Matanuska Electric Association reached a milestone in its local generation planning process on May 12 when the Anchorage Assembly unanimously approved the ordinance rezoning the property for the power plant.
Last June MEA signed a memorandum of understanding with Eklutna Inc., a local Native corporation and MEA member, for the possible acquisition of nearly 70 acres of property in the Eklutna area. Last February MEA’s Board of Directors approved the purchase of the property for approximately $2.7 million, pending a successful rezone.
MEA plans to build up to a 180 megawatt natural gas power plant on the property to provide electricity to its roughly 45,000 members living in the Mat-Su and Chugiak/Eagle River areas.
“MEA and Eklutna, Inc. have worked side by side on getting this property rezoned,” said Lorali Carter, MEA spokesperson. “Our rezone application was passed unanimously by the Anchorage Planning and Zoning Commission. It also received a favorable recommendation by the Planning Department staff, and ultimately earned unanimous support from the Anchorage Assembly,” she added.
"This undisputed support for MEA’s local generation plans demonstrates that the policymakers in the Municipality of Anchorage understand the importance of MEA being able to provide electricity to its membership, as well as how important it is to plan for Southcentral Alaska’s energy future,” said Wayne Carmony, MEA General Manager.
“The management and Board of Directors at Eklutna, Inc. have a long affiliation with our local power cooperative, and are excited about MEA moving forward with a natural gas power plant in our area,” said Curtis McQueen, CEO, Eklutna Inc.
“Dating back to the early 1900s this property has had historical significance in providing power to the region,” McQueen stated.
The property surrounds an existing electric substation, and is adjacent to the retired Eklutna Power House.
“It is very fitting that MEA and Eklutna Inc, would look to work cooperatively on a project like this,” said Lorali Carter. “The two organizations have a long standing relationship of cooperation and both are committed to the positive well-being of the community,” she added.
or more information about MEA’s new generation plans, please call Lorali Carter at 761-9266, or for information regarding Eklutna, Inc., contact Curtis McQueen, CEO, Eklutna, Inc., at 696-2828.