The Susitna River below the proposed Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project on the Susitna River north west of Talkeetna. The dam site is at mile 184 of the Susitna River., at a 2024 cost of $7.2 billion, the Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project is once again being considered as a solution to Alaska’s energy challenges.
This massive 705-ft tall, 42-mile long river-stopping reservoir would be located 87 miles north of Talkeetna on the Susitna River, disrupting the 15th largest river in the U.S. and home to the 4th largest king salmon population in Alaska. In an era where largeto reverse the damage they’ve caused to rivers and ecosystems, considering the construction of a dam of this magnitude in order to “combat climate change” is illogical.
While Dyok claims that hydro projects are carbon-neutral and benefit the environment, dams are not clean energy sources. Reservoirs emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas, due to the decomposition of organic matter in reservoirs. This would significantly offset any potential carbon emissions reductions claimed by the project.
As Alaska moves forward navigating complicated energy issues, it’s imperative to conduct comprehensive environmental assessments, engage dialogue and amplify community concerns, and explore alternative approaches that prioritize less expensive, risky and harmful pathways to decarbonization.
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