Alaska’s renewable energy generation has barely budged over the last decade, creeping up by a mere 2%. This sluggish growth places the state at a disappointing 44th in the nation when it comes to harnessing the power of the sun, wind, and geothermal sources. According to the newly released “Renewables on the Rise 2024” report by the Alaska Environment Research & Policy Center, only about 2.6% of retail electricity in Alaska comes from these renewable sources. That’s enough to power just over 14,000 homes. In stark contrast, the national average has surged to 16%, showcasing the urgency for Alaska to catch up.
This analysis arrives at a critical juncture for the state, especially as concerns about a looming natural gas shortage loom large. The prospect of building a new coal plant raises eyebrows and questions about the state’s energy future. Dyani Chapman, the State Director of Alaska Environment, emphasizes the pressing need for a sustainable energy system. “We have a lot of reasons to develop a truly sustainable and resilient energy system in Alaska, and now is the time to dive in,” she states. With ratepayers poised to invest in new infrastructure, the choice is clear: prioritize energy sources that are renewable and beneficial for future generations.
Despite the lackluster figures, there is some silver lining. Electric vehicle registrations have skyrocketed by over 5,000% in the last decade. This surge is bolstered by the rise of EV charging infrastructure, which has expanded from a solitary charging port in 2014 to 124 by the end of 2023. Additionally, grid-connected solar energy is now providing power to the equivalent of 2,191 homes—an impressive leap from virtually zero a decade ago. Alaska even boasts the 12th largest battery energy storage capacity in the nation, which is a promising sign of potential growth.
Nevertheless, the bulk of Alaska’s clean energy potential remains untapped. The report suggests that state and local governments should set ambitious clean energy goals and leverage federal resources to achieve them. Lawmakers must ensure that utility policies adequately compensate investors in clean energy technologies while simplifying the permitting and interconnection processes. It’s high time for Alaska to cut energy waste and expand efficiency programs that can make a tangible difference.
The national landscape is shifting rapidly, with the U.S. producing over three times as much renewable electricity from solar and wind in 2022 compared to 2013. The “Renewables on the Rise 2024” dashboard illustrates this growth across six key clean energy technologies, including battery storage and electric vehicles. Chapman captures the essence of the moment succinctly, noting, “This report offers a timely reminder that we have an immense, largely untapped opportunity when it comes to clean energy here in Alaska.”
Alaska stands on the brink of transformation. With federal tax credits, grants, and rebate programs ripe for the taking, the state has a unique opportunity to reshape its energy future. The path is clear, but it will require collective action and a willingness to embrace the abundant resources that Alaska has to offer.
