CIRI has the capacity to expand to a total of 33 turbines with a generation capacity of 52.8 MW. The original project included the construction of transmission facilities capable of interconnecting the full generation capacity of all 33 wind turbines. The transmission system was made possible by grant funding from the State of Alaska for the public benefit and to help the State reach its renewable energy goal.
Additional phases would share existing infrastructure and operating personnel with the first phase of the project. The combination of existing infrastructure and attractive financing options also means the cost of power could be lower than Southcentral Alaska utilities can achieve with natural gas. CIRI believes additional wind turbines would benefit both the utilities and their ratepayers. CIRI welcomes the opportunity to expand its project and looks forward to working with the utilities on an agreement to purchase the power in the future. Potential benefits include:
- Help meet the goals of Alaska for renewable power
- Help increase construction employment during challenging economic conditions
- Help stabilize long term electric bills
- Provide net new revenue for the Port of Alaska and new tax revenue for the Municipality
- Help protect the air quality in the Anchorage basin
CIRI also welcomes the opportunity to discuss other projects that could be located on the island. In fact, the island has been used for many different purposes over the years. Check out the island’s history here and let us know if you have any ideas for future uses!