Murkowski touts DOE secretary’s visit to Alaska

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) said the Department of Energy (DOE) Deputy Secretary’s recent visit to Alaska provided an opportunity to see energy-related opportunities and challenges across the state.

“This was a great opportunity for Dan to visit more of Alaska, to see firsthand how we contribute to our nation’s energy security, and to learn about the innovation taking place throughout our state,” Murkowski said regarding Deputy Secretary Dan Brouillette’s visit. “I thank the Deputy Secretary for making the trip, for spending so much time here and for everything he and his team are doing to form a strong partnership between the Department and Alaska. This was a truly wonderful couple of days that we appreciate and will build on.”

Murkowski and Brouillette visited Kwigillingok and Kongiganak, which are rural villages in western Alaska transitioning microgrids off diesel to more affordable and sustainable energy.

By utilizing locally available energy sources like wind, Kwigillingok is able to be off diesel for at least one-third of the year while Kongiganak’s wind penetration for the electrical grid is at 30 to 40 percent.

“It was an honor to see the incredible capabilities and meet with the gracious people of beautiful Alaska this past week,” Brouillette said. “I want to thank Senator Lisa Murkowski for hosting me and showing me the vast energy potential of the state. Together, we can harness innovation to increase sustainable and responsible energy development, providing a future of security, prosperity, and opportunity for Alaska and America.”