l) • "authority" means the Alask:a Power Authority established by this · chapteri • . • · . • ·. • _ • . (2) . ''bonds" means bonds, notE!s, or other obligations of the authority issuE!d under this chapter; . _ . . (3)_ ''power" includes any arid all electrical energy generated, d1str1b,µted; bought or sold for purposes of lighting, heating; power and every other useful purpose; • . (~); ''power pr?ject" or "proJec_t" means a plant, works, system, facility, water rights, fuel deposits or sources, and real estate and personal property of any nature whatsoever, t9gether with an facilities and appurtenances related to them or necessary for the, purposes of them used or useful in the generation by means of water or fossil fuel of electric power and the production, transmission; , purchase, • sale; ~xchang~ and; interchange 'Of electric power, and shall include any mterest m them, whether divided or undivided, or any right to the -capacity of them. • • (5) "public age11cy" means any city or other municipal corporation, • • political subdivision, governmental unit; or public corporation created by or under the laws of this state or of another state of the United States, and any state or the United States, and any person, board or other body declared by the laws of any state or . the United States to be· a department, agency, or instrumentality of them.(§ l ch 278 SLA 1976) 1. Sec .. 44.56.240. Short title. This chapter may be cited as the Alaska Power Authority Act. (§ _ 1 • ch 278 SLA 1976) Chapter 57. Alaska Toll Bridge Authority. Article 1. Creation arid Organization (§§ 4-t.57.010 -44.57.040) 2. Powe1;s and Duties(§§ 44.57.120 -44.57.190) . • 3. Financial Provisions(§§ 44.57.210 -44.57.270) 4. General Provisions(§§ 44.57.300 -44.57.340) Article· 1. Creation and Organization. Section Section 10. Alaska Toll Bridge Authority cre;ited 20. Majority rule • 30. Authority may employ personnel 40. Suits • . Sec. 44.57.QlO. Alaska Toll Bridge Authority created. (a) There is . created the Alaska Toll Bridge Authority composed of the governor the commissioner of the Department of Highways, the commissioner of the Dep~rtment of Administr~tiofi, the commissioner of the I)epartment of Public Works, and the commissioner of the Department of Revenue. The Ala.ska Toll Bridge Authority is a public corporation of.the state. The 112 • § 44.57 .020 • STA,TE GOVERNMENT § ·44.57.120 authority is an i'nstrumentality of the state within the Department of Highways, but has a legal existence independent of and separate from • • the state. If the office of a commissioner is 'discontinued or abolished l?y law, the governor shall appoint any person or officer of thE! state to fill the vacancy resulting from the abolition or discontinuance of the office. (b) All members of the authority shall serve without compensation, but. shall receive their necessary actual traveHng expense·s incurred in the discharge of their duties. (§ l ch 95 SLA 1967) Sec. 44.57;020. 'Majority rule. A majority of the members • of the authority may act for the authority. The authority shall esta.blish rules and regulations considered wise and lay down po}icies of procedure and generally supervise and control the operation of the functions vested in it by law and is clothed with all necessary powers to carry OIJ.t its functions. The authority shall appoint an executive secretary who serv_es at its· pleasure and who is the • chief administrative officer of the. authority. The authority shall act collectively with recorded resolutions or motions adopted by a majority of the authority at regular or special meetings, notice.of which meetings shall be given to all members under the rules of the, authority. Three members constitute a quorum .at any meeting, but no resolution, motion, or other decision of the authority may be adopted or passed y,rithout a favorable vote of at least three members. (§ 1 ch 95 SLA 1967) . , . Sec. 44.57.030. Authority may ,employ personnel. The authority may appoint· other officer_s, hire employees and agents, and engage professional and technical services and advice upon employment or independent contract basis. The autho:rity shall prescribe the_ duties and cornpensation of its personnel. (§ 1 ch 95 SLA 1967) Sec. 44.57 .040. Suits. The authority may sue and be sued in the name. of the Alaska Toll Bridge Authority. (§ 1 ch 95 SLA 1967) Article 2. Powers and Duties. Section l::!O. T<JII hri<lges '· liuthorized Investigations , 1:!0. General powers of the authority and · officials and .financial statements l~O. Construction of toll bridges J;j(); Authority to acquire righ_t of way in constructing a toll bridge Se~tion 160. Right of way • across state. land, streets, roads and compensat10n 170. Resolution of necessity in acquiring right of way and effect 180. Revenues and application 190. Coop!!rative funds Sec. 44.57.120; Toll bridges authorized -Investigations. The • Alaska Toll Bridge Authority is empowered, in accordance with the provisions . of this chapter, to provide . for the establishing and constructing of toll bridges upon any public highways. of this state· together with. approaches w}lerever the toll bridge is c.onsi4ered 113 813 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 Responses to Board Questions from October 25, 2023 meeting: 1. Board member asked about energy losses with the HVDC. From end to end energy losses should be on the order of half of what a HVAC system. With existing transmission during times of low transmission from Bradley Lake losses are a couple of percent. During times of high transmission usage losses may approach 20%. Addition of Dixon Diversion or other projects will substantially increase transmission usage. AEA Infrastructure Funding OpportunitiesStatus GOFederal Receipt Authority Grant Program Name AK Funding Award / Request Match CommentsAwarded Defense Community Infrastructure Pilot - National Defense Authorization Act $ 12,602,648 0%AEA lead applicant partnered with GVEA. Black Rapids Training Site. Requesting additional $3M in federal receipt authority in FY24 supplemental budget for a total of $15.6M.Awarded Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant - IIJA 40552b $ 1,627,450 0%Funding award notice received 9/27/23 with an effective date of 10/1/23.Awarded National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI) FFY 22-24 - IIJA 11401 $ 30,086,630 20%AEA partnered with DOT. AEA received federal receipt authority for FFY22, DOT will receive funding for all other years. Total funding expected $52M. FFY24 funds apportionment effective October 2023, $11.2M for AK.AwardedPreventing Outages and Enhancing the Resilience of the Electric Grid, Formula Grants to States and Indian Tribes FFY 2022-2023 - IIJA 40101d $ 29,621,046 15%Additional formula funding of $36M expected over the next 3 years, listed as conditional award on this table. AEA has receipt authority for $24.2M federal award and $5.4M match.Awarded State Energy Program Funding - IIJA 40109 $ 3,661,930 0% AEA applicant. Funding split 70% AEA and 30% AHFC. Awarded Vehicle Technology Office FFY 2022 $ 1,670,000 20%For the deployment of EV Charging infrastructure. Required match to come from subaward recipients. $ 79,269,704 Conditional Award Defense Community Infrastructure Pilot - National Defense Authorization Act $ 3,000,000 0%AEA lead applicant partnered with GVEA. Black Rapids Training Site. Requesting additional $3M in federal receipt authority in FY24 supplemental budget for a total of $15.6M.Conditional Award Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Capitalization Program - IIJA 40502 $ 4,782,480 0%Received notice of an increase in the amount of formula funding on 10/27. AEA resubmitting application 11/1/23. Requesting additional $240k in federal receipt authority in FY24 supplemental budget. AEA and AHFC are partners. Conditional Award Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 3 - IIJA 40103b $ 206,500,000 100%AEA notified by DOE for negotiation of financial assistance award in the amount of $206.5M on 10/3/2023. Conditional Award - Match Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 3 - IIJA 40103b $ 206,500,000 100%100% match of $206.5M is required for the GRIP 3 grant, funding source is unkown.Conditional Award Home Efficiency Rebates (formula funding) - IRA 50121 $ 37,368,480 0%AEA applicant as State Energy Office. AHFC administer the program. Application due 1/31/25.Conditional Award Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (formula funding) - IRA 50122 $ 37,150,940 0%AEA applicant as State Energy Office. AHFC administer the program. Application due 1/31/25.Conditional Award National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI) FFY 25-26 - IIJA 11401 $ 22,328,390 20%Program is formula funding that AEA/DOT will apply for as the allocation for each fiscal year is released. Conditional AwardPreventing Outages and Enhancing the Resilience of the Electric Grid, Formula Grants to States and Indian Tribes FFY 2024-2026 - IIJA 40101d (formula funding) $ 36,331,569 15%Program is formula funding that AEA will apply for as the allocation for each fiscal year is released. AEA needs receipt authority for remaining match of $3.6M.Subtotal Awarded Page 1 of 2 AEA Infrastructure Funding OpportunitiesStatus GOFederal Receipt Authority Grant Program Name AK Funding Award / Request Match CommentsConditional AwardTraining for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC) (formula funding) - IRA 50123 (Previously known as Energy Auditor Contractor Training Program) $ 1,293,870 0%AEA applicant as State Energy Office. AHFC administer the program. Application deadline 1/31/24. $ 555,255,729 Pending Charging and Fueling Infrastructure - IIJA 11401 $ 12,000,000 20%DOT lead applicant, AEA is a partner. Application submitted June 12, 2023Pending Energy Future Grant $ 496,725 0%Application submitted. AEA to partner with AML to evaluate energy permitting in 45 municipalities.Pending Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund - Solar For All Competition - IRA 134a $ 100,000,000 0% AEA/AHFC partners. Application Submitted 10/11/2023.Pending High Energy Cost Grants - USDA RUS $ 3,000,000 0% AEA submitted application for project in Manokotak. Pending Wood Innovations Grant Program FFY 2024 - IRA 23002 $ 500,000 100%AEA looking at doing an application for biomass. Applications due 12/15/23. $ 115,996,725 Considering Clean Heavy Duty Vehicles - IRA 60101 NA TBD Funding opportunity not issued at this time.Considering Clean Ports Program - IRA 60102 NA TBD Funding opportunity not issued at this time.Considering Climate Pollution Reduction Grants Competition $4.3 Billion - IRA 60114 NA TBDFunding available to implement measures contained in a Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP). DEC was applicant for PCAP grant. NOI due 2/1/24, application due 4/1/24.Considering Energy Improvements in Remote and Rural Areas FY24-FY26 - IIJA 40103c NA TBD Funding for FY 2024 - 2026 not open at this time.Considering Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 1 - IIJA 40101c NA 100%FFY 2024 - 2025 opportunity. Concept paper due 1/12/24. Application due 4/17/24. 