Tuesday, May 8 2012 3:05PM
In response to the high costs paid by those living in rural parts of Alaska, the state's renewable energy program is introducing alternative energy sources. Alaska Dispatch reports wind projects will help lower the cost of energy in a number of villages including Kwigillingok, Yup'ik and Igkurak.
In response to the high costs paid by those living in rural parts of Alaska, the state's renewable energy program is introducing alternative energy sources. Alaska Dispatch reports wind projects will help lower the cost of energy in a number of villages including Kwigillingok, Yup'ik and Igkurak.
The $10 million project is partially funded by Alaska's renewable energy program, while another state program will provide the rest. The program was initiated in 2008 when high oil prices began to hinder residents' abilities to afford the cost of heating their homes. Other alternative forms of energy, including hydropower, have placed Alaska in the top 10 states for renewable energy.
Twenty communities currently depend on turbines to generate wind energy, according to the Renewable Energy Alaska Project, but that number is expected to triple in coming months. Eleven wind turbines are scheduled to be installed, and are expected to generate 17.6 megawatts of energy, providing around 6,000 homes with power.
While the increased amount of renewable energy will be helpful, recent cuts to the federal renewable energy program has many questioning if the addition will be a long-term solution.
For further information, check out this source:
Alaska Dispatch