SB 33-RENEWABLE ENERGY GRANT FUND  3:31:20 PM CO-CHAIR BISHOP announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 33 "An Act relating to the renewable energy grant fund and recommendation program; and providing for an effective date." He noted that this was the second hearing. The intention was to hear public testimony and look to the will of the committee. 3:31:43 PM CO-CHAIR BISHOP opened public testimony on SB 33. 3:32:00 PM DOUG WOODBY, 350 Juneau, Climate Action for Alaska, Juneau, Alaska, stated support for SB 33. He emphasized the importance of extending the Renewable Energy Grant Fund for at least 10 years and appropriating at least $50 million annually. Rural communities in particular will benefit. The bill is important for the rapid transition to renewable energy that's needed to have sustainable communities in Alaska. 3:32:58 PM MATTHEW JACKSON, Climate Program Manager, Southeast Alaska Conservation Council (SEAAC), Sitka, Alaska, testified in support of SB 33. He stated that he also works closely with the Alaska Climate Alliance and recently submitted a petition to the committee with 230 signatures from people statewide who support the Renewable Energy Grant Fund. He echoed Mr. Woodby's sentiments that this fund has been wildly successful. It has funded more than 100 projects that are operational and 44 more under development. It keeps communities from burning multiple millions of gallons of diesel every year. This saves multiple millions of dollars and keeps millions of tons of carbon dioxide from being released into the air. He urged the committee to not only pass SB 33, but also to fund it with $50 million during the budget process this year. The Renewable Energy Grant Fund is the most effective means of helping communities transition to renewable energy. 3:35:19 PM CO-CHAIR BISHOP closed public testimony on SB 33, and reviewed the fiscal note. Department: Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development Appropriation: Alaska Energy Authority Allocation: Statewide Project Development, Alternative Energy and Efficiency OMB Component Number: 2888 Fund Source (Operating Only): 1210 Renewable Energy (DGF) - $1.4 million/year through FY29. SB33 extends the effective date of the Renewable Energy Grant Fund and recommendation program to June 30, 2033. CO-CHAIR BISHOP found no questions or comments and solicited the will of the committee. 3:36:22 PM CO-CHAIR GIESSEL moved to report SB 33, work order 33-LS0235\A, from committee with individual recommendations and attached fiscal note(s). CO-CHAIR BISHOP found no objection and SB 33 was reported from the Senate Resources Standing Committee.