1/3 required match for small utilities.Considering Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 2 - IIJA 40107 NA 100%FFY 2024 - 2025 opportunity. Concept paper due 1/12/24. Application due 4/17/24.Considering Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 3 - IIJA 40103b NA 100%FFY 2024 - 2025 opportunity. Concept paper due 1/12/24. Application due 5/22/24.Considering Strategies to Increase Hydropower Flexibility NA 20-100% Concept papers due 1/18/24. Application deadline 4/11/24.Considering Transmission Siting & Economic Development Grants Program - IRA 50152 NA 5-100%Concept papers due 11/17/23. Application deadline 4/5/24. AEA and AML submitting a concept paper as partners for economic development. NA Subtotal Conditional Award Subtotal PendingSubtotal ConsideringPage 2 of 2 AEA Infrastructure Funding OpportunitiesStatus GOFederal Receipt Authority Grant Program Name AK Funding Award / Request Match CommentsAwarded Defense Community Infrastructure Pilot - National Defense Authorization Act $ 12,602,648 0%AEA lead applicant partnered with GVEA. Black Rapids Training Site. Requesting additional $3M in federal receipt authority in FY24 supplemental budget for a total of $15.6M.Awarded Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant - IIJA 40552b $ 1,627,450 0%Funding award notice received 9/27/23 with an effective date of 10/1/23.Awarded National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI) FFY 22-24 - IIJA 11401 $ 30,086,630 20%AEA partnered with DOT. AEA received federal receipt authority for FFY22, DOT will receive funding for all other years. Total funding expected $52M. FFY24 funds apportionment effective October 2023, $11.2M for AK.AwardedPreventing Outages and Enhancing the Resilience of the Electric Grid, Formula Grants to States and Indian Tribes FFY 2022-2023 - IIJA 40101d $ 29,621,046 15%Additional formula funding of $36M expected over the next 3 years, listed as conditional award on this table. AEA has receipt authority for $24.2M federal award and $5.4M match.Awarded State Energy Program Funding - IIJA 40109 $ 3,661,930 0% AEA applicant. Funding split 70% AEA and 30% AHFC. Awarded Vehicle Technology Office FFY 2022 $ 1,670,000 20%For the deployment of EV Charging infrastructure. Required match to come from subaward recipients. $ 79,269,704 Conditional Award Defense Community Infrastructure Pilot - National Defense Authorization Act $ 3,000,000 0%AEA lead applicant partnered with GVEA. Black Rapids Training Site. Requesting additional $3M in federal receipt authority in FY24 supplemental budget for a total of $15.6M.Conditional Award Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Capitalization Program - IIJA 40502 $ 4,782,480 0%Received notice of an increase in the amount of formula funding on 10/27. AEA resubmitting application 11/1/23. Requesting additional $240k in federal receipt authority in FY24 supplemental budget. AEA and AHFC are partners. Conditional Award Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 3 - IIJA 40103b $ 206,500,000 100%AEA notified by DOE for negotiation of financial assistance award in the amount of $206.5M on 10/3/2023. Conditional Award - Match Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 3 - IIJA 40103b $ 206,500,000 100%100% match of $206.5M is required for the GRIP 3 grant, funding source is unkown.Conditional Award Home Efficiency Rebates (formula funding) - IRA 50121 $ 37,368,480 0%AEA applicant as State Energy Office. AHFC administer the program. Application due 1/31/25.Conditional Award Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (formula funding) - IRA 50122 $ 37,150,940 0%AEA applicant as State Energy Office. AHFC administer the program. Application due 1/31/25.Conditional Award National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI) FFY 25-26 - IIJA 11401 $ 22,328,390 20%Program is formula funding that AEA/DOT will apply for as the allocation for each fiscal year is released. Conditional AwardPreventing Outages and Enhancing the Resilience of the Electric Grid, Formula Grants to States and Indian Tribes FFY 2024-2026 - IIJA 40101d (formula funding) $ 36,331,569 15%Program is formula funding that AEA will apply for as the allocation for each fiscal year is released. AEA needs receipt authority for remaining match of $3.6M.Subtotal Awarded Page 1 of 2 AEA Infrastructure Funding OpportunitiesStatus GOFederal Receipt Authority Grant Program Name AK Funding Award / Request Match CommentsConditional AwardTraining for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC) (formula funding) - IRA 50123 (Previously known as Energy Auditor Contractor Training Program) $ 1,293,870 0%AEA applicant as State Energy Office. AHFC administer the program. Application deadline 1/31/24. $ 555,255,729 Pending Charging and Fueling Infrastructure - IIJA 11401 $ 12,000,000 20%DOT lead applicant, AEA is a partner. Application submitted June 12, 2023Pending Energy Future Grant $ 496,725 0%Application submitted. AEA to partner with AML to evaluate energy permitting in 45 municipalities.Pending Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund - Solar For All Competition - IRA 134a $ 100,000,000 0% AEA/AHFC partners. Application Submitted 10/11/2023.Pending High Energy Cost Grants - USDA RUS $ 3,000,000 0% AEA submitted application for project in Manokotak. Pending Wood Innovations Grant Program FFY 2024 - IRA 23002 $ 500,000 100%AEA looking at doing an application for biomass. Applications due 12/15/23. $ 115,996,725 Considering Clean Heavy Duty Vehicles - IRA 60101 NA TBD Funding opportunity not issued at this time.Considering Clean Ports Program - IRA 60102 NA TBD Funding opportunity not issued at this time.Considering Climate Pollution Reduction Grants Competition $4.3 Billion - IRA 60114 NA TBDFunding available to implement measures contained in a Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP). DEC was applicant for PCAP grant. NOI due 2/1/24, application due 4/1/24.Considering Energy Improvements in Remote and Rural Areas FY24-FY26 - IIJA 40103c NA TBD Funding for FY 2024 - 2026 not open at this time.Considering Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 1 - IIJA 40101c NA 100%FFY 2024 - 2025 opportunity. Concept paper due 1/12/24. Application due 4/17/24. 1/3 required match for small utilities.Considering Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 2 - IIJA 40107 NA 100%FFY 2024 - 2025 opportunity. Concept paper due 1/12/24. Application due 4/17/24.Considering Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program Topic 3 - IIJA 40103b NA 100%FFY 2024 - 2025 opportunity. Concept paper due 1/12/24. Application due 5/22/24.Considering Strategies to Increase Hydropower Flexibility NA 20-100% Concept papers due 1/18/24. Application deadline 4/11/24.Considering Transmission Siting & Economic Development Grants Program - IRA 50152 NA 5-100%Concept papers due 11/17/23. Application deadline 4/5/24. AEA and AML submitting a concept paper as partners for economic development. NA Subtotal Conditional Award Subtotal PendingSubtotal ConsideringPage 2 of 2 DATE DESCRIPTION TOPIC AND AUDIENCE IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL TEAM MEMBER November 15, 2023 Presenter Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Alaska's Electric Vehicles Program In Person Josi Hartley November 9, 2023 Newsletter Alaska Electric Vehicle Working Group (AKEVWG) November Newsletter Sent to 270 Recipients Email Brandy M. Dixon November 9, 2023 Media Inquiry Media Inquiry: Inflation Reduction Act Home Rebate Programs, Madeleine Ngo, The New York Times Email Brandy M. Dixon November 9, 2023 Attendee Utility Working Group Comms Monthly Check-In Virtual Brandy M. Dixon November 7, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer November 7, 2023 Media Interview Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership Program Award, James Brooks, Alaska Beacon Phone Curtis W. Thayer October 31, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer October 30, 2023 Media Inquiry Renewable Energy in Alaska, Jim Carlton, The Wall Street Journal Phone Brandy M. Dixon October 26, 2023 Host AKEVWG Technical Session: Site Host Selection, Schedule and Path Forward In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley October 26, 2023 Media Inquiry Alaska Energy Security Task Force Report Public Testimony, Tim Ellis, KUAC Fairbanks Email Brandy M. Dixon October 23, 2023 Media Inquiry GRIP 1 and 2 Applications Status, Alan Bailey, Petroleum News Email Brandy M. Dixon October 19-20, 2023 Host Power Cost Equalization Walk-In Information Session at the 2023 Alaska Federation of Natives Convention William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center, Anchorage, AK Katherine Aubrey October 16, 2023 Media Inquiry Alaska National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan, Tim Bradner, Frontiersman Email Brandy M. Dixon October 16-19, 2023 Attendee 2023 National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) Annual Meeting Hilton Portland Downtown, Portland, OR Curtis W. Thayer October 16, 2023 Media Inquiry Alaska NEVI Plan, Tim Bradner, Frontiersman Email Brandy M. Dixon October 16, 2023 Newsletter AKEVWG October Newsletter Sent to 266 Recipients Email Brandy M. Dixon October 16, 2023 Media Inquiry Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program, Jenny Willoughby, KTNA Email Brandy M. Dixon October 13, 2023 Media Interview Village Energy Efficiency Program, Haley Lehman, Fairbanks Daily News-Miner Phone Curtis W. Thayer October 10, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer October 5, 2023 Presenter AEA Infrastructure Update Presentation to Alaska Bankers Association Wells Fargo, Anchorage, AK Curtis W. Thayer October 3-5, 2023 Attendee/Host Alaska-Canada Wood Energy Conference Pipeline Training Center, Fairbanks, AK Sean Arcilla October 3, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting In-Person/Virtual Curtis W. Thayer AEA COMMUNITY OUTREACH Last Updated on November 22, 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 October 3, 2023 Attendee Atlantic Council: The Frontiers Project Meeting Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center, Anchorage, AK Audrey Alstrom, Jim Mendenhall, Curtis W. Thayer September 29, 2023 Co-Host/Attendee Chugach Drive Electric Anchorage Museum, Anchorage, AK Josi Hartley September 28, 2023 Presenter Alaska's Electric Vehicles (EV) Program to Society of American Military Engineers BP Energy Center, Anchorage, AK Josi Hartley September 27, 2023 Panelist Alaska Chamber Fall Forum Hilton Anchorage, Anchorage AK Curtis W. Thayer September 27, 2023 Presenter AEA Overview and Task Force Update Presentation to EPA Region 10 U.S. Courthouse and Federal Building, Anchorage, AK Curtis W. Thayer September 26, 2023 Exhibitor Alaska Grant Symposium (Expo -Style) hosted by Alaska’s Congressional Delegation Hotel Captain Cook, Anchorage, AK Karen Bell, Conner Erickson, Quinlan Harris, Jim Mendenhall, Dawn Molina, Ashley Streveler, Wendy Sturdivant September 25 and 27, 2023 Presenter/Speaker Alaska Infrastructure Development Symposium Hotel Captain Cook, Anchorage, AK Bryan Carey, Josi Hartley, Curtis W. Thayer September 21-22. 