Rural Alaskans learn to install and manage alternative energy systems
by Maria Downey KTUU
Thursday, December 10, 2009
ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- More rural communities are seeking alternative energy options, so more training is underway to learn how to use the new technology.
Students from several towns and villages are now taking a two-day class at Susitna Energy Systems in Anchorage.
They're learning how to install and manage alternative energy systems such as wind and solar. They'll then go back to their communities to explain the viable options and be prepared to do the hands-on work that would follow.
More rural communities are seeking cheaper and cleaner options to cut down on the use of expensive fuel.
"It's important because being in a bush community it costs a lot of money for everything, especially electricity," said Chevak resident Shawna Noratak.
"I think it's very important because people are unaware that we have other resources such as wind turbines," Noratak said.
The class has been developed through the efforts of the Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council, the Denali Training Fund and Susitna Energy and lasts through Friday.
Contact Maria Downey at mdowney@ktuu.com
