Susitna-Watana Hydro is part of a diverse energy future. The state’s energy infrastructure is ageing and existing gas-fired generation units will be retired in the coming years.  Once online, Susitna-Watana Hydro will deliver about 50 percent of the Alaska Railbelt’s electricity. Residents and businesses will be able to count on clean, reliable and stable-priced energy for 100+ years.

Alaska ranks fifth highest in U.S. energy costs and remains dependent on volatile-priced fossil fuels. Without a large renewable energy project like Susitna-Watana Hydro, replacement fossil fuels- likely from new oil and gas production- will be necessary to meet Railbelt energy demand.

Alaska is leading the nation in its commitment to renewable energy. As part of the 2010 energy policy, the Alaska Legislature set the goal of 50 percent electrical energy from renewable sources by 2025. Susitna-Watana Hydro will contribute a significant amount of hydropower generation to help the state achieve its goal, which cannot realistically be achieved through other renewable sources alone.