2023 Attendee NASEO-NARUC-NGA-NASUCA Western Regional Roundtable: Equity Considerations in Electricity Planning and Policy Denver, CO Audrey Alstrom September 19, 2023 Host Alaska Energy Security Task Force Meeting AEA Office (In-Person/Virtual) Anchorage AK Curtis W. Thayer September 14, 2023 Newsletter AKEVWG September Newsletter Sent to 232 Recipients Email Brandy M. Dixon September 13, 2023 Attendee Clean Transportation Leadership Roundtable The Lakefront Anchorage, Anchorage, AK Josi Hartley September 13, 2023 Host/Moderator/Speaker National Hydropower Association Alaska Regional Meeting Hotel Captain Cook, Anchorage, AK Audrey Alstrom, Karen Bell, Bryan Carey, Curtis W. Thayer September 7-8, 2023 Attendee/Speaker/Sponsor Alaska Wind Workshop, Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center, Anchorage, AK In-Person Sean Arcilla, Karen Bell, Quinlan Harris, Josi Hartley, Yosty Storms September 7, 2023 Media Inquiry Alaska NEVI Awards, Madeleine Ngo, New York Email Brandy M. Dixon September 7, 2023 Host Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy and Resilience Workshop AEA Office (In-Person/Virtual) Anchorage AK Audrey Alstrom, Karen Bell, Josi Hartley, Ashley Streveler 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 Houston Solar Farm Site Houston, AK 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 AEA Community Outreach Page 2 of 4 DATE DESCRIPTION TOPIC AND AUDIENCE IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL TEAM MEMBER 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 10, 2023 Newsletter AKEVWG August Newsletter Sent to 236 Recipients Email Brandy M. Dixon 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 July 14, 2023 Media Inquiry Special Section on Rural Energy, Tim Bradner, Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman Email Brandy M. Dixon July 13, 2023 Newsletter AKEVWG July Newsletter Sent to 235 Recipients 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 Fairbanks Workshop In-Person/Virtual Josi Hartley 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 AEA Community Outreach Page 3 of 4 DATE DESCRIPTION TOPIC AND AUDIENCE IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL TEAM MEMBER 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 8, 2023 Newsletter AKEVWG June Newsletter Sent to 240 Recipients Email 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 Civic and Convention 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 Civic and Convention 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 4 of 4 Alaska gets $200M from feds for Railbelt energy project, Cook Inlet undersea cable https://alaskapublic.org/2023/11/15/alaska-gets-200m-from-feds-for-railbelt-energy-project-cook-inlet-undersea-cable/ 1/3 Alaska gets $200M from feds for Railbelt energy project, Cook Inlet undersea cable By Riley Board, KDLL - Soldotna - November 15, 2023 The view across Cook Inlet from Nikiski. (Riley Board/KDLL) Alaska gets $200M from feds for Railbelt energy project, Cook Inlet undersea cable https://alaskapublic.org/2023/11/15/alaska-gets-200m-from-feds-for-railbelt-energy-project-cook-inlet-undersea-cable/ 2/3 A massive $206 million federal grant will fund a project to run a 50-mile undersea cable through Cook Inlet, to better connect Railbelt utilities and improve access to renewable sources. KDLL’s Riley Board talked with reporter James Brooks from the Alaska Beacon about the project, and the flexibility it could create for energy security on the Kenai Peninsula and beyond. Riley Board: Can you start by just giving me the lowdown on this grant and the project that it will fund? James Brooks: So this was part of …this was one of several grants issued as part of the big congressional infrastructure bill that passed a couple of years ago. It was a competitive grant, and so it was kind of a surprise, a pleasant one, for the Alaska Energy Authority to get this. The request was the fifth- highest among the hundreds of grant applications that were submitted. And Curtis Thayer, the head of the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA), told me he was kind of in the position of the dog that caught the car. They weren’t expecting to get this, but pleasantly surprised that they did. RB: And can you tell me a little bit about the cable and the project that they proposed? JB: Yeah, what AEA and utilities have been working on, is a way to improve the flow of electricity up and down the Railbelt. Right now, from Homer to Fairbanks, instead of an electrical grid, we’ve got really what — as the head of the Golden Valley Electric Association, John Burns called it — is basically a string of extension cords. There’s no alternate routes, if you want to …if you need to get electricity from one place to another and can’t, from the main route. So what this will do, this will pay for a 50-mile undersea power cable from the Kenai Peninsula over to Beluga on the west side of Cook Inlet. And so in the case of another Swan Lake fire, for example, you’d have another way to transmit power north and south, and get around that. And in addition, it’ll also help pay for two battery banks, which will help deal with the ebb and flow of renewable power. So if the wind dies down, or the sun goes behind clouds, and your solar plants don’t work as well, these battery banks will kick in, take up the slack, and utilities will be able to either wait out the clouds or wind, or spin up fossil fuel-fired generators, diesel generators, or natural gas generators to cover what they’ve lost. RB: So I know here on the peninsula, in terms of our utilities, we’re getting a pretty small fraction of our power from renewables at this Alaska gets $200M from feds for Railbelt energy project, Cook Inlet undersea cable https://alaskapublic.org/2023/11/15/alaska-gets-200m-from-feds-for-railbelt-energy-project-cook-inlet-undersea-cable/ 3/3 point. Is this project sort of being built in anticipation of a future with more renewables and more of those less less reliable sources? The more fickle sources of power? JB: Yeah, exactly. And the idea is flexibility. That if you need, or if you’re able to get cheaper power from a wind plant, or a solar plant, you can switch to that quickly. Or if there’s a wildfire, and you need to switch to a new power line, you can do that, too. So flexibility is the bottom line here. RB: And on that subject, as, as we all know, there’s a projected Cook Inlet natural gas shortage that has utilities and lawmakers sort of scrambling, and Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced a plan last month to reduce the royalty rate to encourage development in the inlet. How does a project like this fit into the broader Railbelt energy future that gets a lot of discussion these days? JB: So if there’s a shortage of natural gas, then you need to come up with alternate ways to generate electricity, generate heat. If you’re putting up new solar and wind plants, or expanding Bradley Lake, for example, then you can reserve your natural gas for heating instead of electrical generation. So that reduces the demand for natural gas. That’s a couple steps down the line. But this power line, the battery banks that this grant funds, allows that to happen. RB: Is there anything about this that we didn’t touch on that you would want to mention? JB: Maybe it’s that we shouldn’t expect this to happen immediately. There’s an eight-year timeframe for this to happen, and a lot of steps along the way. There’s no place in the United States that we know of that manufactures this type of electric cable, this is not something you can just buy off the shelf. And you have to hire special ships to lay this cable and ensure that it’s protected from the tides, and the erosion that can happen from tides. So it’s gonna be a slow process, but it’s one that the utilities and everybody involved say is a good idea, and something that’s needed for Alaska. Read James’ original reporting here. 11/21/23, 12:57 PM Huge new federal grant promises easier access for cheaper, cleaner power in Alaska’s Railbelt - Alaska Beacon https://alaskabeacon.com/2023/11/10/huge-new-federal-grant-promises-easier-access-for-cheaper-cleaner-power-in-alaskas-railbelt/1/6 ECONOMY & ENVIRONMENT GOVERNMENT & POLITICS Huge new federal grant promises easier access for cheaper, cleaner power in Alaska’s Railbelt The $206 million from the Department of Energy would pay for a 50-mile power line beneath Cook Inlet, plus two battery banks BY: JAMES BROOKS - NOVEMBER 10, 2023 5:30 AM        Homes and oce buildings are seen from Westchester Lagoon in Anchorage on May 6, 2020. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) When wildres ripped across the Kenai Peninsula in 2019, among the burned homes and businesses was a key power line that supplied cheap hydroelectricity to Anchorage.  After that line was destroyed, even people untouched by the re still felt the burn. Anchorage residents paid more than $10 million extra  11/21/23, 12:57 PM Huge new federal grant promises easier access for cheaper, cleaner power in Alaska’s Railbelt - Alaska Beacon https://alaskabeacon.com/2023/11/10/huge-new-federal-grant-promises-easier-access-for-cheaper-cleaner-power-in-alaskas-railbelt/2/6 on their power bills. Last month, the Alaska Energy Authority won a $206 million federal grant that may keep the same thing from happening again and incidentally help electric utilities along the Railbelt replace expensive fossil-fuel generators with clean, renewable energy.  “This is a once in a lifetime event for this kind of funding,” said Curtis Thayer, the authority’s director, by phone. The grant, provided by the U.S. Department of Energy as part of Congress’ bipartisan infrastructure law, will allow the Alaska Energy Authority to install a 50-mile undersea power cable between the Kenai Peninsula and Chugach Electric’s power plant at Beluga, on the west side of Cook Inlet. AEA will also build two new battery banks — one in Southcentral Alaska and another in Fairbanks — to manage the ebb and ow of wind and solar power. These projects aren’t cheap, and the federal grant comes with a catch: The state of Alaska has to match it, dollar for dollar.  That likely means Gov. Mike Dunleavy and state legislators will be asked next spring to approve another $206 million to build this new power infrastructure. It’s a big ask: Five years ago, AEA’s budget for capital projects was only $10 million, Thayer said. But if the governor and Legislature agree to spend the money, they’ll be buying a big upgrade to Alaska’s largest electrical grid.  “HVDC lines are a proven technology, but this project will be the rst of its kind in Alaska and a signicant advancement for the Railbelt,” said Arthur Miller, CEO of Chugach Electric. Looking down from the sky 40,000 feet above Alaska, the Railbelt’s electrical grid doesn’t look like a grid at all — it’s a single line, stretching from Homer to Fairbanks.  “It’s not a grid. It’s no dierent from a series of extension cords that are plugged in from Homer and Southcentral all the way to Fairbanks,” said John Burns, president and CEO of Golden Valley Electric Association in Fairbanks. When new power plants are built, such as the large new solar power plant near Houston, their usefulness is limited by their ability to 11/21/23, 12:57 PM Huge new federal grant promises easier access for cheaper, cleaner power in Alaska’s Railbelt - Alaska Beacon https://alaskabeacon.com/2023/11/10/huge-new-federal-grant-promises-easier-access-for-cheaper-cleaner-power-in-alaskas-railbelt/3/6 ship power to other places. Fairbanks, for example, has some of the highest electricity prices on the Railbelt and could buy cheaper power from hydroelectric, wind and solar power plants farther south, but its ability to do so is limited by the capacity of the high-voltage power lines between it and the power plant. “Without transmission, you can’t transport electrons. Just like you need a highway to transport goods, transmission is no dierent,” Burns said. Anchorage experiences similar problems. If a giant new solar farm is built on the Kenai Peninsula, Chugach Electric would need the ability to get power from that facility. The high-voltage DC power line planned for this project is particularly suited for “intermittent renewable resources,” Miller said, and adding a second route for electricity between Anchorage and the Kenai means there’s more exibility if something goes wrong with the usual route. Adding two battery banks also helps utilities deal with uctuations in wind and solar energy.  When the wind abruptly dies down or clouds obscure the sun, utilities need to be able to spin up other generators to deal with demand.  The preferred source is cheap hydroelectricity, but dams can’t react instantly. Here, that means utilities keep fast-reacting fossil-fueled generators spinning as a stopgap measure.  