Clean Energy Transformation in Galena, Alaska: Advancing Sustainable Development Goals

Galena, a rural village in central Alaska, is undergoing a significant clean energy transformation aimed at reducing reliance on imported diesel fuel, which is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative aligns closely with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Background and Renewable Energy Initiatives

1. Biomass Heating Plant: Nearly a decade ago, Galena began harvesting local trees to fuel a biomass plant that heats the village’s boarding school. This project offsets approximately 100,000 gallons (380,000 liters) of diesel annually, contributing to SDG 13 by reducing carbon emissions.
2. Sustainable Housing and Wood Collection: The Louden Tribe encourages residents to collect floating logs from the Yukon River. These logs are used as firewood and siding for sustainable homes built for tribal members, supporting SDG 11 by promoting sustainable community development.
3. Solar Energy Expansion: A 1.5-megawatt solar farm is under development, which will enable the city to operate on 100% clean, renewable energy during sunny summer days. Excess energy will be stored in batteries for later use, further reducing diesel consumption by an additional 100,000 gallons annually. This initiative advances SDG 7 and SDG 13 by increasing renewable energy use and reducing emissions.

Community Perspectives on Sustainable Development

• Tim Kalke, General Manager at Sustainable Energy for Galena Alaska

  Emphasizes the importance of building redundancy and protection into critical infrastructure to minimize costly power outages, supporting SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

• Jade Thurmond, Solar Farm Worker

  Expresses enthusiasm about reducing diesel usage and the positive environmental impact, reflecting community engagement in SDG 7 and SDG 13.

• Jake Pogrebinsky, Sawmill Operator and Driftwood Collector

  Highlights the value of local resource utilization and skill-building activities for youth, contributing to SDG 8 by fostering decent work and economic growth within the community.

• Brad Scotton, Galena City Council Member

  Notes that the biomass plant has stabilized energy costs and created meaningful local jobs, keeping financial resources within the community and supporting SDG 8 and SDG 11.

• Will Kramer, Applied Mechanics Instructor

  Discusses how local energy systems empower the community by reducing dependence on external entities, promoting SDG 7 and SDG 11.

• Phil Koontz, Retired Environmental Engineer for the Louden Tribe

  Identifies fuel as a critical external resource and advocates for energy efficiency improvements such as better insulation and vehicles, aligning with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13.

• Aaren Sommer, Solar Array Installer

  Anticipates significant diesel reduction due to the solar array, reinforcing SDG 7 and SDG 13.

Impact on Sustainable Development Goals

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – The transition to biomass and solar energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels and increases access to renewable energy.
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Creation of local jobs in biomass energy production and sustainable housing supports economic development.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Sustainable housing and resilient energy infrastructure enhance community sustainability.
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Efficient use of local resources and energy efficiency measures reduce environmental impact.
• SDG 13: Climate Action – Reduction in diesel fuel use lowers greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation.

Conclusion

Galena’s clean energy initiatives demonstrate a comprehensive approach to sustainable development by integrating renewable energy technologies, local resource management, and community engagement. These efforts not only reduce environmental impact but also foster economic resilience and social well-being, serving as a model for rural communities worldwide striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • The article discusses Galena’s transition to clean energy sources such as biomass and solar power to reduce reliance on diesel fuel.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Creation of local jobs through biomass plant operations and sustainable energy projects is highlighted.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Building sustainable homes using local resources and improving community resilience.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by cutting diesel use and adopting renewable energy.
5. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Use of local biomass resources such as harvested trees and driftwood for energy and construction.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 7 – Target 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
   • Implementation of a 1.5-megawatt solar farm and biomass plant to replace diesel fuel.
2. SDG 7 – Target 7.3: Double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
   • Focus on better insulated houses and efficient energy use mentioned by Phil Koontz.
3. SDG 8 – Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all.
   • Creation of local workforce and jobs in biomass and solar energy sectors.
4. SDG 11 – Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities.
   • Building sustainable homes using local materials and renewable energy.
5. SDG 13 – Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into policies and planning.
   • Community efforts to reduce diesel emissions and increase resilience to climate impacts.
6. SDG 15 – Target 15.2: Promote sustainable management of forests.
   • Harvesting trees sustainably for biomass energy and construction materials.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator 7.2.1: Renewable energy share in the total final energy consumption.
   • Measured by the percentage of energy generated from biomass and solar replacing diesel.
2. Indicator 7.3.1: Energy intensity measured in terms of primary energy and GDP.
   • Implied through efforts to improve energy efficiency in buildings and vehicles.
3. Indicator 8.5.2: Unemployment rate, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
   • Job creation in the local renewable energy sector can be tracked.
4. Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in cities.
   • Reduction in diesel use implies improved air quality.
5. Indicator 13.2.2: Total greenhouse gas emissions per year.
   • Reduction in diesel fuel consumption directly reduces emissions.
6. Indicator 15.2.1: Progress towards sustainable forest management.
   • Use of harvested trees for biomass and construction monitored for sustainability.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: seattletimes.com