Alaska’s energy anxiety

Rachel White; David L. Nicholls; Allen M. Brackley; Robert Deering

Treesearch

Alaska’s energy anxiety

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Rachel White, David L. Nicholls, Allen M. Brackley, Robert Deering

Year:

2015

Type:

Science Update

Station:

Pacific Northwest Research Station

Source:

Science Update 22. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 15 p.

Download (PDF 11.61 MB)

Download (PDF 11.61 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/49702.pdf

Abstract

A severe climate, high transportation costs, and limited infrastructure have led to high energy costs in many places in Alaska, particularly in remote villages. Some communities are seeking opportunities to convert oil and electrical heat to a renewable energy source such as woody biomass. There are different types of wood energy appliances and fuel sources, and finding the right fit requires assessing local needs and tailoring the technology to the community. There are still serious barriers to adopting new energy technologies in Alaska. However, some projects have been successful and can serve as models for other communities.

Citation

White, Rachel; Nicholls, David; Brackley, Allen; Deering, Robert. 2015. Alaska’s energy anxiety. Science Update 22. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 15 p.