Alaska Looks to Hydropower and Geothermal to Diversify Energy Sources

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In an opinion piece, a bipartisan group of former Alaska lawmakers argue that the state should focus on developing hydropower and geothermal energy projects to diversify its energy mix, lower costs, and strengthen the grid. They highlight successful hydropower projects in Juneau, Cordova, and Kodiak, as well as Alaska's significant untapped geothermal potential, as opportunities to reduce reliance on imported natural gas and diesel fuel.

Why it matters

As energy costs rise and fuel markets become more uncertain, diversifying Alaska's energy sources with local, renewable resources like hydropower and geothermal can help stabilize long-term power costs for businesses and households. Developing these projects also builds grid resilience and reduces the state's carbon footprint.

The details

The authors point to recent moves by Chugach Electric Association to investigate four new hydropower projects as an example of the progress that can be made when local resources and available federal funding align. They also highlight successful hydropower systems in Juneau, Cordova, and Kodiak that have displaced millions of gallons of diesel fuel and stabilized energy costs. Additionally, the authors note that Alaska has far more hydropower potential, with hundreds of viable sites identified across the state. On the geothermal front, the authors say Alaska's location on the Pacific Ring of Fire and 97 known thermal springs give it some of the strongest geothermal potential in the U.S. They argue that with the state's expertise in drilling and cold-climate construction, Alaska is well-positioned to adapt emerging geothermal technologies to its own energy needs.

• Chugach Electric Association has filed early permit applications to investigate four hydropower projects, targeting the Dec. 31, 2033 deadline to begin construction to be eligible for remaining federal incentives.
• Recent breakthroughs in enhanced geothermal technology, including a new well in Utah capable of producing gigawatts of heat, show how rapidly this field is moving.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The authors note that Chugach Electric Association has filed early permit applications to investigate four hydropower projects, targeting the Dec. 31, 2033 deadline to begin construction to be eligible for remaining federal incentives.