Battery banks, like the ones planned by AEA, ensure utilities won’t have to do that as often, saving them fuel costs and reducing air pollution. In the Lower 48, battery storage has been deemed the “backbone” of a reliable electric grid. Burns, talking from Fairbanks, was enthusiastic about what’s coming to the state. “I do not know of a time … when the opportunity for transformative change of a positive nature is so readily apparent and available,” he said. A new power line — particularly one underwater — isn’t as visible as a new power plant, but it’s as crucial to the state’s future, he said. 11/21/23, 12:57 PM Huge new federal grant promises easier access for cheaper, cleaner power in Alaska’s Railbelt - Alaska Beacon https://alaskabeacon.com/2023/11/10/huge-new-federal-grant-promises-easier-access-for-cheaper-cleaner-power-in-alaskas-railbelt/4/6 “It’s not sexy, but it’s completely necessary,” he said. “It’s also large dollars.” The cost of the project is likely to be the rst hurdle. Thayer and AEA have requested that Gov. Mike Dunleavy include the $206 million needed from the state in the governor’s draft budget, expected in December. The governor’s oce declined to say whether the request will be included. The state’s match could potentially be paid across several years — meaning that a lump sum won’t be needed in the spring — or the state could include the money in a statewide general-obligation infrastructure bond that’s under discussion by the Dunleavy administration. The federal government could also consider some money already spent by AEA — which borrowed millions last year for energy upgrades — as part of the match, but that’s not certain. AEA also faces other hurdles: Under the terms of the grant, the state has eight years to complete the project, and it must use American-made products. That could be a problem because — so far, at least — AEA sta haven’t found anyone in the country who manufactures the type of high-voltage underwater cable that’s needed. Thayer is condent that AEA will be able to nd a manufacturer or get a waiver, and while the eight-year timeline is “tight,” he told members of AEA’s board at a recent meeting, he believes it’s doable. Burns, in Fairbanks, said he hopes that as large as this project is, it will be just the rst step. Other parts of the state’s electrical transmission system need to be upgraded in order for cheap power to reach any place along the Railbelt, and he hopes state ocials are willing to step up. “We have a chance in Alaska to really take advantage, but it’s going to take state participation and then investing on a go-forward basis. Ideally, you get a robust, secure, reliable, open-access system,” he said. 11/21/23, 2:11 PM In this issue: FHWA Approves FY24 Alaska NEVI Plan, NACS Update, and Local EV News https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=bccf1e2ace 1/5 View this email in your browser Alaska Electric Vehicle Working Group Newsletter, November 9, 2023 FHWA Approves Alaska's NEVI Plan We're thrilled to share that the second annual Alaska National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan by the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) and the Alaska 11/21/23, 2:11 PM In this issue: FHWA Approves FY24 Alaska NEVI Plan, NACS Update, and Local EV News https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=bccf1e2ace 2/5 Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) has been approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). With the approval of the updated plan, an additional $11 million will be available for the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout the state. This funding is in addition to the $19 million already allocated for fiscal years 2022 and 2023. Read the full press release here. NACS Update We last updated you on the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) in July and there has been more movement since then! As a refresher, NACS is Tesla’s charging port that they made open source in November 2022. Prior to that, the design was proprietary and used only at Tesla’s Supercharger Sites. Ford was the first major auto manufacturer to announce that they would be adopting NACS as their future charging port. Since then, several other manufacturers have also announced that they will be leaving behind their old charging ports (typically the Combined Charging System, CCS) in favor of NACS. While auto manufacturers have been shifting to NACS, the Society of Automotive Engineers has been working to fast-track the standardization of NACS. 11/21/23, 2:11 PM In this issue: FHWA Approves FY24 Alaska NEVI Plan, NACS Update, and Local EV News https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=bccf1e2ace 3/5 Currently, the following vehicle manufacturers have confirmed their switch to NACS: Aptera BMW/Mini/Rolls-Royce Fisker Ford General Motors Genesis Honda Hyundai/Kia Jaguar Lucid Mercedes-Benz Nissan Polestar/Volvo Rivian Subaru Toyota Local EV Happenings The Juneau Electric Vehicle Association (JEVA) recently held its 10th annual EV Round-Up and Car Show as part of the National Drive Electric Week. We caught up with Duff Mitchell, one of the event co-organizers, to get the inside scoop. Mitchell has been with JEVA since its inception and has helped organize the 11/21/23, 2:11 PM In this issue: FHWA Approves FY24 Alaska NEVI Plan, NACS Update, and Local EV News https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=bccf1e2ace 4/5 local EV round-up for 10 years. He has a passion for EVs and was one of the first to have an EV in Juneau years ago when he purchased a Nissan Leaf. In 2013, the first year Juneau hosted their EV round-up, 15 EVs showed up. This year, Mitchell said over 100 vehicles trickled in and out throughout the event. One of Juneau’s original Nissan Leafs turned up. The 2013 model with over 126,000 miles showed off its battery which had only lost one bar (out of 12) during its long life and many recharges. Mitchell says this type of battery longevity can be attributed to Juneau being in what he calls “the Goldilocks zone” for batteries — an environment that is not too hot, not too cold, but just right. It wasn’t only cars that attended the round-up. There were also e-bikes, electric Honda dirt bikes, and electric outboard motors for boats, all available for purchase locally in Juneau. He points out that electric boat motors are great for fishing since they are nearly silent. As for how many people who showed up? Volunteers from the local IBEW cooked 150 hamburgers and 150 hot dogs, all gone by the end of the day. When asked if any EV haters or skeptics targeted the event, Mitchell said, “No, not really. Some people come with questions, but we just educate them.” He said that over the years, questions have become more focused and more sophisticated. People are interested in learning how an EV can fit into their lives here in Alaska. He pointed out that many people in Alaska don’t drive “Malibus and passenger cars, we drive trucks and SUVs,” so many questions concern horsepower, range, can it tow a boat, etc. Mitchell made sure to highlight the co-sponsors of the event, including the City and Borough of Juneau, Juneau Bike Doctor, Cycle Alaska, Renewable Juneau, Juneau Auto Mall, Affordable Auto Sales, Tongass Rain Electric Cruise, Alaska Electric Light & Power, Juneau Economic Development Council, KINY Radio Station, Juneau Hydropower, and the local IBEW 1547. In a further show of support for the event, the mayor’s office has issued a proclamation about the event for the past five years. This year's proclamation read, “I, Beth A. Weldon, Mayor of the City and Borough Assembly, do hereby proclaim September 22-October 1, 2023, as “National Drive Electric Week” in Juneau and call upon all residents of Alaska’s Capital City to join me in supporting the goals of National Drive Electric Week and the Juneau EV Round 11/21/23, 2:11 PM In this issue: FHWA Approves FY24 Alaska NEVI Plan, NACS Update, and Local EV News https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=bccf1e2ace 5/5 Up & Car Show on September 23 to continue Juneau’s demonstration as an electric transportation leading city in our nation.” Upcoming Events Postponed Due to Inclement Weather* Mat-Su Transportation Fair Thursday, November 9, 3- p.m. Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center 1001 S Clapp Street Wasilla, AK 99654 *Stay up to date here Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Alaska Alaska’s EV Program Presentation by Josi Hartley, AEA Wednesday, November 15, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. University of Alaska Anchorage Engineering & Industry Building, Conference Room 413 2900 Spirit Dr Anchorage, AK 99508 Register now here (virtual attendance available) Facebook LinkedIn Website Plan Approval Unlocks $11M for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations https://www.akbizmag.com/industry/energy/plan-approval-unlocks-11m-for-electric-vehicle-charging-stations/ 1/3 Plan Approval Unlocks $11M for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations NOV 8, 2023 | ENERGY, NEWS, TRANSPORATION SOUTHWORKSSTOCK | ENVATO The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approved the second National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program plan by the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) and the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities Plan Approval Unlocks $11M for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations https://www.akbizmag.com/industry/energy/plan-approval-unlocks-11m-for-electric-vehicle-charging-stations/ 2/3 (DOT&PF). The approved plan means Alaska is eligible for an additional $11 million for installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout the state. The funding is in addition to $19 million already allocated for fiscal years 2022 and 2023. Alaska Exceptions Granted The announcement of additional funding includes the approval of all discretionary exception requests. As a result, the plan that was open for public comment earlier this year, along with the sites selected as part of that plan, may be sufficient to build out Phase I, the corridor from Anchorage to Fairbanks, and will move the state closer to beginning Phase II. “This funding is critical to our goal of minimizing and eliminating existing barriers to electric transportation adoption in Alaska,” says AEA Executive Director Curtis Thayer. “Expanding Alaska’s charging network will give EV drivers peace of mind and confidence, knowing that convenient charging stations await them when traveling for work, recreation, and tourism.” “We’re taking a measured approach, with our private sector partners and AEA,” says DOT&PF Commissioner Ryan Anderson. “The next phase will be to expand the system—we’re starting in our most urban areas then moving outward along our highways and eventually to our multimodal system.” Phase I is focused on the build-out of NEVI-required stations along the designated electric Alternative Fuel Corridor (AFC) in Alaska, between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Stations built with NEVI formula funds must have at least four Combined Charging System (CCS) ports capable of 150 kW output each, for a combined station total power requirement of at least 600 kW. This means that at a minimum, four vehicles can charge at once. Some of the selected sites will have eight ports available for charging. Once Alaska’s AFC is fully built out and meets FHWA criteria—which could take up to two years—AEA and DOT&PF will use NEVI Formula program funds to begin the next step. Phase II will focus on connecting small urban areas, rural communities on the road system, Alaska’s road system to Canada, and coastal communities located on the Alaska Marine Highway System. Plan Approval Unlocks $11M for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations https://www.akbizmag.com/industry/energy/plan-approval-unlocks-11m-for-electric-vehicle-charging-stations/ 3/3 The NEVI program was created as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and provides dedicated federal funding to states to support the strategic deployment of EV Level 3 Direct Current Fast Charging infrastructure and establish an interconnected network for reliable charging, with an emphasis on locations near interstate highway exits. Alaska is expected to receive $52 million over five years, but must annually submit updated plans to the FHWA on how it will spend the money. Alaska’s NEVI Plan was developed by AEA and DOT&PF in