Legislature(2009 - 2010)HAINES
09/16/2009 01:30 PM House ENERGY
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| HB218|| HB219 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | HB 218 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | HB 219 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
JOINT MEETING
HOUSE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON ENERGY
SENATE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON ENERGY
SENATE RESOURCES STANDING COMMITTEE
Haines, Alaska
September 16, 2009
2:04 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
HOUSE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON ENERGY
Representative Bryce Edgmon, Co-Chair
Representative Charisse Millett, Co-Chair
Representative Nancy Dahlstrom
Representative Kyle Johansen
Representative Jay Ramras
Representative Chris Tuck (via teleconference)
SENATE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON ENERGY
Senator Lesil McGuire, Chair
Senator Albert Kookesh
Senator Bert Stedman
Senator Bill Wielechowski
SENATE RESOURCES
Senator Lesil McGuire, Co-Chair
Senator Bill Wielechowski, Co-Chair
Senator Hollis French
Senator Bert Stedman
MEMBERS ABSENT
HOUSE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON ENERGY
Representative Pete Petersen
SENATE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON ENERGY
Senator Lyman Hoffman
SENATE RESOURCES
Senator Charlie Huggins, Vice Chair
Senator Gary Stevens
Senator Thomas Wagoner
OTHER LEGISLATORS PRESENT
Representative John Harris
Representative Cathy Munoz
Representative Bill Thomas
Representative Peggy Wilson
Senator Dennis Egan
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
HOUSE BILL NO. 218
"An Act establishing and relating to the Department of Energy
and to the board of directors of the Alaska Energy Authority;
transferring the Alaska Energy Authority and the Alaska Natural
Gas Authority to the Department of Energy; and transferring the
home energy and weatherization program to the Department of
Energy."
-HEARD & HELD
HOUSE BILL NO. 219
"An Act relating to the renewable energy grant fund."
-HEARD & HELD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: HB 218
SHORT TITLE: CREATING DEPT OF ENERGY/AEA BD
SPONSOR(s): ENERGY
04/06/09 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/06/09 (H) ENE, FIN
05/29/09 (H) ENE AT 1:00 PM Bethel
05/29/09 (H) Heard & Held
05/29/09 (H) MINUTE(ENE)
06/17/09 (H) ENE AT 5:00 PM Fairbanks
06/17/09 (H) Heard & Held
06/17/09 (H) MINUTE(ENE)
08/07/09 (H) ENE AT 2:00 PM Kenai
08/07/09 (H) Heard & Held
08/07/09 (H) MINUTE(ENE)
08/26/09 (H) ENE AT 5:00 PM Dutch Harbor
08/26/09 (H) Heard & Held
08/26/09 (H) MINUTE(ENE)
09/16/09 (H) ENE AT 1:30 PM HAINES
BILL: HB 219
SHORT TITLE: RENEWABLE ENERGY GRANT REQUIREMENTS
SPONSOR(s): ENERGY
04/06/09 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/06/09 (H) ENE, RES, FIN
05/29/09 (H) ENE AT 1:00 PM Bethel
05/29/09 (H) Heard & Held
05/29/09 (H) MINUTE(ENE)
06/17/09 (H) ENE AT 5:00 PM Fairbanks
06/17/09 (H) Heard & Held
06/17/09 (H) MINUTE(ENE)
08/07/09 (H) ENE AT 2:00 PM Kenai
08/07/09 (H) Heard & Held
08/07/09 (H) MINUTE(ENE)
08/26/09 (H) ENE AT 5:00 PM Dutch Harbor
08/26/09 (H) Heard & Held
08/26/09 (H) MINUTE(ENE)
09/16/09 (H) ENE AT 1:30 PM HAINES
WITNESS REGISTER
JAN HILL, Mayor
Haines Borough
Haines, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
related efforts to address energy in the Haines area.
ROBERT VENABLES, Energy Coordinator
Southeast Conference
Haines, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed Southeast Conference's efforts with regard to energy.
JIM STRANDBERG, Project Manager
Alaska Energy Authority (AEA)
Department of Commerce, Community, & Economic Development
(DCCED)
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed AEA's efforts in Southeast Alaska and reviewed some of
the major projects.
ALBERT HOWARD, Mayor
City of Angoon
Angoon, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed the impact of energy costs in Angoon.
AL DWYER, Mayor
City of Petersburg
Petersburg, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
related that Petersburg wants to have an electrical grid in
Southeast and have cost controls.
HENRICH KADAKE, SR., Mayor
City of Kake
Kake, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During HB 218 and HB 219, related the dire
situation in Kake.
SUE LIBENSON
Haines, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
expressed the need to review all the alternative energy options,
particularly those that don't impact salmon.
KATHLEEN MENKE
Haines, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219, urged
the committees not to provide blind support and open-ended
funding to any and all projects in the name of renewable energy
without consideration of Alaska's wild fish stocks.
SALLY McGUIRE
Lutak, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
expressed her opposition to the proposed Chilkoot dam.
TIM JUNE
Haines, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During the hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
encouraged the development of a comprehensive energy plan and
offered suggestions.
LISA LANG, Member/Spokesperson
Reynolds Creek Hydroelectric Project
Haida Corporation
Hydaburg, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During the hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed the Reynolds Creek Hydroelectric Project.
WARREN EDGLEY, Member
City Council
City & Borough of Wrangell
Wrangell Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed the relationship between the Alaska Canada Intertie
and the Southeast Intertie.
ERNIE CHRISTIAN, Vice Mayor
City & Borough of Wrangell;
Chair, Energy Committee
Wrangell, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed the Alaska Canada Energy Coalition.
ROB GOLDBERG
Haines, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed Shubee Lake as the site of a possible hydro power
project.
DUFF MITCHELL, Director
Cascade Creek, LLC
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed the need to pursue the AK-BC Intertie.
STEPHANIE SCOTT, Haines Borough Energy and Sustainability
Coordinator
Haines Borough Energy and Sustainability Commission
City & Borough of Haines
Haines, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: During hearing of HB 218 and HB 219,
discussed the commission's efforts.
ACTION NARRATIVE
2:04:58 PM
CO-CHAIR BRYCE EDGMON called the joint meeting of the House
Special Committee on Energy and the Senate Special Committee on
Energy and the Senate Resources Standing Committee to order at
2:04 p.m. Representatives Edgmon, Millett, Dahlstrom, Johansen,
Ramras, and Tuck (via teleconference) and Senators McGuire,
Wielechowski, French, Stedman, and Kookesh were present at the
call to order. Also in attendance were Representatives Harris,
Munoz, Thomas, and Wilson and Senator Egan.
