The transformation of Alaska’s electric grid is a boon for job growth

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A recent federal investment in Alaska’s energy grid is bringing positive news to the construction, oil and gas industries. The $206 million investment, secured by the state’s congressional delegation and the Biden administration, aims to modernize the grid and increase energy generation. One of the benefits of this investment is the protection of consumers from higher energy costs that would result from imported natural gas.

The grid modernization also creates opportunities to drive down energy costs, making businesses more competitive and strengthening the mining industry and other energy-intensive sectors. This development is part of the Bipartisan Energy Law, spearheaded by Sen. Lisa Murkowski, Sen. Dan Sullivan, and the late Rep. Don Young, which has generated job opportunities in Alaska’s job market.

The Golden Valley Electric Association (GVEA) is working on deploying a 130MW wind farm, and the modernization of the grid will allow for the deployment of lower-cost clean energy in the Interior and help drive down energy prices. The Biden administration has also awarded a major grant to build a large energy storage facility near Healy, which will integrate low-cost clean energy and protect Interior consumers.

In addition to electric generation, the Willow and Pikka projects on the North Slope are creating significant job opportunities in construction, highlighting a bright future for energy production in Alaska. These investments aim to generate more energy, create more construction jobs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The energy production in Alaska is not only significant for job creation but also for national security, particularly in defending democracy and supporting allies facing threats from China and Russia. The author, Jacob Howdeshell, emphasizes the need for Alaska to become an energy powerhouse, and expresses gratitude to the companies, electric cooperatives, and the congressional delegation for their collaborative efforts in Alaska’s energy production.

Jacob Howdeshell is the business manager of Laborers Local 942, which represents construction, oil, and gas workers throughout Alaska. The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and may not necessarily be endorsed by the Anchorage Daily News. The publication encourages a broad range of viewpoints and welcomes submissions for consideration.

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