Each spring, I research the Chugach Electric Association board candidates.
This year is especially problematic due to misinformation about CEA’s progress toward its clean energy goals. I’m grateful to the Northern Journal and ADN for their extensive survey.
While all candidates support decarbonization and renewables, the issue is how fast they can be implemented without dramatically increasing consumers’ costs.
Another wrinkle is legislation in Juneau (HB 121 and SB 101) which would impose an annual fine of $20 per megawatt-hour for each MW below the goal of 80% renewables by 2040. This legislation, with its Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS), is unreasonable because of the fine and 80% goal by 2040.
But the Alaska Center’s recommended candidates promote this.
I learned this about CEA’s power initiatives: 1. The Dixon Diversion project could increase Bradley Lake’s production by 50%; 2. Complex transmission upgrades must occur before integration of renewable systems; 3. Big renewable projects across Cook Inlet are being studied; 4. CEA owns two-thirds of the Beluga field, which supplies 50% of our power and will continue for some years even after Hilcorp’s long-term contract ends.
I’m for candidates with realistic goals for clean energy: Authier, Chastain and Hollis.
— Dianne Holmes
Anchorage
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