HB 218-CREATING DEPT OF ENERGY/AEA BD
HB 219-RENEWABLE ENERGY GRANT REQUIREMENTS
CO-CHAIR EDGMON announced that the only order of business would
be HOUSE BILL NO. 218, "An Act establishing and relating to the
Department of Energy and to the board of directors of the Alaska
Energy Authority; transferring the Alaska Energy Authority and
the Alaska Natural Gas Authority to the Department of Energy;
and transferring the home energy and weatherization program to
the Department of Energy." and HOUSE BILL NO. 219, "An Act
relating to the renewable energy grant fund."
2:05:39 PM
SENATOR KOOKESH welcomed everyone to Haines, the district that
he and Representative Thomas serve. Senator Kookesh related
that he and Representative Thomas believe that the future in
rural Alaska is low cost energy. The aforementioned has
resulted in much work in the area of hydro projects, of which
there are eight in Southeast Alaska. The hydro project in
Metlakatla is over 100 years old, he mentioned, and yet it has
enough power to offer power for Ketchikan over the next couple
of years.
2:08:02 PM
CO-CHAIR McGUIRE, speaking on behalf of the Senate committees,
thanked everyone for attending today's hearing. She then
introduced her Senate colleagues.
2:09:24 PM
CO-CHAIR EDGMON then had the attending Representatives introduce
themselves. He extended thanks to the Southeast Conference and
the legislators from the area for scheduling this meeting.
2:13:48 PM
CO-CHAIR MILLET informed everyone that before the committee are
two pieces of legislation, HB 218 and HB 219. She explained
that after hearing that the state's energy agencies are spread
throughout various state departments, HB 218 was introduced to
create a Department of Energy. A Department of Energy will
consolidate resources and provide a one-stop shop for energy
needs. The other legislation, HB 219, is cleanup legislation
that implements recommendations from a recent report on HB 152,
sponsored by Representative Harris, such that when renewable
energy projects are funded, they actually come to fruition,
reduce energy costs, and displace diesel. Co-Chair Millet then
informed everyone that there is also draft legislation that has
been developed by a stakeholders' group. This draft legislation
is the beginning of an energy policy that will be introduced
next session. She requested feedback on all the aforementioned
measures.
2:16:51 PM
REPRESENTATIVE HARRIS noted that he worked closely with co-
sponsor Representative Thomas on HB 152.
2:17:47 PM
JAN HILL, Mayor, Haines Borough, related that energy is an
important topic in the Haines Borough. She noted that Haines
and Skagway recently celebrated the opening of the Kasidaya
Creek Hydro Project. She then told the committees that a year
ago, Haines created an Energy and Sustainability Commission,
which made the community more aware of energy uses, how energy
could be used more wisely, and how the cost of energy could be
reduced. The Haines Borough Assembly was pleased with the work
of the commission and decided to extend it for a few months to
continue its work. Mayor Hill related that the public process
for the possible Connelly Lake Hydro Project will take place
soon. She expressed the desire to review the options and
determine which option will serve the needs of the Upper Lynn
Canal the best in terms of cost and impact to the environment.
2:21:23 PM
ROBERT VENABLES, Energy Coordinator, Southeast Conference,
paraphrased from the following written testimony [original
punctuation provided]:
Southeast Conference is the State of Alaska's Regional
Development Organization (ARDOR), the Federal Economic
Development District (EDD) and the USDA Resource
Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council for
Southeast Alaska. Our mission is to help develop
strong economies, healthy communities and a quality
environment in Southeast Alaska.
Southeast Conference was formed over 50 years ago in
response to the region's need for improved
transportation and an advocate for the ferry system.
Since then, our member communities have worked through
Southeast Conference on issues ranging from
transportation, economic development, timber,
fisheries, mining, environment, health care, tourism
and energy. Our energy committee first gathered in
1997 as the Intertie Committee and produced the study
in 1998 called the Southeast Alaska Electrical
Intertie System Plan. That study has been the guiding
document for the concept of a region-wide
interconnected intertie system that would (in a
perfect world) provide energy security and electrical
redundancy for the communities of Southeast.
However, as construction costs continue to escalate
and time passes, our focus is turned toward the
resources at hand and the extreme need that still
exists in many communities such as: Kake, Angoon and
Hoonah. Many of our more urban communities are facing
shortages in the near and foreseeable future as the
demand for energy exceeds the capacity of current
renewable resources.
But, Southeast Alaska has a plan. Each of our
communities has short-term and long-term objectives
that, if constructed, will meet the needs of our
region. We have had significant achievements this past
year due, in large part, to the work of the
Legislature and the guidance of the Alaska Energy
Authority. The Southeast Conference Energy Committee
will be meeting directly after this hearing, and will
have more in-depth reports to share on the current
status and projected plans for each utility.
The most significant achievement in the region this
year is the completion of [the Southeast Alaska Power
Agency] SEAPA's Swan-Tyee Intertie. You will hear more
on this from Mr. Dave Carlson, but this project has
been long advocated by Southeast Conference. What we
are seeing emerge is a stable supply of renewable
resources and a network that can extend from
Metlakatla, where there is already surplus power
generated and additional resources along the intertie
route, to the community of Kake where there are no
significant renewable resources to develop in a
community that is economically devastated. Southeast
Conference is working with SEAPA, IPEC [Inside Passage
Electric Corporation] and the local governments and
making significant progress on the Kake-Petersburg
Intertie that will allow Kake to displace its diesel-
generated power and enable Kake to be revitalized,
both socially and economically.
2:26:12 PM
Other significant milestones for the region are the
completion of 3 new hydroelectric facilities. [Alaska
Electric Light & Power] AEL&P's Lake Dorothy Hydro in
Juneau, AP&T's Kasidaya Creek Hydro in Upper Lynn
Canal and the Falls Creek Hydro Electric facility in
Gustavus.
We are particularly grateful for the state's
investment of nearly $17 million into renewable energy
projects in Southeast Alaska. This will allow many of
the most critically needed projects to advance, such
as the interties from Petersburg to Kake and
Metlakatla to Ketchikan (construction funds are still
needed) and the intertie to Coffman Cove and Naukati
(which should be completed next season), as well as
generation projects such as the Reynolds Creek Hydro,
Whitman Lake Hydro and a feasibility study for the
Takatz Lake Hydro.
