During National Clean Energy Week, we wanted to provide you with a few updates on the fight for an affordable and sustainable energy future here in Alaska and encourage you to get more involved. Sign up to volunteer here, and we’ll reach out to find the best fit for you to engage! 

On Monday, Governor Dunleavy used “Alaska Clean Energy Week” to double down on his commitment to fossil fuels. After a cursory mention of the capacity for sustainable energy in Alaska, he used this proclamation to tout false solutions like an LNG pipeline, coal, and more extractive development. Instead of taking meaningful action to protect Alaskans from high energy prices and polluted air and waters, the Governor is virtue signaling to the federal government and the fossil fuel industry. 

We know that despite this proclamation, Alaskans want to see clean and affordable energy developed that doesn’t harm our communities financially or environmentally. Many of you joined us to talk about just that at Clean Power Happy Hour with Natalie Kiley-Bergen of Alaska Public Interest Research Group (AKPIRG) and Cady Lister of Renewable Energy Alaska Project (REAP). Cady grounded us with a reminder that the cost of energy is not just an inconvenience – it is a tipping point in whether Alaska is an affordable place for families to live and stay, and whether our communities are inclusive economically. 

To create a stronger and more stable energy system, electric cooperatives on the Railbelt grid must work together more efficiently. The public also needs a clearer understanding of the costs of different types of power generation – and how those costs are calculated. This requires decision-makers to be transparent about how they evaluate projects, the real costs of proposed projects, and what they consider when calculating “avoided costs” (what the utility would have to pay for power generation if they did not get it from another source — a tool used to evaluate whether or not to build a project). Without clear information, ratepayers can’t fully take part in these conversations. Transparency at every level is critical to our fight for clean and affordable energy. 

Although many meetings that relate to major energy decisions are open, few members of the public typically attend. On Wednesday night, six highly engaged ratepayers showed up to comment in person at the Chugach Electric monthly Board of Directors meeting, with others submitting comments online ahead of time. Members spoke in favor of greater transparency around cost considerations, renewable energy development, and long-term planning for beneficial electrification and a warming climate. 

Because of ongoing advocacy from ratepayers over the years, much more information is now disclosed in public sessions at Chugach Electric meetings. The Board also approved a new three-year contract with IBEW, discussed the gas supply, and heard an update on some of the staff’s efforts to develop a proactive business development plan to encourage electrification moving forward. 

Next month’s Chugach Electric Board meeting will be held on October 22 at 4:00 pm and ratepayers can sign up here to attend or just show up in person. Interested in attending but not sure where to start? Live outside of the Chugach Electric service area and want to get involved with your electric provider? Reach out to [email protected] or fill out our volunteer form for more information. 

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The Alaska Center