Renewable grant applications available

The Alaska Energy Authority is requesting applications for the state’s Renewable Energy Grant Fund.

The Alaska Legislature created the fund in 2008 to provide funding for renewable energy projects that can provide economic benefit and local energy sources to Alaska communities. Applications for grants from the fund undergo a through technical and economic evaluation, AEA said in a July 14 press release.

Sara Fisher-Goad, AEA executive director, said, “The Renewable Energy Grant Fund places Alaska at or near the forefront of the 50 states in funding for renewable energy.”

She said the program is advancing Alaska’s goal of 50 percent renewable power by 2025.

This is the eighth round of applications for grants from the fund, which the Legislature extended for 10 years in 2012.

Eighty-six applications were received and nearly $23 million awarded for 28 projects in 2013. Prior to that, AEA said, $227.5 million was provided for 251 projects in the state, including wind, hydro, biomass, solar, transmission and integration to existing fossil-fueled units.

The deadline is Sept. 22. Additional information is available at AkEnergyAuthority.org.

- Petroleum News