collaboration with EV stakeholders, utilities, communities, and residents. Check out the updated Alaska EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan here for more information. For future community engagement opportunities, please visit akenergyauthority.org/evs. PRESS RELEASE Brandy M. Dixon Communications Director (907) 771-3078 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 7, 2023 AEA and DOT&PF Receive FHWA Approval for FY24 Alaska NEVI Plan The announcement unlocks an additional $11 million for fiscal year 2024 in Alaska (Anchorage) — The second annual Alaska National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan by the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) and the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) has been approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). With the approval of the updated plan, an additional $11 million will be available for the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout the state. This funding is in addition to the $19 million already allocated for fiscal years 2022 and 2023. The announcement of additional funding includes the approval of all discretionary exception requests. As a result, the solicitation that was conducted earlier this year, along with the sites selected during that solicitation, may be sufficient to build out Phase One, the corridor from Anchorage to Fairbanks, and will move us closer to beginning Phase Two. "This funding is critical to our goal of minimizing and eliminating existing barriers to electric transportation adoption in Alaska,” said AEA Executive Director Curtis W. Thayer. “Expanding Alaska’s charging network will give EV drivers peace of mind and confidence, knowing that convenient charging stations await them when traveling for work, recreation, and tourism.” “We’re taking a measured approach, with our private sector partners and AEA,” said DOT&PF Commissioner Ryan Anderson. “The next phase will be to expand the system — we’re starting in our most urban areas then moving outward along our highways and eventually to our multimodal system.” Phase One is focused on the build-out of NEVI-required stations along the designated electric Alternative Fuel Corridor (AFC) in Alaska, between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Stations built with NEVI formula funds must have at least four Combined Charging System (CCS) ports capable of 150 kilowatt (kW) output each, for a combined station total power requirement of at least 600 kW. This means at a minimum, four vehicles will be able to charge at once. Some of the selected sites will have eight ports available for charging. Once Alaska’s AFC is “fully built out” and meets FHWA criteria, which could take up to two years, AEA and DOT&PF will use NEVI Formula Program funds to install charging infrastructure along Alaska’s Highway (non-AFC) and the Alaska Marine Highway System. Phase Two will focus on connecting small urban areas, rural communities on the road system, Alaska’s road system to Canada, and coastal communities located on the Alaska Marine Highway System. The NEVI program was created as part of the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and provides dedicated federal funding to states to support the strategic deployment of EV Level 3 Direct Current Fast Charging infrastructure and establish an interconnected network for reliable charging, with an emphasis on locations near interstate highway exits. Alaska is expected to receive $52 million over five years, but must annually submit updated plans to the FHWA on how it will spend the money. Alaska’s NEVI Plan was developed by AEA and DOT&PF in collaboration with EV stakeholders, utilities, communities, and residents. Check out the updated Alaska EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan here for more information. For future community engagement opportunities, please visit akenergyauthority.org/evs. ### 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. About the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 33 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.” 11/21/23, 12:59 PM OPINION: Alaska has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock its energy potential - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/opinions/2023/11/01/opinion-alaska-has-a-once-in-a-generation-opportunity-to-unlock-its-energy-potential/1/7   Obituaries •Games •ADN Store •e-Edition •Sponsored Content • Promotions •Get our free newsletters ADVERTISEMENT Opinions OPINION: Alaska has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock its energy potential By Lesil McGuire, Charisse Millett, John Coghill and Bill Wielechowski Updated: November 2, 2023 Published: November 1, 2023 Power lines are highlighted by the setting sun along Turnagain Arm and the Seward Highway south of Anchorage on March 26, 2017. (Bob Hallinen photo) For decades, Alaskans have wished for more reliable, affordable and locally generated energy. The high cost of energy and our limited control over it has hampered our households and communities, making everything from subsistence activities to attracting businesses more difficult in our state. It has been exciting to see our governor’s emphasis on affordable clean energy and innovation, as well as the leadership at state agencies like Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) to pursue federal funds by bringing historic alignment amongst the Railbelt utilities. Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Energy announced a $206 million    Alaska News   •  Politics   •  Opinions   •  Talk to us Get our free newslettersSections 11/21/23, 12:59 PM OPINION: Alaska has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock its energy potential - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/opinions/2023/11/01/opinion-alaska-has-a-once-in-a-generation-opportunity-to-unlock-its-energy-potential/2/7 grant to AEA to strengthen and modernize Alaska’s Railbelt power grid — a testament to the power of this kind of coordinated effort and a critical step toward unlocking Alaska’s vast renewable energy resources. This monumental investment, secured through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), represents only the tip of the iceberg in terms of the extraordinary federal funding opportunities currently available for clean energy projects: funding that could bring low-cost, reliable energy to our homes and businesses, and drive a new era of jobs, growth and opportunity for Alaskans. There is a time-limited window in which to secure this funding. Many of the programs created by the BIL and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) expire within 5- 10 years. We must work together to seize this moment. Quick action on big projects is never easy: it requires a bold vision, shared commitment, and a clear plan. To ensure we don’t miss this opportunity, we are asking Alaskans to support and encourage our state, local, tribal, and federal leadership to work together toward these principles and goals: 1. Modernize our Railbelt electric grid by 2030 We need to upgrade our outdated Railbelt electric transmission infrastructure to deliver affordable and reliable energy for our homes and businesses. Energy cost savings will be shared with rural and remote communities through the Power Cost Equalization program. 2. Assert control over the price of local energy ADVERTISEMENT We must reduce Alaska’s exposure to the volatility of global energy markets. By developing locally generated clean power, we increase our energy security and our autonomy over the pricing dynamics of our energy resources. 3. Leverage federal incentives for clean energy projects 11/21/23, 12:59 PM OPINION: Alaska has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock its energy potential - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/opinions/2023/11/01/opinion-alaska-has-a-once-in-a-generation-opportunity-to-unlock-its-energy-potential/3/7 Federal incentives enable Alaska to pursue new clean power generation projects for as little as 20% of the actual cost. That’s effectively a limited-time 80% discount on energy generation projects that will stimulate new business, jobs and economic activity throughout Alaska. 4. Prioritize projects that can be built now The depletion of natural gas reserves in Cook Inlet necessitates swift and pragmatic action. Instead of debating megaprojects, our focus should be on developing known, low-risk projects that can be built within the next five years. 5. Strategic allocation of state resources for clean energy investments Maximizing Alaska’s share of federal funds for clean energy will require state investment and match funding. Now is the time for the state to commit to a comprehensive package of clean energy investments that will create a sustainable in-state energy system at a fraction of the cost of other solutions. 6. Secure Alaska’s position as an energy leader In a world increasingly shifting to clean energy, our ability to keep our families here in Alaska and to build and attract business depends on diversifying our energy offerings. By pursuing innovative utility-scale and export-scale renewable energy projects and carbon management technologies, we will not only create new jobs and stimulate growth, we will create the durable economic opportunities our families and communities need to thrive over the long term. In today’s social media-driven politics, it is always easy to criticize efforts as inadequate or policy development as too ponderous or to ascribe political motivations or find opportunities to vilify others. But we must not let a cynical view stymie our future. Given the time-limited opportunities our delegation worked to create, now is the time to unite to diversify and modernize Alaska’s energy base. Together, we can build on our legacy of energy leadership and ingenuity to create new wealth, new jobs and new momentum for the next generation of Alaskans. 11/21/23, 12:59 PM OPINION: Alaska has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock its energy potential - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/opinions/2023/11/01/opinion-alaska-has-a-once-in-a-generation-opportunity-to-unlock-its-energy-potential/4/7 The opportunity is ripe. It is time for new energy, Alaska — for our state and our future. Talk to your friends and neighbors, reach out to civic leaders, add your voice: The time is now to forge a path toward a future defined by sustainable, home-grown energy solutions. Lesil McGuire, Charisse Millett, John Coghill and Sen. Bill Wielechowski are part of New Energy Alaska, a coalition of Alaskans working to bring new infrastructure, energy security and clean, affordable power to all Alaskans. Lesil McGuire is a former Alaska state senator and former co-chair of the Senate Resources Committee. Charisse Millett is a former member of the Alaska House of Representatives and former chair of the House Energy Special Committee. John Coghill is a former Alaska state senator. He was Senate Majority Leader from 2013 to 2016. Sen. Bill Wielechowski is an Alaska state senator representing East Anchorage. He is a former co-chair of the Senate Resources Committee. The views expressed here are the writer’s and are not necessarily endorsed by the Anchorage Daily News, which welcomes a broad range of viewpoints. To submit a piece for consideration, email commentary(at)adn.com. Send submissions shorter than 200 words to letters@adn.com or click here to submit via any web browser. Read our full guidelines for letters and commentaries here. Sign up for our opinions newsletter Commentary, letters to the editor and more: Hear from different voices around Alaska in our free opinions newsletter, sent every Monday. Email* Type your email Sign Up 10/26/23, 2:28 PM Alaskans address issues with draft energy plan | Local News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/local_news/alaskans-address-issues-with-draft-energy-plan/article_072a3b24-7361-11ee-8cfb-935b247d0383.html…1/5 