Support for the Mahoney Lake Hydroelectric Project

Sep 10, 2013 | Letters of Support

Support for the Mahoney Lake Hydroelectric Project

September 10, 2013
To Whom it May Concern:

The purpose of this letter is to express the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce’s support for development of the Mahoney Lake hydroelectric project in a manner which:

  1.  Assures affordable electricity to Ketchikan residents and businesses,
  2. Supports Ketchikan’s economic growth and development, attracts new businesses, and leads to creation of new jobs, and
  3. Contributes to the Ketchikan region’s overall economic health and sustainability.

Demand for electricity in the region continues to grow. An increasing number of homeowners and businesses are using electric heating systems, and new pUblic facilities have created and will continue to create concurrent new needs for power. Major development activities with great economic potential for the region, such as the continued expansion of Alaska Ship and Drydock, the possible construction of Alaska Class Ferries in Ketchikan, expansion of Ketchikan’s maritime industry sector, and future mining activities on Prince of Wales Island, will create additional demand for electriCity. The cost of burning diesel fuel during times of high demand cuts into businesses’ bottom lines and adds to families’ living expenses.

Increased availability of affordable electricity will support the development of Ketchikan’s economy, driving business growth and making the region more attractive for new private sector investment. Surplus, affordable power will attract new jobs and businesses to the region.

The City of Saxman owns the FERC license for a 9.6 megawatt hydroelectric project at Mahoney Lake. The Mahoney Lake project is “low hanging fruit” capable of providing for Ketchikan’s energy needs for years to come.

The Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce supports construction of the Mahoney Lake project before expiration of permits and licensing.

Sincerely,
Chelsea J. Goucher
Business Manager
Greater Ketchikan Chamber
0: (907) 225-3184
C: (907) 220-2133
E: chelsea@ketchikanchamber.com

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