We are also appreciative of the important legislation
that has passed (HJR 25, especially HB 152) and those
still under consideration such as SB 132 (S.E. Energy
Fund), SB 31 (renewable energy production tax
credits), and HB 218 and HB 219 which are being
discussed today.
Southeast Conference is extremely grateful for the
support and guidance given by the Alaska Energy
Authority. Their expertise has helped the region to
make more informed decisions and build better
projects. We are currently working with AEA and our
local municipalities and utilities to update energy
plans that have been in existence for many years and
have, in some cases, become obsolete. Having a current
up-to-date Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) is key to
understanding which projects truly need to be
constructed and brought on line first. This will be a
top priority as we develop an energy plan for the
region and state.
2:29:42 PM
Another important project needing immediate funding is
the development of a comprehensive energy plan for
Hoonah and Chichagof Island. Each of the 4 communities
on the island have energy projects underway to address
short-term needs. Southeast Conference facilitated an
island-wide joint meeting in Hoonah this summer that
discussed the untapped potential that may exist around
the communities of Hoonah, Pelican, Tenakee Springs
and Elfin Cove.
One of the obsolete energy plans that has been
abandoned is the intertie from Juneau to Hoonah. While
technically feasible, a recent analysis of the
proposed intertie showed the construction costs
ranging between $40-50 million. This coupled with the
future costs for operations, maintenance and eventual
line replacement made constructing this intertie (in
one of the world's deepest channels) uneconomical.
As you can see by the attached FY 2010 Work Plan
established by the Southeast Conference Energy
Committee, there is much work yet to be done. But
progress is being made and we hope that with your
support we can continue to work toward continued
success in implementing our shared vision to utilize
Southeast's plentiful hydroelectric potential and
reduce, to the maximum extent possible, the use of
diesel as a primary fuel source for the generation of
electricity.
MR. VENABLES then directed attention to the slide entitled
"Southeast's Hydros = Bullet Line," which highlights the
plentiful resources available in Southeast Alaska.
2:32:20 PM
JIM STRANDBERG, Project Manager, Alaska Energy Authority (AEA),
Department of Commerce, Community, & Economic Development
(DCCED), said that today he would discuss AEA's efforts in
Southeast Alaska and review the major appropriations projects.
He noted that he and Representative Wilson have had some good
dialogue about the Alaska-British Columbia (AK-BC) Export
Intertie. Furthermore, the Canadian government has put forth a
press release saying it will fund a backbone transmission line
that would bring the robust transmission connect to within 60
miles of the Alaska border. This is likely to be a three-year
project, on the Canadian side. There has been considerable
discussion in Southeast Alaska regarding whether to connect via
an export intertie to export excess hydropower. The backbone
transmission connection is one more step from the Canadians that
could result in the eventual interconnection. He opined that
interconnection makes for a more robust network and under the
right circumstances would allow export/import of power. The
state's energy future, he remarked, is unknown. Furthermore, in
the near term the electric systems in Southeast Alaska are
coming under stress as more and more people connect to electric
heat, and thus draw more current from the wires than originally
conceived to be needed.
2:35:52 PM
MR. STRANDBERG then turned attention to the Petersburg to Kake
Intertie Project. He explained that AEA has over $4 million
from several sources, one of which was a reappropriation of
funds into the intertie project. Also, IPEC filed for a
renewable grant from which it received an additional $2 million
for the project. He noted that AEA is working with the
Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) on
this project due to the proposed road between Petersburg and
Kake and the congressional easement. If the agencies
cooperated, the road and the intertie could be constructed
within the same corridor and save money. He related that AEA is
working on finding a way to permit an intertie to Kake, which is
in severe economic distress. The desire is to move as quickly
as possible and arrange for an electrical intertie that is
coordinated with road development.
MR. STRANDBERG then informed the committee that AEA was the
grant conduit for the last segment of funding for the Swann-Tyee
Intertie, in the amount of $46.2 million. Over the last two
years AEA has worked with SEAPA. The Swann-Tyee project is
essentially complete and the hope is for interconnection in
October.
2:38:34 PM
MR. STRANDBERG highlighted the power projects AEA is working on
in Angoon and Hoonah. On the energy planning side, he recalled
mention of integrated resource planning. There are two levels
of planning, one of which is the higher level of energy plans
that are being conducted by Mr. Haagenson, executive director of
AEA. The other level of planning is the integrated resource
plan in which AEA works with regions; the hope is to perform an
island wide integrated plan with the serving utility, AP&T, for
Prince of Wales Island. He noted that AEA is also engaged with
the Southeast Conference on Chichagof Island. Furthermore, AEA
is working with SEAPA, which is instituting an integrated
resource plan for its region; the hope is that work with
Metlakatla and Kake can be integrated in the SEAPA plan.
2:40:08 PM
MR. STRANDBERG returned to the issue of people converting to
electric heat due to the high cost of heating fuel and relative
inexpensive electric costs. The aforementioned is placing
stress on the electric systems in the communities. Moreover,
this trend is likely representing a change condition on the
actual energy planning for the availability of hydroelectric
power. Mr. Strandberg proposed that everyone remain vigilant on
this emerging issue and that AEA report further as the situation
develops. He noted that there was a substantive meeting on the
Kake to Petersburg Intertie, which Senators Thomas and Stedman
attended. Mr. Strandberg thanked both senators for helping to
move the project forward.
MR. STRANDBERG then turned to the renewable energy grant
program, for which there have been recent awards for the
Metlakatla Intertie project. For the aforementioned, Mr.
Strandberg tipped his hat to Representative Thomas. There was
also an award for the Petersburg Kake Intertie and the Reynolds
Creek project on Prince of Wales Island. He noted that Whitman
Lake was awarded for Ketchikan Public Utilities and funds were
put forth for the Takatz Lake Hydroelectric Power project, which
is located in Sitka.
2:42:33 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAMRAS asked for a show of hands of those folks
who heat with the following forms of energy: electricity,
diesel, natural gas, wood, and coal.
2:44:04 PM
REPRESENTATIVE JOHANSEN, referring to the press release from the
Canadian Premier that guarantees about one-quarter of the
funding for the proposed project, inquired as to when AEA is
going to have information for the legislature to analyze.
MR. STRANDBERG related his plan to contact his colleague in
British Columbia with Transmission Corporation, who is the
business development director. He offered to report his
findings to the committee.