https://www.newsminer.com/news/local_news/alaskans-address-issues-with-draft-energy-plan/article_072a3b24- 7361-11ee-8cfb-935b247d0383.html Alaskans address issues with draft energy plan Jack Barnwell Oct 26, 2023 Dozens testified Tuesday night on a draft statewide energy plan during a virtual public comment session hosted by the state’s energy task force. The plan was commissioned by Gov. Mike Dunleavy with directions to find short- and long-term solutions to Alaska’s affordable energy needs. It includes several recommendations, policy changes and investment needs to bolster Alaska’s energy portfolio, from tidal projects to advanced Andrew Lesh photo, Fairbanks Andrew Lesh photo, Fairbanks Andrew Lesh photo, Fairbanks 1 of 2 10/26/23, 2:28 PM Alaskans address issues with draft energy plan | Local News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/local_news/alaskans-address-issues-with-draft-energy-plan/article_072a3b24-7361-11ee-8cfb-935b247d0383.html…2/5 micronuclear reactors. Dunleavy, when setting up the task force, asked them to envision an Alaska where electricity costs 10 cents a kilowatt hour. It places emphasis on the continued need for traditional energy sources such as oil and natural gas while stressing the need to adopt a long-term clean energy standard. The project notes that Railbelt natural gas needs will only increase over the next 20 years, including the utility Enstar, based in the Anchorage area. The report notes that several projects have potential, including the long-sought after liquified natural gas pipeline from the North Slope to Nikiski, an estimated $40 billion-plus project, the Dixon Diversion at Bradley Lake Hydroelectric Project and the proposed Susitna-Watana hydroelectric project. A fallback to the large 700 mile gas line would be a smaller in-state “bullet” line that would cost at least $8 billion. Both options are seen as economically important to convey North Slope natural gas resources to Southcentral Alaska, especially as Cook Inlet gas resources grow increasingly uncertain. A lack of renewables Several people testified Tuesday night that the project does little to invest in renewable energy projects. 10/26/23, 2:28 PM Alaskans address issues with draft energy plan | Local News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/local_news/alaskans-address-issues-with-draft-energy-plan/article_072a3b24-7361-11ee-8cfb-935b247d0383.html…3/5 Fairbanks resident Rebecca Siegel had concerns about the report’s heavy emphasis on the pipeline and that the state would see an increased use of fossil fuels when the long-term goal should be the opposite. “This lock-in is more than doubling down on use of fossil fuels and will absolutely divert Alaska from a diversified electricity portfolio at a time when we cannot afford to be distracted,” Siegel said. “An alternative sources analysis must come first and we cannot throw any more time or money away on a pipe dream.” Arleigh Hitchcock with Fairbanks Climate Action Coalition said the concept of a “green bank” had several merits but should be expanded on how it would operate. According to the draft’s appendixes, a green bank would be used to “finance energy efficiency projects at the community scale in partnership with the private sector.” The lead agencies would be the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation and Alaska Energy Authority, with initial state capitalization. Hitchcock added that the plan should include a renewable energy portfolio. “We should be diversifying our energy sources and the goal should be reducing costs for everyday Alaskans,” Hitchcock said. “I do not think the AK LNG pipeline has a place in this ... it does not reduce our costs.” According to the draft document’s action on a clean energy standard, the task force considered both a renewable portfolio and a clean energy standard. “Ultimately a Clean Energy Standard was preferred as it allows the widest range of generation technologies to compete driving affordability and gives Alaska the most options to diversify,” the draft states. Penalties on utility co-ops, the draft states, “would pass directly to co-op members and drive up electricity prices.” The clean energy standard action does propose to broaden the number of projects in the state’s Renewable Energy Fund and adjust whose funding is prioritized. 10/26/23, 2:28 PM Alaskans address issues with draft energy plan | Local News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/local_news/alaskans-address-issues-with-draft-energy-plan/article_072a3b24-7361-11ee-8cfb-935b247d0383.html…4/5 Hitchcock added there’s not enough detail in how the state should be shifting rural communities from diesel-powered energy sources, which places a high cost burden on villages who either need to barge or ship in their fuel supplies. Wants and needs Others, either industry investors or staunch supporters, blasted the federal government and environmental groups for jeopardizing any responsible transition line by curtailing Alaska natural gas and oil development. John Hendrix, owner of HEX, noted the need for natural gas. Hendrix bought Furie Operating Alaska’s Kitchen Lights Unit in the Cook Inlet in 2019 after Furie declared bankruptcy. Hendrix said he was hesitant to invest any more money into his projects when renewable projects and “all the federal money coming, everybody glad handing and having conferences on renewable is a threat to our jobs.” “It’s very difficult to invest money when everybody wants to transition away from gas,” Hendrix said. “Do I roll the dice if people in the federal government want to get rid of us?” Anchorage resident Kathy Andrews said the report was devoid of any cost analysis, something she said would be a major requirement if the goal was to achieve 10 cents per kilowatt hour. “This report is providing Alaska with energy cycling and costly control features such as adopting clean energy standards,” Andrews said. “It’s clear that no meaningful study was done.” She noted clean energy and carbon reduction were mentioned numerous times, adding no substantial proof exists to show an affordable way to manage carbon. Andrews lambasted the report for its lack of utilizing coal resources to the maximum benefit. “We have the coal, we need more coal plants,” Andrews said. Some utilities, such as Anchorage-based Chugach Electric Cooperative, the state’s largest utility, had concerns about key components that would advocate for conveying all existing Railbelt transmission assets and Bradley Lake to the Alaska Energy Authority or a third-party nonprofit utility. 10/26/23, 2:28 PM Alaskans address issues with draft energy plan | Local News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/local_news/alaskans-address-issues-with-draft-energy-plan/article_072a3b24-7361-11ee-8cfb-935b247d0383.html…5/5 jbarnwell Matt Clarkston, Chugach’s chief legal officer, said while the utility supports Dunleavy’s goal to secure safe, reliable and affordable energy resources, the acquisition of transmission lines under one authority would present legal challenges. Clarkston noted state law and the utility’s own bylaws require a supermajority approval by co-op members/ratepayers to approve any sale or transfer of its assets. “Even if that hurdle can be overcome, Chugach would not be in such a position for such a recommendation and would likely oppose any unprecedented state action to acquire private utility assets for such a purpose,” Clarkston said. He added the utility doesn’t believe ownership of Railbelt transmission lines under one banner isn’t necessary for a coordinated and unified grid. Clay Koplin, the task force co-vice chair, said most of the comments call for a stop on nearly every element of the task force. “If we did nothing that would not be a good thing for Alaska,” Koplin said. “We are invested in natural gas and made billions of dollars in investment as a stable power source … and speaks directly to the cost energy in the state.” A transition to renewable energy sources is called for, he added, but must be done responsibly. Others testified that the draft plan, now at 140 pages, contains too much information to be digested in a short period to provide any meaningful public feedback in person or virtually. The most recent draft, released on Friday, added an additional 12 pages after an initial Oct. 3 update. Written comment on the draft study will be accepted through Oct. 30. For more information, visit bit.ly/409AwEa. Contact reporter Jack Barnwell at 907-459-7587 or jbarnwell@newsminer.com. 10/27/23, 10:04 AM OPINION: Avoiding the Jenga effect as Alaska navigates toward sustainable energy - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/opinions/2023/10/25/opinion-avoiding-the-jenga-effect-as-alaska-navigates-toward-sustainable-energy/1   Obituaries •Games •ADN Store •e-Edition •Sponsored Content •Promotions •Get our free newsletters ADVERTISEMENT Opinions OPINION: Avoiding the Jenga effect as Alaska navigates toward sustainable energy By James Kaufman Updated: October 25, 2023 Published: October 25, 2023 Sen. James Kaufman, R-Anchorage, on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023 at the Alaska State Capitol in Juneau. (Loren Holmes / ADN) As we navigate Alaska’s path to a more sustainable energy future, I’m reminded of the delicate balance required in the game of Jenga. Much like a precarious Jenga tower, Alaska’s energy landscape calls for careful planning to ensure both progress and stability in our quest for a cleaner, more diversified and sustainable energy future. My deep dive into Alaska’s clean energy transition has taken me to a cumulative month’s worth of alternative energy conferences this year. Enthusiastic speakers passionately advocate for replacing carbon-producing energy sources with clean, sustainable alternatives. While I wholeheartedly endorse this endeavor, we must be cognizant of the potential pitfalls that    Alaska News  •  Politics  •  Opinions  •  Talk to us Get our free newslettersSections 10/27/23, 10:04 AM OPINION: Avoiding the Jenga effect as Alaska navigates toward sustainable energy - Anchorage Daily News https://www.adn.com/opinions/2023/10/25/opinion-avoiding-the-jenga-effect-as-alaska-navigates-toward-sustainable-energy/2/ could undermine our progress. We must pay attention to all aspects of energy provision: sources, generation, transmission and storage. Let me be clear: I am a strong proponent of increasing Alaska’s use of cleaner energy sources. Recent legislative victories underscore our commitment to this transition. A significant milestone is the passage of HB 62, a bill I had the privilege to work on alongside Rep. Bryce Edgmon. This legislation cements the Renewable Energy Fund’s permanence in Alaska, facilitating sustainable investments in cost-effective renewable alternatives and assisting communities across the state to reduce and stabilize their cost of energy. Affordable, clean, local energy alternatives and storage solutions are especially important in Alaska, where each region of the state faces unique challenges, and the reliance on costly diesel generators is still a pressing issue. The key lies in responsible change management. Hastening this transition without considering realistic timelines, regional needs, and the full spectrum of risks is like building a tower on shaky foundations. True, Jenga is a highly imperfect metaphor. When playing Jenga, collapse is inevitable and the tower can easily be rebuilt. However, in the real world, a collapse can be catastrophic and can take months to repair or decades to rebuild, all while failing to provide necessary services to masses of people. A “perfect” system would be affordable, highly reliable and would minimize emissions. Maybe Star Trek had it figured out, but as I recall, getting your hands on a reliable supply of dilithium could sometimes be a