If you read the rest of the Denali Commission e-newsletter, you have already heard about the great success of our first Alternative-Renewable Energy request for proposals with Alaska Energy Authority (AEA).  The Commission funding was enough for 11 preconstruction projects across the State and four construction projects, running the gamut of resources: wind, hydro, biomass and geothermal.   The State of Alaska funding will be applied to additional projects on the railbelt or within the Four Dam Power Pool areas.   For a complete list of projects and a map, check here.  We are excited that some construction activities may actually be able to take place this year!

It is hard to keep up with all the energy planning and activities happening around the State this summer.   Many regions have already drafted their own borough- or area-wide energy plans, while work continues at AEA to draft a State-wide plan.   Coordination between these groups will be critical in creating cohesive plans.   In the meantime, AEA and the Commission are beginning work on a second RFP for alternative energy projects later this fall or summer.  The State committed $50 million for alternative-renewable projects this state fiscal year, and the procedures and planning for that work effort have begun.

It remains a volatile and exciting year in the energy business. Don't forget to save the date for the next Rural Energy Conference, planned for September 16th through 18th in Girdwood this year.