2:46:19 PM
ALBERT HOWARD, Mayor, City of Angoon, began by informing the
committee that the unemployment rate in Angoon is 87 percent.
Last winter residents paid $.62 per kilowatt hour (kWh) for
electricity and over $6 a gallon for diesel fuel. At times
Angoon residents face the choice of heating their home or having
electricity. He noted that the subsistence lifestyle of those
in Angoon helps them manage through the winter. Mayor Howard
stressed that [Angoon] sits in the middle of an available
resource, but the city doesn't have the funds to utilize that
resource. He recalled hearing that the project could be funded
if the power cost equalization (PCE) funds were taken for
20 years. He lauded the City Council of Angoon as well as the
city's staff, which are aggressively working to make Angoon a
better place for the children and grandchildren such that
there's more energy security. He opined that everyone in the
region wants more energy security. Mayor Howard opined that by
working together much can be accomplished.
2:49:43 PM
MAYOR HOWARD, in response to Representative Munoz, related his
understanding that the Native corporation would comment on the
Bear Creek project during its testimony.
2:50:09 PM
AL DWYER, Mayor, City of Petersburg, remarked that Petersburg
would be lost without hydro power. He noted his agreement with
earlier comments relating the need for Southeast Alaska to take
care of its own residents before exporting any hydro power.
Mayor Dwyer related that Petersburg wants to have an electrical
grid in Southeast and have cost controls. Currently, wholesale
costs total about $.06 per kWh. The average homeowner pays
about $.11 per kWh, which he attributed to the fact that the
hydro power is publicly owned by SEAPA. The City of Petersburg
wants to have control over the wholesale power rate and wants
the public to own the hydro power. He noted that at least one
developer has some good ideas that are environmentally
acceptable. That corporation, however, is looking to make a
dollar. Energy is so important to Southeast Alaska, he opined.
Mayor Dwyer expressed the need to have a reserve fund for
maintenance and to have the lowest energy costs to consumers in
Southeast Alaska. In closing, he mentioned the need to help
Kake get power.
2:54:33 PM
The committee took an at-ease from 2:54 p.m. to 2:59 p.m.
3:00:31 PM
HENRICH KADAKE, SR., Mayor, City of Kake, began by thanking the
legislators for thinking of Kake and Petersburg when legislation
moves through the process. He commented that the Kake
Petersburg Intertie is moving along, albeit a bit slower than he
would like. Mayor Kadake emphasized that the City of Kake is
very distressed and every day of the year a family moves out of
the community because they can't afford to stay. He related
that he has lived in Kake for 65 years. Although the last 40 of
those years the community has been working on renewable energy
options to no avail, the City of Kake has gone further in the
last few years with the help of the legislature. He stressed
that he has worked hard for Kake, Hoonah, and Tenakee, all of
which are dependent upon diesel. He highlighted that many
residents don't have heat. He then noted his agreement with
Mayor Dwyer regarding the fact that without subsistence many
wouldn't [make it]. Mayor Kadake expressed the desire to fund
the Kake Petersburg Intertie in the next couple of years before
everyone has left. In conclusion, Mayor Kadake emphasized that
addressing the situation in Kake is the top priority of the
Southeast Conference.
3:04:20 PM
CO-CHAIR EDGMON announced that there will be a committee hearing
at the annual Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) convention. He
then turned the gavel over to Co-Chair McGuire.
3:05:12 PM
CO-CHAIR McGUIRE announced that at this time the committees
would now take public testimony.
3:06:03 PM
SUE LIBENSON related that although she is currently a customer
of Alaska Power Telephone (AP&T), for many years prior she lived
off the grid with various alternative sources of energy. She
explained that she decided to pay to have the electrical lines
come to her house, which she felt good about since at the time
AP&T was using hydro power from a source that had no salmon
issues. However, now expanding hydro power for the communities
is being considered. The aforementioned provides an example of
reviewing potential conflicts with other users and community
involvement. After living in Haines for 15 years, Ms. Libenson
said she realizes that Haines "floats" on salmon. Furthermore,
Haines is experiencing an influx of retirees due to the area's
long salmon season. The good news is there are a lot of options
in Southeast Alaska, particularly near Haines. However, with
hydro power one has to consider the salmon and even how that may
impact other Southeast Alaska communities. Noting that there
are some alternative options that don't have conflicts with
salmon, she expressed hope that AP&T will review all the
alternatives and take caution to stay out of the salmon
fisheries.
3:09:36 PM
KATHLEEN MENKE, speaking as a resident of Haines and small
business owner, provided the following testimony:
I understand the legislature is considering setting up
new energy authorities and funding mechanisms in order
to support and provide incentives for renewable energy
in Alaska. Fifty years ago, when Alaska's
constitution was written and we became a state,
Alaska's leaders had the vision and sensibility to
provide to the people of Alaska ownership of Alaska's
resources. At that time, and today, one of these
primary resources was and is Alaska's wild fish
stocks. So, my request to you today is to remember
the people of Alaska and Alaska's wild fish stocks as
you further deliberate actions within the state
regarding the siting of and funding support for new
hydroelectric projects in Alaska. I urge you not to
provide blind support and open-ended funding to any
and all projects, bad or good, cost effective or not,
in the name of renewable energy without consideration
of Alaska's wild fish stocks. Politics should not be
used to force unhealthy decisions on Alaska's economy
and resources.
In the Upper Lynn Canal and in Southeast Alaska we
have abundant choices for hydro power sites. The
current site for which funding is being heavily
lobbied by certain politicians and by Alaska Power &
Telephone is for the Connlley Lake Hydro Project
located in the sensitive salmon spawning grounds of
the Upper Chilkoot watershed above Chilkoot Lake.
Many people in our community are strongly opposed to a
hydro project in this location. AP&T's application to
[Federal Energy Regulatory Commission] FERC for this
project in June received opposition filings from
numerous organizations, including the Alaska
Department of Fish & Game and the National Marine
Fisheries Service. Recent studies by AP&T have
indicated that a more cost effective option for the
next hydro project in the Upper Lynn Canal to be
Shubee Lake near Skagway. Here no roads and dams have
to be built; here there is not the issue of impact to
salmon. Therefore, I urge you to proceed with care
and caution, delegating authority for funding and
decision making regarding renewable energy projects in
Alaska. We really need your leadership on this.
