Discussion begins on omnibus energy bill in Alaska; cost estimates to be released Thursday

Discussion begins on Alaska omnibus energy bill

JUNEAU, Alaska — The Alaska Senate’s Resources Committee began initial discussion Wednesday of an omnibus energy bill.

The bill would set targets for energy efficiency and use of renewable sources for generating electricity. It would also push public agencies to lead by example.

Cost estimates have yet to be released, but are expected Thursday.

The specific goals are to improve energy efficiency by 15 percent per capita by 2020, generate half of the state’s electricity from renewable sources by 2025, and to “work to ensure a reliable, in-state gas supply” for state residents.

Many of the specific measures to achieve the goal target public entities, such as the state itself, municipalities and school districts.