The Alaska Energy Authority published a report this week that sets a goal of producing 50% of the state's electricity from renewable sources by 2025.

The report, titled Alaska Energy--A First Step Towards Energy Independence, identifies and prioritizes energy projects and funding sources. It is not a detailed plan of action, but a collection of options for Alaska communities to develop their own renewable resources, incliuding hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, ocean and solar power.

Alaska has abundant resources, but developing them is difficult, because of low usage levels and communities that are separated by long distances. However, if the state can build an 800 mile oil pipeline and a 1,700 mile natural gas pipeline, it should be able to construct transmission lines for renewably sourced electricity as well.

Alaska Governor Sarah Palin said "While lower crude oil prices are reducing the costs of energy today, we must remain committed to achieving energy security for our future economic well-being."

On January 16, the state's Energy Coordinator Steve Haagenson released a list of 77 projects recommended for funding from Alaska's $100 million renewable energy fund.



Website: http://www.akenergyauthority.org/alaska_energy.html