3:12:51 PM
SALLY McGUIRE related that she lives on the Chilkoot [near] the
site of the proposed dam. She encouraged the committee to drive
through the area, which she characterized as an area where it's
difficult to believe anyone would want to perform industrial
development. Furthermore, the area is the basis of tourism in
Haines, which is extremely important. She opined that any road
in that valley to some such development would be detrimental,
particularly to the bears that depend upon the salmon fishery.
Furthermore, she questioned how a road could be built through
all the salmon spawning beds in that area without impacting the
salmon. She then related her understanding that there are many
smaller scale hydro options in Haines that would fulfill its
needs, which she understood to be about 2 megawatts a day. The
Connelly Hydro Project is supposed to provide five to six times
the current needs of Haines. At the same time, smaller towns in
Southeast Alaska are desperate for help. Ms. McGuire explained
that AP&T is proposing to build a huge dam on the side of a
mountain, with the entire economy beneath. Furthermore, the dam
is in an earthquake zone as it sits above a complex of faults.
She urged the [legislature] not to allow the construction of the
dam.
3:15:37 PM
TIM JUNE related that he has followed renewable energy
technology and installation for the last 25 years. He noted
that he will provide the committee with copies of his testimony,
which includes a "comprehensive energy plan." He encouraged
everyone to think big as an energy plan is being developed
because it's probably the most important matter before the state
in the next 5-10 years. Although the state, he opined, is
currently benefitting from billions of dollars of new revenue
from increased oil taxes and the oil industry is reaping record
profits, many Alaskans are struggling with fuel heating and
electricity costs. Alaska's energy strategy must first include
a strong commitment to creating and using profits from the
state's nonrenewable resources in order to establish a
sustainable, multi-faceted, renewable energy infrastructure that
will last for the next 100 years. While the state recently
adopted energy programs such as the home weatherization program,
a comprehensive statewide strategy that will coordinate long-
and short-term solutions still hasn't been developed. Mr. June
emphasized that since energy switching usually takes 20-30 years
to accomplish, it's in Alaska's best interest to begin
immediately. He noted that currently, Oregon and Washington
already have 900 megawatts of wind power online. Although
Alaska has the highest wind resource in the nation, Alaska only
has 1 megawatt of wind power online.
3:19:10 PM
MR. JUNE then turned to solar power, noting that he and his wife
have obtained about 80 percent of their electricity from solar
power for 20 years in Southeast Alaska. He related that Germany
is the leader in solar power production; 8 percent of Germany's
power is from solar. Germany accomplishes this and it receives
less sunshine than Juneau. Mr. June stressed that because the
cost of energy is so high in Alaska, not much sun is necessary
to offset the price. He told the committee that Oregon State
University has an energy team that has developed wave
generators. The team has calculated that every three feet of
coast line in Oregon can produce enough wave energy, 50 kW, for
10 homes. Alaska has 44,000 miles of coastline, and therefore
he opined that Alaska has tremendous potential with wave energy.
3:20:50 PM
MR. JUNE, referring to his comprehensive energy plan, opined
that energy solutions have to be funded. In order to accomplish
the aforementioned, maximum return on the state's natural
resources has to be obtained to fund the state's next renewable
industry. For example, Norway has taken the same amount of oil
out of the ground in the same amount of time as Alaska.
However, Norway's permanent fund totals about 10 times that of
Alaska's permanent fund. Norway taxes its oil at 89 percent of
the gross. Alaska, on the other hand, spent two years arguing
whether to charge 20 or 21 percent of the net. Mr. June
encouraged the legislators to be bold and think big because the
funds are necessary to produce renewable systems for the future.
He then turned to public transportation, and predicted that
electric cars will come online shortly. Therefore, as capacity
is created, that capacity has to include the switch from gas
fueled cars to electric cars.
MR. JUNE expressed his pleasure with the introduction of HB 218,
and suggested that Alaska look to Washington and Oregon, states
who have had such departments for a number of years.
Furthermore, there should be an important cabinet-level position
for the Department of Energy. He encouraged the committees to
expand the weatherization and energy programs to include
schools, municipalities, and businesses. Energy efficiency is
the biggest bang for the buck and beats hydro, solar, wind,
coal, and oil power. He complimented the [legislature] in
getting the energy funds to Alaskans. However, Mr. June opined
that a golden opportunity is being missed with renewable
systems, for which he suggested creating a 30 percent rebate
program. He explained that currently, the federal government is
allowing individuals to have a 30 percent tax credit on
investments in renewable energy systems for their homes. Most
states match that grant. By Alaska not matching the grant, the
state is passing on millions of dollars of federal funds. In
Oregon, a $25,000 home solar system costs the homeowner $6,000
after the federal, state, and power company rebates.
Furthermore, a $25,000 solar system installed in a business
costs the business owner $4,000 after energy and tax credits.
He pointed out that these are systems that will be in place for
the next 50 years. If that path is chosen and the federal funds
leveraged, the state will move ahead.
3:24:12 PM
MR. JUNE then turned to small scale systems. He related that
North Carolina has made 500 wind anemometers to record yearly
data of wind availability. These wind anemometers are leased to
individuals for $100 deposit. He suggested that such a system
be set up with the schools in the state in order to compile a
database of micro wind maps. For an upfront investment of about
$300 for a recording wind anemometer, the state could be mapped
within five years to determine where to set up wind turbines.
MR. JUNE then pointed out that BP Exploration (Alaska) Inc.
builds solar panels. He suggested that the state take its
royalty share and trade the oil for BP's solar panels at a
greatly reduced rate. The solar panels could be made available
to Alaskans at a much reduced cost. The aforementioned would be
very helpful to the state's residents and businesses, he opined.
Furthermore, partnering with the state's Native corporations
would be helpful in terms of utilizing their ability to attract
and qualify for federal dollars for renewable energy solutions.
Mr. June then expressed the need to invest in developing
renewable energy curriculum for K-12 because it's the future of
those students. He also expressed the need to invest in
research and development through the university. Green power,
education, and jobs need to be fostered through the University
of Alaska, which could be a leader in the country. The state,
he opined, has so much to gain. Furthermore, Alaska is likely
the only state in the country that has the funds to immediately
address renewable energy in a big way. In conclusion, Mr. June
said: "We all know when the oil runs out the oil companies are
going to leave. We're going to be left with a flashlight and a
match; I just want us to have the best flashlight on the block."
CO-CHAIR McGUIRE, referring to Mr. June's suggestion for a 30
percent rebate, said that Alaska's challenge is that it doesn't
have a state income tax. She informed everyone that there is
legislation pending in committee for a production tax credit for
renewable energy investments. With regard to electric cars,
there is also legislation pertaining to them.