challenge. The clean energy tower will stand if managed carefully, but everybody involved must methodically assess primary, secondary, and tertiary impacts, and be prepared for potential downsides. In our transition to cleaner energy, we must also recognize the importance of the resources in our backyard, including the timely pursuit of the Alaska liquefied natural gas (LNG) project. As Sen. Dan Sullivan wrote, the stars are aligned to make a major push for Alaska LNG, and I couldn’t agree more. This project not only contributes to our energy security but also holds the promise of substantial economic benefits. The Alaska LNG project will create jobs, stimulate local economies, and strengthen the supply side of our energy infrastructure, both to Alaskans and as an Alaska export. It can contribute to national security and stand as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between Alaska’s rich natural resources, responsible resource development, and our energy future. ADVERTISEMENT To accomplish a smooth transition, we must become adept students of risk and change management. The scale of change we envision brings significant risks that we must navigate to avoid painful disruptions. Supporting crucial projects through hydroelectric construction and expansion, independent power producers, mining for “green economy” materials, investing in battery energy storage systems (BESS) and micronuclear modules, and developing clean energy innovations will play a vital role in our success. I don’t, however, want a little caution to undermine or slow down the great progress that Alaska is making. The Governor’s Alaska Energy Security Task Force is doing important work and is close to outputting their final report, which I look forward to reading. The Alaska Energy Authority is doing great work on system-wide planning, Railbelt, and rural energy development, and most recently, on securing hundreds of millions of dollars for Railbelt BESS deployment along with the installation of a parallel transmission route between Kenai Peninsula and Anchorage. The newly formed Railbelt Reliability Council is now up and running. The Alaska Housing Finance Corp. is keeping an eye on the issues for homeowners and commercial buildings. The clean energy transition holds immense promise, but we must strike a balance between progress and caution. Rushing forward without proper risk management may lead to unintended consequences. By learning from the lessons of Jenga, we can build a stable and sustainable future for our energy system and for Alaska. Sen. James Kaufman represents District F, including parts of South Anchorage and the Hillside, in the Alaska Senate. 10/25/23, 8:24 AM Feds fund improvements for Alaska's Railbelt electric grid - Alaska Public Media https://alaskapublic.org/2023/10/20/feds-fund-improvements-for-alaskas-railbelt-electric-grid/1/2 Feds fund improvements for Alaska’s Railbelt electric grid Some transmission lines on the Railbelt haven’t been upgraded in decades. (Sabine Poux/KDLL) The Biden administration is sending Alaska more than $200 million to improve the Railbelt electrical grid, which runs from Homer to Fairbanks. The project includes a high-voltage submarine cable between the Kenai Peninsula and Anchorage and multiple battery energy storage systems. All three members of Alaska’s congressional delegation lauded the Department of Energy award. In a joint press release, they noted that the money comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill of 2021, which both U.S. senators voted for. Congresswoman Mary Peltola says her office took the lead on pressing the Biden administration for the grant. She says she personally spoke to the president and the Energy secretary about it. “Every penny that we asked for we received so I think that really says something,” she said. The Alaska Energy Authority has long advocated for infrastructure improvements to make the grid more reliable and to better deliver hydroelectric power from Bradley Lake, near By Liz Ruskin, Alaska Public Media -October 20, 2023 10/25/23, 8:24 AM Feds fund improvements for Alaska's Railbelt electric grid - Alaska Public Media https://alaskapublic.org/2023/10/20/feds-fund-improvements-for-alaskas-railbelt-electric-grid/2/2 Homer. The federal grant must be matched by an equal amount from elsewhere, bringing the total to $413 million. Peltola says the improvements will allow power from a variety of sources. “We’ve got to update our grid to allow for renewables to go into the grid and provide some redundancies,” she said. “And with our extreme weather and long distances, it certainly is an investment that we need to make.” The project is expected to be completed in eight years. Correction: The original version of this story relied on a press release from the congressional delegation to report that the Alaska Energy Authority would provide the matching funds. The AEA says the source of the required match has not been identified. Liz Ruskin, Alaska Public Media Liz Ruskin is the Washington, D.C., correspondent at Alaska Public Media. Reach her at lruskin@alaskapublic.org. Read more about Liz here. 10/19/23, 1:47 PM Alaska Energy Authority receives $206 million grant for Railbelt upgrades | Alaska News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/alaska-energy-authority-receives-206-million-grant-for-railbelt-upgrades/article_31047ed0-6df0-11ee-…1/3 https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/alaska-energy-authority-receives-206-million-grant-for-railbelt- upgrades/article_31047ed0-6df0-11ee-beb8-334a7f976dc5.html Alaska Energy Authority receives $206 million grant for Railbelt upgrades Staff report Oct 19, 2023 Courtesy GVEA At just under 25 megawatts, Eva Creek is among the largest wind projects in Alaska and the first by a Railbelt utility. It is 14 miles from Healy. Courtesy GVEA The Alaska Energy Authority, the state’s independent energy policy and development office, received a $206.5 million grant for the Railbelt Innovation Resiliency project to help modernize the Railbelt’s grid, the agency announced. 10/19/23, 1:47 PM Alaska Energy Authority receives $206 million grant for Railbelt upgrades | Alaska News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/alaska-energy-authority-receives-206-million-grant-for-railbelt-upgrades/article_31047ed0-6df0-11ee-…2/3 The grant helps fund construct a high voltage direct current submarine cable from the Kenai Peninsula to Anchorage, creating a parallel transmission route in case of power disruptions in the system. “The Railbelt transmission system is the largest electrical grid in Alaska and critical for the continued support of statewide economic and community development,” said AEA Executive Director Curtis Thayer in a prepared statement. “Over 75% of Alaska’s population depends on the Railbelt, making it one of the state’s most important pieces of infrastructure. Bradley Lake Hydroelectric Project, near Homer, provides a large amount of power to the rest of the Railbelt, including Golden Valley Electric Association. The new submarine line would help reduce power interruptions to the system. The grant also provides funding for multiple battery energy storage systems (BESS) along the Railbelt with a focus on central and northern regions. AEA Board chair Dana Pruhs called the grant “a real game-changer in our ability to transform the Railbelt.” “Over 75 percent of Alaska’s population depends on the Railbelt, making it one of the state’s most important pieces of infrastructure,” Pruhs said. “The Railbelt transmission system is the largest electrical grid in Alaska and critical for the continued support of statewide economic and community development.” AEA will need to provide an equal $206.5 million match. The Railbelt innovation project will take about eight years to complete. The energy office has long advocated for overhauling the Railbelt infrastructure, along with the Alaska Intertie, the 170-mile 345-kilovolt transmission line between Willow and Healy that connects Golden Valley Electric Association to the rest of the Railbelt. In a joint statement, all three of Alaska’s federal delegation, heralded the grant as a positive step forward in addressing the state’s energy needs. “This is an extraordinary opportunity, not only for the Railbelt, but for all of Alaska to share in the benefit,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski. Murkowski added the upgrades will also provide greater assistance to the state’s Power Cost Equalization program, which subsidizes rural Alaska energy 10/19/23, 1:47 PM Alaska Energy Authority receives $206 million grant for Railbelt upgrades | Alaska News | newsminer.com https://www.newsminer.com/news/alaska_news/alaska-energy-authority-receives-206-million-grant-for-railbelt-upgrades/article_31047ed0-6df0-11ee-…3/3 jbarnwell costs. “All Alaskans will see their energy costs lowered when this project reaches completion,” Murkowksi said. Sen. Dan Sullivan said energy security remains critical in a state that contends with everything from earthquakes and tsunamis to floods, wildfires and blizzards. “Maintaining access to electricity, especially for communities far from larger population centers, can be a matter of life and death during an emergency,” Sullivan said. “I look forward to AEA breaking ground on this important project that will have the potential to significantly expand hydroelectric power and other renewables, modernize our state’s electrical grid, help lower the cost of energy for thousands of Alaskans, and go a long way toward keeping our lights and heat on when we need it most.” Rep. Mary Peltola called the grant the next step in establishing the state as a diverse energy powerhouse. “We shouldn’t have to import expensive Outside energy when we have so many affordable options at our fingertips, and now we have the chance to make our energy grid truly work for Alaskans,” Peltola said. Peltola’s predecessor, Rep. Don Young, was a strong advocate for improving Alaska’s energy infrastructure and securing project funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. “This project will fund redundant transmission and battery energy storage systems throughout the Railbelt, creating a stronger energy grid that will have more capability to accept and distribute energy from renewable sources throughout the state, bringing more domestic Alaskan energy to power more Alaskan homes and businesses,” Peltola said. Contact reporter Jack Barnwell at 907-459-7587 or jbarnwell@newsminer.com. 