High Impact Hydro Projects on the Kenai
Learn about the two high impact, low output projects on the Kenai River watershed.
Hydroelectric Projects Proposed for the Kenai River Watershed
Homer Electric Association (HEA) filed preliminary permits with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to study the feasibility of four hydroelectric projects in the Kenai River Watershed. Crescent Lake, Ptarmigan Lake, Grant Lake and Falls Creek are all are located within the Chugach National Forest and all are tributaries of the Kenai River.
HEA surrendered the permits for Crescent Lake and Ptarmigan due to their findings that these two sites were economically and environmentally unfeasible to develop. However, they are still studying the feasibility of Grant Lake and Falls Creek.
The sites being considered are high-value recreational lands with resident and anadromous fish populations. There are legitimate concerns being raised by local residents, agencies, fishermen and conservationists about these projects.
PROJECT UPDATE (July 17, 2010)
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) held public scoping meetings for the Grant Lake hydroelectric project on June 2nd and 3rd. The FERC comment period is now closed.
Stay tuned for updates from ACE. In the meantime, to find out how you can help, check out this great
article in the Anchorage Daily News from July 17, or contact Valerie at valerie@akcenter.org
ACE has been a strong advocate for the Renewable Energy Fund and we support a comprehensive review of all projects to ensure that these funds are distributed to viable projects that will result in clean, low-impact energy solutions. Click on the links below to find out more.