3:27:39 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAMRAS said that he applauded the initiatives
discussed, particularly investment in the university, but opined
that Mr. June's suggestions cherry pick data points to paint a
utopian society that's not affordable for a state that already
has a difficult time sustaining its budget. For instance, in
Germany there's a feed-in rate that generally attributes to a
rising cost of all kilowatts. He expressed hope that everyone
recognizes that different regions of the state are trying to
solve different problems and that solutions with price tags in
the hundreds of millions of dollars aren't feasible in a state
with an already strained budget. Moreover, the through put in
the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) is declining by at least
6 percent due to Alaska's aggressive taxation policies.
Norway's 89 percent tax rate is entirely different than Alaska's
net profits tax.
3:29:46 PM
MR. JUNE responded that he is simply trying to offer
possibilities and that the state is behind [with renewable
energy solutions]. With regard to where the funds will come
from, Mr. June reminded the committee that just a year ago the
state had an energy rebate that totaled about $780 million.
Although that was nice for the residents of the state, he
suggested that were those funds used to seed an energy fund to
develop the proposals he mentioned, the state would be further
along the road to energy independence. "We're pinching pennies,
but at the same time we have to be creative and responsible for
future generations," he remarked.
REPRESENTATIVE HARRIS thanked Mr. June for his ideas and
suggested that he speak with Mr. Haagenson. Representative
Harris then disagreed with the comments that the state isn't
doing anything comprehensive, adding that the legislature has
reviewed various possibilities over the past few years. The
legislature's review led to the direction of Mr. Haagenson's
position. He said that there is knowledge about the various
renewable energy sources in the state, but he pointed out that
any system/plan has to be economic and beneficial to people
throughout the state for many years.
MR. JUNE acknowledged that the legislature has made tremendous
gains in the area of renewable energy. Still, it's necessary to
think outside of the box, he remarked.
3:33:57 PM
LISA LANG, Member/Spokesperson, Reynolds Creek Hydroelectric
Project, Haida Corporation, informed the committee that the
Reynolds Creek project is being directed under Haida
Corporation, which recently partnered with AP&T. Haida
Corporation has invested private funds totaling nearly $4
million in this project. The project totals $17 million, of
which there is some state and federal funds. With regard to
hydro power, she suggested that everyone should know what
they're talking about because it's a sophisticated sort of
project. She noted that Haida Corporation went through the FERC
permitting process and is ready to go. She then related that
she is a fisherman who has a deep respect for the environment.
However, she said that she's also a realist. After reviewing
AEA's process last year, she went to the island to discuss how
to move forward. The area needs plans and financing for the 11
organizations on Prince of Wales Island. She related that the
community, the village, the corporation, and the city have
gotten the Reynolds Creek project to its current status.
3:36:36 PM
MS. LANG reminded committee members that hydro power is excluded
from the renewable energy legislation as it's no longer
considered a renewable energy source. Ms. Lang requested, on
behalf of Haida Corporation and Prince of Wales Island, that the
Reynolds Creek Hydroelectric Project be included specifically in
the renewable energy legislation. She expressed the desire to
have federal funding for the project and a match from the state,
especially after the federal government told her to go home to
the state for funding. She alluded to the logistics and costs
that face those living on Prince of Wales Island.
MS. LANG reiterated her respect for the environment, but
emphasized the need for economic development in communities
which requires energy. She characterized the situation as
critical because no matter how low the rates are, without
economic development communities [won't survive]. She then
noted that she has received support from the Alaska Federation
of Natives (AFN), U.S. Congressman Don Young, U.S. Senator Lisa
Murkowski, and various other organizations. Ms. Lang urged the
committees to take the message forward and provide communities
with the ability to plan for their future. She also urged the
committees to continue to support HB 152, the funds from which
have been put to good use.
3:40:37 PM
CO-CHAIR McGUIRE reminded everyone that the legislature has
unanimously supported a resolution to Congress requesting to
include hydro power in the definition of renewable energy.
3:40:54 PM
WARREN EDGLEY, Member, City Council, City & Borough of Wrangell,
relayed to the committees that the Minister of Energy for
British Columbia has announced that it has accumulated $404
million and will proceed with the Northern Transmission Line.
The aforementioned, he opined, is good news. Without the
Northern Transmission Line there is no opportunity for an Alaska
Canada Intertie. Without an Alaska Canada Intertie, one can't
rationally build a Southeast Intertie. Without a Southeast
Intertie there won't be any significant hydroelectric
development because that intertie and the connection to the
North American power grid provides a market for all the power
that can be generated. He told the committee that the City &
Borough of Wrangell joined the Highway 37 Coalition and has
discussed the development that will occur between Wrangell's
border and Highway 37 in Canada. Currently, the Canadians are
focused on building the Northern Transmission Line with the
knowledge that there will be taps on that line that go to the
West, which he opined is where the Alaska Canada Intertie comes
into play. Mr. Edgley related his belief that the Alaska Canada
Intertie is just part of the Southeast Intertie, which he
recalled has to be a regional transmission organization modeled
after BCTC or Bonneville. The responsibility of the intertie is
to dispatch, purchase, and market power. The desire, he
explained, is to form an organization like the Highway 37
Coalition in Alaska, a subject which has been discussed with
Alaska's Congressional delegation.
CO-CHAIR McGUIRE related [the legislature's] willingness to work
with the City & Borough of Wrangell in setting up the
aforementioned organization.
3:45:16 PM
ERNIE CHRISTIAN, Vice Mayor, City & Borough of Wrangell; Chair,
Energy Committee, explained that the City & Borough of Wrangell
is in the preliminary stage of the Alaska Canada Energy
Coalition, which is being modeled after the Highway 37
Coalition. He provided the committee with a brochure,
presentation, press release, and contact information for the
coalition. There are three goals of the Alaska Canada Energy
Coalition. Firstly, it would provide affordable energy for all
of Southeast and would be a catalyst to justify the Southeast
Intertie. He pointed out that without a market, a 30-70
megawatt facility won't be built. With regard to the Southeast
Intertie, Mr. Christian related that the Thomas Bay Power
Project has the possibility of producing 130 megawatts of power
between three different hydro projects. For perspective, he
told the committees that Snettisham Hydroelectric produces about
78 megawatts of power. Therefore, the Thomas Bay Project will
produce more megawatts than most of Southeast will use. If the
Thomas Bay Project is going to be constructed and funded, one
must review the cost benefit ratio. He noted that it would
likely take two to three years to connect the [Thomas Bay
Project] to the Northwest Transmission Line.
