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The Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2008 passed the house today with a vote of 312-112.  The final version of this bill, which will distribute appropriations for energy and water development and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, contains many key provisions deemed beneficial to Alaska, and secured by Alaskan Congressman Don Young.  

“I am very pleased that the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations was able to understand the need for funding for these critical projects in Alaska, and especially the energy projects,” said Congressman Young.  “The price of fuel has sky-rocketed in Alaska, most critically in the rural areas where income is often limited.  We need renewable energy sources to alleviate the stress felt by many who aren’t sure how they are going to pay for heat, in a state that often experiences sub-zero temperatures.  This funding puts us on the right track to finding new and better ways to provide for the energy needs of Alaskans.”

The following are the projects Congressman Young secured funding for:

• $150,000 to Kotzebue Electric Association to reduce the use of diesel fuel through exploration of wind generation technology.
• $500,000 to Alaska Village Initiatives for a Renewable Energy Biomass Utilization Program.
• $250,000 to the Tanadgusix (TDX) Foundation to demonstrate the benefits of manufacturing hydrogen from a renewable energy source for transportation purposes, via wind facilities.
• $385,500 to the Chenega IRA Council, a non-profit, federally recognized tribe that provides public serves to the residents of the Native Village of Chenga Bay.   Funds will be directed towards the purchase of three new generators to update old equipment and meet EPA specifications.

This bill also contains $300,000 to Army Corps Engineers for Yakutat harbor as well as $25,033,000 to Region 19 Alaska Operations and Maintenance Administration, both at the request of the Administration. 

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