Alaska Powerline

What if we told you that there is a heat pump in development that will work in -31 F temperatures? Or would you believe that an eco-friendly insulation is being made from spruce trees that have been damaged by the spruce bark beetle? Affordable, reliable energy in Alaska is difficult to achieve. Through the work of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory Alaska campus, technological developments have improved energy efficiency in Alaska. Regional Director Bruno Grunau gives our listeners a glance into the work of the Lab in science, technology, analysis and applications that are changing the energy landscape in Alaska and the rest of the United States.

In this episode, Clay Koplin of Cordova Electric Cooperative discusses how Alaska's small communities, like Cordova, can harness renewable energy and digital infrastructure to support data centers in the AI era. He highlights the rising demand for power and the potential of local microgrids, emphasizing how Cordova's approach to energy could transform Alaska into a digital powerhouse. Koplin envisions a future where Alaska's renewable resources sustain data-driven industries while decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. He also underscores the cooperative’s commitment to reducing diesel dependence and scaling renewable power, with the support of state, federal and industry partnerships.

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers was founded to combat the high rate of lineman deaths on the job. Today, IBEW still focuses on safety as it trains future craftsmen in electrical careers. George McGuan, business representative of IBEW Local 1547 in Anchorage, discusses the process of learning the trade, financial compensation and the need for more electric workers in the industry.

Dave Messier, Infrastructure Division Director for Tanana Chiefs Conference, discusses how his team is working to reduce the cost of energy for tribal villages. Most of Tanana’s members rely on diesel generators to generate power for their microgrids. Integrating solar PV battery systems with the diesel generators has been successful in providing more reliable power in these communities. However, challenges abound to get these systems on line. How are these systems being paid for, and what else is slowing construction? Hear Dave’s thoughts on this podcast episode.

Electric utility rates fluctuate, which is often confusing. Sarah Lambe, CFO at Homer Electric Association, discusses the process of creating electric utility rates, the factors that change rates and how rates affect the entire electric system.

INN Electric Cooperative provides safe and reliable hydropower to three remote Alaskan villages; however, delivering the electricity to the meters comes with unique challenges since its grid isn’t connected to a larger transmission system. How does the small co-op deal with harsh winters, remote living, and the high cost of electricity production? General Manager George Hornberger explains how the power cooperative keeps achieving its electricity goals on this podcast episode.

Safety is a top priority in the electric industry. That’s why Frank Adams, safety manager for Matanuska Electric Association, continually reviews policy procedures, accesses risks and ensures MEA is meeting compliance standards. But power safety is not only about lineworkers. The general public also needs to know how to respond to the dangers of electricity. On this podcast, Frank discusses industry advancements that have improved safety over the years and best practices for the public when a faced with a dangerous situation involving electricity.

With rising pressures to diversify generation and deploy renewable energy sources, balancing the grid and integrating new technologies has proved challenging. Some resources are dispatchable, while others aren’t. The cost to consumers must also be taken into consideration. Dustin Highers, vice president of corporate programs at Chugach Electric Association, discusses the progress needed to integrate variable energy sources and achieve a clean energy future.

Will Chaney, CEO and General Manager of Nushagak Cooperative, talks about the Nuyakuk River Hydroelectric Project, a proposed run of a river hydroelectric facility that will generate up to 12 MWs of electricity in an area long dependent on diesel fuel for power. As part of the project, electricity and optical fiber would be provided to the communities of Dillingham, Aleknagik, Koliganek, New Stuyahok, Ekwok and Levelock. Will talks about where the project is, the co-op’s goals, and the potential future of power in the Bristol Bay region.

The Alaska Energy Authority’s mission is to “reduce the cost of energy in Alaska.” Executive Director Curtis Thayer tells us how the energy office diversifies and maintains power sources in both urban and rural communities. The office has also received $206.5 million grant to update transmission lines, purchase batteries, and provide much needed redundancy in the Railbelt power system.

Terri Harper, CFO at INN Electric Cooperative, discusses the ins and outs of the Power Cost Equalization Program. PCE has been making electricity affordable for rural Alaskans for decades. However, the reporting can seem overwhelming at times. Why is the program so important, and how can cooperatives streamline their reporting efforts?

The similarities between Iceland’s and Alaska’s power grids are striking. What can Alaska learn from Iceland’s successful energy transition to renewables? Gwen Holdmann, associate vice chancellor for research at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, shares her thoughts and reminds our listeners to look at not just the end results, but also the journey Iceland took to reach a 100% renewable energy market.

In this episode, Director Erin Whitney provides an overview of the Arctic Energy Office and informs our listeners about the new Arctic Energy Ambassador program. The ambassadors will focus on Alaska's regional priorities and help move those priorities to fruition through the DOE. Only twelve ambassadors will be selected. Deadline to apply is November 22.

Joe Waggoner, of Golden Valley Electric Association, has been a journeyman lineman for 16 years. He discusses the education and training requirements for the job and gives our listeners a peek into the daily and exciting life of Alaska’s linemen.

Relying on diesel energy is costly, logistically difficult, and unsustainable in the Arctic Circle. Tom Atkinson, general manager and CEO of Kotzebue Electric Association, discusses how Kotzebue is utilizing renewable energy sources to power its isolated and remote service area.

Manny Lopez, Land Services Manager, discusses how Matanuska Electric Association works hard to keep power lines safe and reliable year after year. Issues surrounding rights of way can be complex, but tree trimming and maintenance is vital for dependable electricity.

Alec Mesdag, president and CEO of Alaska Electric Light and Power, discusses how electric companies can encourage and support their customers' electric vehicle adoption through lowering charging rates during certain hours and providing charging equipment at homes.

Bill Stamm, CEO of Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, discusses the complexities of keeping the lights on in rural Alaska. While the cooperative has integrated some renewable technologies into their system, the need for diesel powered energy will remain in place for years to come.

Brian Hickey, Executive Director of Railbelt Regional Coordination, discusses the history of the Railbelt grid, the need for an upgrade, and the benefits of enhancing the system.

In rural Alaska, reliable electricity is key. Travis Million, CEO at Copper Valley Electric Association, discusses how micronuclear technology may provide affordable, reliable and clean electricity to remote areas of Alaska.