MR. CHRISTIAN reminded the committees that back in 2006 $3.2
million was appropriated by the legislature and was approved by
Governor Murkowski. Those funds were to study, develop, and
permit the line. However, some of those funds were
reappropriated later on. Although some may say this project is
premature, Mr. Christian opined that if work doesn't begin, it
will never happen. He pointed out that the Lake Dorothy Project
took 11 years to bear fruit. Therefore, the Alaska Canada
Energy Coalition sent out over 200 e-mails to various entities
from which over 40 responded and wanted to join.
MR. CHRISTIAN continued with the other two goals of the Alaska
Canada Energy Coalition. He related that the project would
bring short-term and long-term well paying jobs to Southeast and
would promote economic develop in Southeast. Furthermore, this
project would provide up to 3,000 megawatts of power to the
green North American grid. [The Southeast Intertie] has the
capability of producing up to 3,000 megawatts of developable
power. He noted that there is a report available regarding the
energy that's available in Southeast Alaska, particularly
hydroelectric energy. The report doesn't address the other
forms of nonrenewable energy that could be produced. He noted
that within Wrangell there are six potential hydro projects and
possible geothermal projects that could be developed. At this
point there's no incentive to develop the aforementioned hydro
power because there's no market for it. Therefore, the Alaska
Canada Energy Coalition, with a tiered membership, is a step
forward, he remarked. He expressed hope that by January or
February, the coalition will come before the legislature.
3:50:07 PM
ROB GOLDBERG related his belief that establishing a Department
of Energy is critical for Alaska's future. Statewide renewable
energy should be used as much as possible. He mentioned his
excitement with regard to the Chakachamna Lake Project, which
seems to be a project that could provide power from Homer to
Fairbanks. He indicated his support of the state helping [to
fund] the Chakachamna Lake Project. With regard to HB 219 that
addresses the criteria for funding renewable energy projects,
Mr. Goldberg opined that one must consider not only the power
produced by the projects but also the habitat and community
issues.
MR. GOLDBERG told the committee that he has been a planning
commissioner in Haines for the past seven years. As a planning
commissioner, he is charged with finding creative solutions to
the problems facing the community. Ideally, those solutions
should promote harmony and the best long-term interests of the
community, he opined. Recently, the communities of Skagway and
Haines have faced a problem in the winter months when folks use
electric heaters to augment their heat during very cold spells.
However, in such situations the Goat Lake Hydro Project isn't
capable of providing the power for both communities, and thus
AP&T has to use its diesel generators to carry that load. The
aforementioned has caused AP&T to review an alternative storage
hydro project to run in the winter months in order to avoid the
use of diesel. Since 1981, the Connelly Lake Hydro Project in
the Upper Chilkoot has been considered. Due to the opposition
to this project, Mr. Goldberg related that he took it upon
himself to find a creative solution and avoid another community
battle in Haines. None of the sites he reviewed had anywhere
near the power potential of Connelly Lake until he received a
newer USGS map which showed a mile-long 300 feet lake, Shubee
Lake, that wasn't noted on an older map. He estimated that
Shubee Lake has 78,000 acre-feet of water in it, which offers
tremendous hydro potential.
3:54:22 PM
MR. GOLDBERG informed the committee that he ran some
calculations and provided his findings to AP&T. He told the
committee that he has been working with the local manager [of
AP&T] regarding ways to develop the Shubee Lake hydro site most
efficiently. Although AP&T is still considering the Connelly
Lake site strongly, Mr. Goldberg expressed concern with the
Connelly Lake site because the salmon habitat in the Upper
Chilkoot is some of the most productive in all of Southeast
Alaska. The proposal for Connelly Lake includes 10 miles of
road and a 575 foot long dam, which would require about 60,000
cubic yards of material to be brought in or extracted on site.
"I don't see how these facilities can be built without
disturbing the salmon habitat," he opined. He explained that
there have been studies that show turbidity in a sockeye salmon
lake causes the zooplankton levels to decrease, such a decrease
means that there's less for the young salmon to feed on and the
salmon run is lost. He related that years ago there was a
disturbance in the Chilkoot when a road was put in and a clear
cut was done. Some years later, there was a big crash in the
Chilkoot salmon run. Since then, the road has mostly been
consumed by the Chilkoot and the salmon runs are returning. Mr.
Goldberg expressed his excitement to discover the Shubee Lake
site, which he didn't believe had any habitat issues and doesn't
require a road or dam to be built. The Shubee Lake site would
be a siphon project, much like AP&T's Goat Lake Project. He
expressed hope that AP&T would put forth effort in trying to
develop the Shubee Lake site. Mr. Goldberg, turning to the
legislation before the committees, stated his hope that habitat
and community issues will be considered along with the power
potential of proposed sites. He offered to provide his
comparative analysis of the Connelly Lake and Shubee Lake sites.
3:57:31 PM
DUFF MITCHELL, Director, Cascade Creek, LLC, began by
highlighting that the state has a wide variety of energy
sources, terrain, and needs. He suggested that Southeast Alaska
has the most diversity between the haves and the have nots. For
instance, there are urban communities that received subsidies in
the past that now have $.06 wholesale hydro power rates while 40
miles away a Native village is using expensive diesel. Mr.
Mitchell thanked the legislature for its support for hydro power
as the legislative resolutions sent a loud message to Congress
that Alaska is serious about renewable energy. The state's goal
of 50 percent renewable energy by 2025 is an aggressive goal
that he likes.
4:00:08 PM
MR. MITCHELL, in response to Representative Johansen, explained
that Cascade Creek, LLC, is a member of the Alaska Independent
Power Producers Association, which consists of nine Alaskan
companies developing power, primarily renewable power. He
clarified that he is only testifying on behalf of Cascade Creek,
LLC, not the association. Returning to his testimony, Mr.
Mitchell informed the committee that Cascade Creek is energy
agnostic, although it's in the renewable side. Cascade Creek
recognizes Alaska's diversity and that the bullet pipeline is
essential for the Railbelt. He submitted that the AK-BC
Intertie is the bullet line for Southeast Alaska. Mr. Mitchell
said that although he appreciates what's happening in the
villages and the need to take care of Alaskans first, he opined
that building small hydro power plants with a cost of $.30-$.40
[per kWh] doesn't make sense when other communities pay $.06-
$.08 per kWh. In order to achieve economies of scale, larger
hydro power resources need to be developed in an environmentally
sound manner. The AK-BC Intertie provides a market for full
utilization of its hydro power resources and allows excess
kilowatts to be put in the North American market. The
aforementioned could provide a small help to America and sending
the energy through the AK-BC Intertie would spread the
maintenance and overhead costs over a larger amount of energy.
