Community energy management in Sitka, Alaska: what strategies can help increase energy independence?

Abstract

This report summarizes practical energy management strategies that could help communities in southeast Alaska move closer to energy independence while utilizing local resources more effectively. Our analysis focuses primarily on Sitka, Alaska, yet could be relevant to other communities having similar energy structures that rely primarily on hydroelectric power. We consider how community energy capacity and locally abundant resources can help communities move toward energy independence. Our recommendations focus on energy conservation, appropriately scaled renewable energy project development, and adoption of new technologies, including electric vehicles. We also identify key stakeholder elements that could be important for successful collaborative projects in southeast Alaska. Last, we consider broader implications for southeast Alaska, including communities having energy resources different from those of Sitka.