Alaskan Village Turns to Solar Energy in Struggle Against High Electricity Costs

In Noatak, Alaska, a small village about 70 miles north of the Arctic Circle, planes deliver much-needed diesel twice a month for heating in freezing temperatures. Residents, however, grapple with electricity bills that are four times higher than the national average. These bills consist of two separate charges: one for energy and another for the fuel costs associated with airlifting it to the remote community.

Bessie Monroe, 56, an assistant to the village’s tribal administrator, expressed the frustration shared by many residents. Despite utilizing a wood-burning stove to supplement heating, Monroe’s electricity bill has averaged $250 monthly this winter for her modest one-bedroom home, a significant burden for this community of around 500 people.

In response to the ongoing financial strain and to establish a local source of electricity, the village collaborated with its utility company to install a small solar panel farm a few years ago. With the introduction of new tax credits for clean energy projects in 2022 through the Inflation Reduction Act, the village recognized an opportunity to expand this renewable energy initiative.

As Noatak aims to enhance its energy independence and reduce reliance on costly fuels, the transition to solar energy could pave the way for a more sustainable future, alleviating some of the financial pressure on its residents. With continued investment in clean energy, the village hopes to not only cope with harsh conditions but also to secure a more affordable electricity supply.