Project Titles:

• Bettles Renewable Energy Components (FFS #R7LA)
• Bettles Bunkhouse Energy Components (FFS #R7LB)

State: Alaska

Project Description: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will fund the implementation of renewable and alternative energy features, such as solar electricity and solar hot water, at the Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge residence and bunkhouse in Bettles, Alaska. Bettles is a small village, located in Alaska’s Interior, where extended periods with temperatures of about 40 degrees below zero are common in winter. Energy costs in Bettles are among the highest in the nation, with heating oil at about $7.00 per gallon and electricity close to $1.00 per kilowatt hour.

The bunkhouse and residence support critical resource management, monitoring, visitor services, and maintenance programs at the Kanuti Refuge as well as National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and State of Alaska programs. These renewable energy projects will help the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies continue to meet essential field responsibilities, despite rising energy costs.

For additional information, please contact:
Larry Bell; (907) 786-3309; larry_bell@fws.gov
Bruce Woods; (907) 786-3309; bruce_woods@fws.gov

Photos:

The newly constructed Bettles Bunkhouse was designed to be energy efficient. ARRA funds will be used to add renewable and alternative energy features.

Originally posted 08/10/2009