Renewable energy in rural Alaska: two case studies and their implications
Keyword
Electric power productionRenewable energy sources
Wind power plants
Geothermal power plants
Electric power distribution
Remote area power supply systems
Hybrid power systems
Rural electrification
Electrification
Electric utilitiesAlaskaHistoryElectricity costs
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"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 iiiDescription
Thesis (M.A.) University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2009Table 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
2009-08Type
ThesisCollections
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