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    Renewable energy in rural Alaska: two case studies and their implications

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    Logan_J_2009.pdf
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    Author
    Logan, Jesse L.
    Keyword
    Electric power production
    Renewable energy sources
    Wind power plants
    Geothermal power plants
    Electric power distribution
    Remote area power supply systems
    Hybrid power systems
    Rural electrification
    Electrification
    Electric utilities
    Alaska
    History
    Electricity costs
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    URI
    http://hdl.handle.net/11122/12790
    Abstract
    "This thesis argues that the costs of electricity in rural Alaska are ecological, economic, and social, and asks whether or not renewable energy can reduce these costs. Two case studies are examined: a wind-diesel hybrid system in Kotzebue, Alaska, and an Organic Rankine cycle geothermal system in Chena Hot Springs, Alaska. In both cases it is found that when compared to the status quo (fossil fuel generated electricity), renewable energy technologies have reduced these costs. Historically, the funding for energy projects in Alaska has shifted from private enterprise investment to state and federal support. This is important in the debate regarding funding for a transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. The Power Equalization Program is also examined and found to be a paradoxical subsidy that provides economic relief but does not solve the problem of high electricity costs and may act as a disincentive to the deployment of renewables"--Leaf iii
    Description
    Thesis (M.A.) University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2009
    Table of Contents
    1. Introduction -- 2. The cost of electricity -- 3. Electrifying Alaska -- 4. The power cost equalization program -- 5. Wind-diesel hybrid in Kotzebue -- 6. Geothermal at Chena Hot Springs -- 7. Analysis of the cases -- 8. Conclusions -- References.
    Date
    2009-08
    Type
    Thesis
    Collections
    College of Liberal Arts

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