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 October 18, 2023 AEA Secures $206.5 Million from U.S. DOE to modernize Alaska’s energy infrastructure (Anchorage) — The Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) has secured $206.5 million for Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership (GRIP) Topic Area 3: Grid Innovation through the United States Department of Energy Grid’s (DOE) Grid Deployment Office (GDO). A cost share of 100 percent, or $206.5 million, is required for a total project amount of $413 million. The awarded Railbelt Innovation Resiliency (RIR) project will construct a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) submarine cable to serve as a parallel transmission route from the Kenai Peninsula to Anchorage, creating a much-needed redundant system in case of disruptive events. In addition, the RIR project will provide funding for multiple battery energy storage systems (BESS) within the respective serving areas of the Railbelt utilities, with a focus on the central and northern regions of the Railbelt electrical grid. The project is estimated to take eight years to complete. “The Railbelt transmission system is the largest electrical grid in Alaska and critical for the continued support of statewide economic and community development,” said AEA Board Chair Dana Pruhs. “Over 75 percent of Alaska's population depends on the Railbelt, making it one of the state's most important pieces of infrastructure. Securing this historic funding is a real game- changer in our ability to transform the Railbelt.” “Thanks to millions in federal funding, we have the opportunity to elevate Alaska's aging Railbelt electrical grid to today's industry standards,” said AEA Executive Director Curtis W. Thayer. “I am extremely proud of AEA’s team and the Railbelt utilities’ partnership. Through joint cooperation, we can improve resilience and energy security, diversify the state’s energy portfolio, and accelerate the use of renewables and clean power.” “The State of Alaska is on the precipice of investing hundreds of millions of dollars in upgrades to its dated transmission infrastructure thanks to the collaboration between the Railbelt utilities, the Alaska Energy Authority, and Alaska’s Congressional Delegation. Working together this team secured federal funds to build a second transmission line from the Kenai Peninsula to Anchorage and install much-needed battery storage into the grid. These investments will allow power to be produced at the lowest cost location for the benefit of all Alaskans,” said Homer Electric Association General Manager Brad Janorschke. Alaska Energy Authority Page 2 of 2 As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the GDO is administering a $10.5 billion GRIP Program to enhance grid flexibility and improve the resilience of the power system against the growing threats of extreme weather and climate change. Programs such as GRIP are intended to accelerate the deployment of transformative projects that will help to ensure the reliability of the power sector’s infrastructure, so all American communities have access to affordable, reliable, clean electricity anytime, anywhere. AEA also applied for GRIP Topic Area 3: Grid Innovation Program, Project Title: Rural Alaska Microgrid Transformation. That application is still pending with the DOE. ### 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. GRID RESILIENCE AND INNOVATION PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM Established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the U.S Department of Energy’s Grid Deployment Office is administering a historic $10.5 billion investment via the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program to enhance grid flexibility, improve the resilience of the power system against growing threats of extreme weather and climate change, and ensure American communities have access to affordable, reliable, clean electricity when and where they need it. The Railbelt Innovative Resiliency (RIR) Project is a unique partnership between the State of Alaska, four Railbelt Regional Electric Cooperatives, a Railbelt municipal utility, the Regulatory Commission of Alaska, and local labor unions. The project will incentivize crucial transmission investment through innovative rate-making techniques, and it will have a direct benefit for tribal and disadvantaged communities (DACs) within the Railbelt and rural Power Cost Equalization communities by building a resilient, ›Project: Railbelt Innovative Resiliency Project ›Applicant/Selectee: Alaska Energy Authority ›GRIP Program: Grid Innovation Program (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Section 40103(b)) ›Federal cost share: $206,500,000 ›Recipient cost share: $206,500,000 ›Project Location: Alaska ›Project type: Interregional Interconnection PROJECT DETAILS FACT SHEET GRID DEPLOYMENT OFFICE MODERNIZING TRANSMISSION INFRASTRUCTURE FOR A CLEANER, MORE AFFORDABLE ELECTRIC GRID IN ALASKA ›Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program ›About the Grid Deployment Office HELPFUL LINKS clean, smart, and affordable electrical grid in Alaska. The primary objective of the RIR Project is to address various challenges facing the electrical grid in the three Railbelt regions of Alaska. These challenges include decreasing system frequency regulation, slowing frequency response to disturbances, and increasing natural frequency power oscillations. The project will incorporate Battery Energy Storage (BESS) and a High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) submarine cable installed in a challenging marine environment to address the need for increased transfer capacity and advanced system regulation management technologies. Anticipated Outcomes and Benefits ›Increases transfer capacity between regions that enables higher renewable energy integration into the electricity system.›Resilience and reliability improvements for the tribal and DACs located in the Railbelt region, and a reduction in reliance on fossil fuel generation and associated emissions.›Supports the retention of high-quality jobs in the region, including 650 highly paid union jobs with competitive employer-sponsored benefits.›Creates apprenticeship and internship programs to train a new generation of lineworkers and wireworkers to reinvigorate Alaska’s energy workforce. Published October 2023. Fact sheet information is based on project applications at the time of publication and should not be considered final. 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 Railbelt Innovation Resiliency Project Project Objective, Justification, and Scope of Work A. OBJECTIVE AND JUSTIFICATION The Railbelt Innovation Resiliency (RIR) Project aims to enhance resiliency and transfer capability among the three regions of the Railbelt. The Railbelt has experienced decreasing frequency regulation, slowed disturbance response, and increasing magnitude natural frequency oscillations. The current Railbelt system configuration restricts the adoption of clean energy, diversification of the fuel supply, and Alaska’s preparation for a sustainable carbon-free future. A key priority to achieve this objective is to reinforce interconnections between the primary regions of the Railbelt by adding parallel lines and implementing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to resolve long-standing frequency control and instability issues. Alongside the High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) submarine cable, these additions will alleviate transmission congestion and optimize interregional transfer capability. The project's innovative solutions hold the promise of curbing escalating energy prices, which currently rank among the highest in the nation, while providing rural residents and disadvantaged communities with an opportunity to enhance community viability. Sharing these solutions with other communities will support our collective efforts toward clean, reliable, and affordable energy for all. Federal funding is $206.5 million and a cost share of $206.5 million for a total project amount of $413 million. AEA will continue to work with the Governor and potential funding partners to secure the required match. Funding could come through loans, utility funds, private entities, or an appropriation from the State of Alaska, subject to legislative approval. The project is estimated to be completed in eight years. B. SCOPE OF WORK This phase of the RIR project involves connecting the Kenai Peninsula with a DC Bi-polar High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) submarine circuit to the Railbelt Central Region (Anchorage and Matanuska & Susitna Valleys). In addition, two new Battery Energy Storage systems (BESS) will be installed in the Central and Northern regions. Coordinated interregional control and operations of the BESSs and HVDC line will tie all the individual systems together to maximize stability and limit congestion. Phase 1 — HVDC Submarine Circuit across Cook Inlet: The HVDC submarine Cable system provides for increased transfer capability and the ability to mitigate system stability challenges aiding in the elimination of interregional oscillations. It connects the Southern and Central regions to allow increased energy from clean project to travel between regions and keep electricity on when a transmission route is impacted by an event. Phase 2 — BESS units in both Central Northern Regions and Southern (existing) will work to control frequency caused by transmission line or generation trips from either unplanned unit trips or non-dispatchable power swings caused by wind and solar. The BESS units are necessary to fully integrate variable renewable generation and will work in concert with the HVDC controllers to minimize system oscillations. 11/21/23, 2:17 PM 👀 Discover how NEVI’s Phase One rollout will proceed on Oct. 26 https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=02fa93b4d5 1/2 View this email in your browser AKEVWG Technical Session Public Notice October 15, 2023 The Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) will hold its next Alaska Electric Vehicle Working Group Technical Session on Thursday, October 26, 2023, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Alaska's National 11/21/23, 2:17 PM 👀 Discover how NEVI’s Phase One rollout will proceed on Oct. 26 https://us10.campaign-archive.com/?u=7bde743be4d525a5f52d948ed&id=02fa93b4d5 2/2 Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula (NEVI) Program site host selection, schedule, and the path forward. Join representatives from AEA, the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, and successful site host applicants for a hybrid technical session to learn about the next steps we will take to implement Phase One of NEVI funding. Remote attendees join us via Zoom: Join via Zoom by clicking this link or with the information below: Meeting ID: 864 5898 3905 Passcode: 224049 • 888 475 4499 US Toll-free • 833 548 0276 US Toll-free • 833 548 0282 US Toll-free • 877 853 5257 US Toll-free In-person attendees, please RSVP! Join in person at 813 W Northern Lights Blvd., Anchorage, AK 99503 Lunch will be provided to attendees in person at AEA's office, so please RSVP by Tuesday, October 24, 2023 — and indicate that you will "attend in person." Facebook LinkedIn Website The Alaska Energy Authority’s Alaska Electric Vehicle (EV) Working Group involves collaborative stakeholders focused on promoting the use of 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. RSVP HERE 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 October 13, 2023 AEA Awarded $1.6 Million in U.S. DOE Funds for Clean Energy Projects in Alaska (Anchorage) — The Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) was awarded $1.6 million from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program through the Office of State and Community Energy Programs at the United States Department of Energy. In addition to this award, AEA will contribute $1.4 million from State Energy Program funds to establish the Renewable Energy Village Energy Efficiency Program (RE-VEEP), making $3 million available for carbon-reduction projects across the state. Using the Village Energy Efficiency Program framework, AEA will subgrant funds to eligible local governments to finance building-scale renewable energy, energy efficiency, and conservation projects in public buildings and facilities located in rural Alaska. As a result of these projects, small high-cost communities will be able to reduce their energy consumption and costs. RE-VEEP will be open to local governments ineligible for direct formula grant funding under the EECBG Program. Alaska is among the first of over 2,700 eligible states, territories, local governments, and Tribes to receive a portion of the EECBG Program funding to help meet the unique energy needs in communities that serve more than 250 million Americans. All states will subgrant at least 60 percent of their funds to local governments that were ineligible for formula funds. Formula grants will be awarded on a rolling basis as DOE receives complete applications. AEA will administer RE-VEEP according to federal applicant and project eligibility requirements. It is anticipated that a Request for Applications will be issued in early 2024. ### 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.