Energy security means efficiency, clean energy

Wow, there was a lot of great “energy” in the opinion pages last Sunday! From a thorough review of Alaska’s potential for tidal power production (Daniel Grota) to the importance of energy efficiency (Jamey Duhamel) to the unnecessarily chilly reception some Alaskans give renewable energy (Jesse Moe), it’s telling to see so much ink devoted to one of the most important issues of our time — energy security.

In their own way, each writer is pointing to the need to promote energy efficiency and move toward clean energy systems based on renewable resources. I wanted to jump into the conversation to point out that Mat-Su College has developed a sustainable energy program to help address exactly these issues. Our classes appeal to students of all ages seeking either a career in energy efficiency/clean energy or to learn about cold climate construction, solar hot water or small wind systems for their homes, cabins or businesses.

Sure, we’re an oil and gas state right now, but for the sake of future generations of Alaskans it’s important for us to use the wealth derived from nonrenewable resources to transition to a clean energy economy. We can do this by reducing energy use as much as possible through well-established measures like weatherizing homes and businesses, and developing renewable energy systems that will serve us long after our fossil resources are played out. No matter where our primary energy comes from (renewable or nonrenewable resources), pursuing energy efficiency in our homes, businesses and public buildings is the critical first step. And, lucky for us, it’s by far the most cost-effective! These actions begin saving owners money immediately, often with a very rapid payback.

The beauty of pursuing energy efficiency measures first is that, unlike big pipeline or hydro projects that require huge investment decisions and long permitting processes, we can get started right now. The technology to insulate and properly ventilate buildings is readily available, and it creates local jobs that can’t be outsourced.

Alaska is blessed with abundant renewable resources, including solar, wind, ocean, river, geothermal and biomass. None have the energy density of fossil fuels, so they must typically be developed closer to where the energy is consumed. There are plenty of challenges, which is why we need to aggressively explore these options now, not when our fossil resources are so expensive nobody wants to buy them. Waiting too long to address a problem is exactly why we face the current Cook Inlet natural gas “crisis.”

Jesse Moe pointed out some innovative programs being implemented by the Fairbanks electric utility (a co-op, like our own MEA) and by the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He opines that the major difference between the Fairbanks area and Southcentral Alaska is education. While education might be a factor, I think a major influence is energy costs, which are typically much higher in Fairbanks than in our area. Money talks — especially when it’s flying out of your pocket.

Affordable and clean energy is critical for healthy, resilient communities. The Mat-Su College Sustainable Energy Program is rooted in both practical application and future potential. It’s a small program, with lots of room for growth. Nationwide, the number of jobs related to clean energy is skyrocketing, and I believe rising fossil fuel costs will drive the same trend here in Alaska.

We are all energy consumers, and while we cannot control energy prices, we can control our energy costs. At Mat-Su College, you can learn ways to reduce your energy use and transition to clean energy sources that have zero fuel costs. That’s the path to reliable energy security.

Mark Masteller is an assistant professor at Mat-Su College and director of the Sustainable Energy program.