Therefore, the AK-BC Intertie would economically manage the risk
for the Southeast Alaska Intertie. Furthermore, many years ago
Public Law 106.511 authorizing $384 million, with a 20 percent
state match, for the Southeast Alaska Intertie was passed. Mr.
Mitchell submitted that there has never been a better time to
approach Congress for infrastructure funds that would allow
residents of Southeast Alaska to have cheap energy. The legacy,
he opined, is valuable, particularly considering the longevity
of hydro power plants. Mr. Mitchell then suggested that the
state use the windfall it received when oil was $140 a barrel to
construct renewable energy systems on the infrastructure
[provided by the aforementioned funds]. The U.S. Department of
Energy predicts that by 2015 oil will be $112 per barrel, which
he opined is a conservative estimate.
4:04:37 PM
MR. MITCHELL reminded the committees that Juneau was one of the
first communities to use hydro power. He highlighted Treadwell
mine's heated swimming pool and the 18-mile electrical line run
from Douglas to Mendenhall Glacier in 1914 to build Nugget
Creek. Mr. Mitchell said that [Southeast] Alaska is blessed in
the state's natural resource to create an industry, perhaps
green collar jobs, and other industries. He then returned to
the AK-BC Intertie, which is only 65 miles from Wrangell at this
point. In the middle of those 65 miles is a hydro power plant,
and therefore only about 26.8 miles to the border and 35 miles
to this other hydro power plant. In closing, Mr. Mitchell
thanked the committees for listening and expressed hope that
they come back with a plan. He noted that Alaska is one of the
last states not doing net metering, which he recognized has
positives and negatives. Alaska is also one of the last states
with a renewable portfolio standard. He opined that a fourth
renewable portfolio standard isn't necessary and the 50 percent
target by 2025 is good. He said he looked to the leaders of the
state to lay down the foundation for energy.
4:09:13 PM
REPRESENTATIVE DAHLSTROM inquired as to who owns Cascade Creek.
MR. MITCHELL answered that Cascade Creek is a private company
that's owned by Kake Tribal, Tollhouse Energy - a company out of
Bellingham that owns about 80 percent, an anesthesiologist in
Anchorage, as well as an assortment of smaller investors. He
noted that the majority of the directors of Cascade Creek are
Alaskans.
4:10:13 PM
STEPHANIE SCOTT, Haines Borough Energy and Sustainability
Coordinator, Haines Borough Energy and Sustainability
Commission, City & Borough of Haines, explained that the Haines
Borough Energy and Sustainability Commission is a nine-member
commission that was authorized by the Haines Borough Assembly
about a year ago. The notion was that the commission would
promote energy conservation and efficiency. "We take very
seriously the idea that the least expensive unit of energy is
the one that you don't use," she related. The commission, she
further explained, is a cooperation of tribal organizations,
local utilities, the Haines Borough's planning commission, an
assembly member, and members at large. The commission has taken
on the task of helping the City & Borough of Haines reduce its
energy consumption by 5-7 percent. One of the things that AEA
promotes is that conservation is the first fuel, which is
something that everyone can do now. She provided the committees
with a compilation of the commission's achievements, including
the fact that Haines led the region in terms of those
participating in the Home Energy Rebate Program. She noted that
the commission has implemented a weekly radio show, Energy Talk,
during which there is discussion about things that can be
utilized in one's own home. She pointed out that the unnumbered
work draft discusses initiating and supporting a program to
educate state residents regarding the benefits of energy
efficiency and conservation. The aforementioned is so important
and must be an ongoing effort, she opined.
4:15:32 PM
REPRESENTATIVE RAMRAS inquired as whether Ms. Scott would
support energy conservation being a mandatory curriculum in
Alaska's schools.
MS. SCOTT replied yes. She then highlighted that Haines has
looked into replacing its street lights with LED lights.
However, it was discovered that 90 percent of Haines' 250-watt
street lights are on state-owned and maintained roads and DOT&PF
won't allow the installation of LED street lights on those
state-owned and maintained roads. The DOT&PF says LED lights
aren't allowed because they don't meet a certain standard of
illumination. She explained that LED lights can't be measured
by the same standards as incandescent or high-pressured sodium
lights, and therefore there's a disconnect between the
measurement standards and LED lights. She pointed out that she
found it curious, though, that the [city and borough] can remove
lights from state-owned and maintained roads. In response to
Representative Dahlstrom, Ms. Scott agreed to provide the
committees with the information she has on the matter of LED
street lights.
4:17:34 PM
CO-CHAIR McGUIRE remarked that she would work with Ms. Scott on
[LED lights] as Anchorage is reviewing that possibility as well.
Co-Chair McGuire thanked everyone for their hospitality and
announced that those who have not yet testified should submit
their testimony in writing as the committees must adjourn.
[HB 218 and HB 219 were held over.]
4:17:58 PM
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the committee, the joint
meeting of the House and Senate Special Committees on Energy and
Senate Resources Standing Committee was adjourned at 4:18 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Draft_Energy_Policy_Bill[1].pdf |
HENE 8/26/2009 5:00:00 PM HENE 9/16/2009 1:30:00 PM |
|
| Haines Agenda.pdf |
HENE 9/16/2009 1:30:00 PM |
|
| HB0218A.PDF |
HENE 6/17/2009 5:00:00 PM HENE 8/26/2009 5:00:00 PM HENE 9/16/2009 1:30:00 PM |
HB 218 |
| HB0219A.PDF |
HENE 6/17/2009 5:00:00 PM HENE 8/24/2009 1:00:00 PM HENE 8/26/2009 5:00:00 PM HENE 9/16/2009 1:30:00 PM |
HB 219 |
| HB218 - Sectional on Letterhead.pdf |
HENE 9/16/2009 1:30:00 PM |
HB 218 |
| HB219 - Sectional on Letterhead.pdf |
HENE 9/16/2009 1:30:00 PM |
HB 219 |
| Legislative Presentation to the Joint Committees 2009 Haines.ppt |
HENE 9/16/2009 1:30:00 PM |