to the area’s energy supplies — and will be most productive in the coldest conditions, when demand is highest. The project, Little Mount Susitna Wind, could have met 20% of the city’s electric demand during January’s extreme cold snap, according to developers.
Clean energy jobs include jobs related to renewable energy, grid storage solutions, manufacturing, and electric transmission and distribution upgrades. They require linemen, construction workers, and electricians; engineers, utility operators, project managers and others. Much of this workforce already exists in Alaska, and the skills are highly transferable. These are good-paying jobs that can help keep our young people in Alaska.
These successes did not come without planning and investment. Meaningful growth in the clean energy industry in Alaska will require further investment - and right now, there are significant federal funds available.