A village in Alaska turns to solar and biomass energies to cut diesel and save money

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🗞️ Driving the news: The village of Galena, Alaska, is transitioning to renewable energy to reduce its reliance on expensive diesel and increase energy resilience
• With nearly completed solar and biomass projects, the community aims to cut energy costs, improve reliability during extreme weather, and create local jobs, showcasing how rural areas can adopt sustainable energy solutions.

🔭 The context: Galena, a remote village with a population of 400, has been heavily dependent on diesel for heating and electricity
• The community has faced significant challenges due to power outages and high fuel costs
• In response, local leaders initiated renewable energy projects, including a solar farm and biomass plant, to improve energy independence and environmental sustainability

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Galena’s shift to renewable energy not only reduces dependence on fossil fuels but also demonstrates how rural and isolated communities can lead in sustainable energy adoption
• The solar array and biomass plant will decrease emissions, stabilize energy costs, and create local jobs — vital components in the transition toward a greener economy

⏭️ What's next: With the solar array nearing completion, Galena plans to phase out diesel energy during sunny summer days and store excess energy for emergencies
• The community is also building energy-efficient homes, contributing to a broader local initiative to reduce fuel dependency
• Other rural areas may look to Galena as a model for combining renewable energy with community-driven development

💬 One quote: “You’re dealing with life, health and safety,” — Tim Kalke, general manager of sustainable energy for Galena, emphasizing the critical role of energy resilience

📈 One stat: Galena plans to offset 100,000 gallons of diesel annually with its new solar array, saving the community thousands in energy costs

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