Experts from across the state discuss affordable, clean energy in Alaska

ANCHORAGE, AK – The Renewable Energy Alaska Project (REAP) will host its 8th annual Alaska Renewable Energy Fair this Saturday, August 11th, from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on the Anchorage Parkstrip between G and I Street (across I Street from the Governor’s picnic). This free event will feature demonstrations on solar and wind energy, informational booths, and expert-led presentations on topics including the Fire Island Wind project, Cook Inlet Tidal power, energy efficient construction and Susitna/Watana hydropower.

“Dozens of communities and businesses across the state are utilizing Alaska’s abundant supply of renewable energy resources to generate clean, local and stably priced energy,” said REAP Executive Director Chris Rose. “The Alaska Renewable Energy Fair highlights many of these projects and technologies and provides an update on clean energy’s advancements in Alaska.”

Since 2008 the Alaska Legislature has appropriated over $200 million for renewable energy projects and over $500 million for energy efficiency upgrades. The state has also established a goal to generate 50 percent of Alaska’s electricity via renewable energy by 2025 and reduce per capita energy use by 15 percent by 2020. Rose says Fair attendees will learn what Alaskans are doing to achieve those goals.

“Rural Alaska and Fairbanks already face some of the highest energy prices in the nation. And here in Anchorage the cost of the natural gas we depend upon heavily is vulnerable to changes in global market prices. Alaskans are eager to learn about predictably priced renewable energy sources. The Fair is a fun opportunity for people to see how some of these technologies work and to learn about the future of renewable energy in Alaska.”

In addition to workshops and demonstrations, the Fair will also feature live music, a beer garden, local food vendors and children’s activities. For more information and a full schedule of events go to www.REalaska.org.