Concept Vision

This proposed run-of-river concept will generate year-round and produce up to 12 MWs of power, depending on the season and associated river flow. Electricity and optical fiber would be provided to the communities of Dillingham, Aleknagik, Koliganek, New Stuyahok, Ekwok and Levelock, also supporting the electric and communications needs of Bristol Bay’s incredible wild salmon industry in these communities. Project generation potential has been estimated using over 60 years of federally collected site-specific flow data. Based upon this analysis, the seasonal generation capacity matches, or exceeds, the demand for power in these communities. This project will replace up to 1.5 million gallons of diesel fuel annually. Hydroelectric projects in Alaska have a successful history of providing electric rate reduction, reduced dependence on fossil fuels, carbon emissions mitigation and longevity. Several hydro facilities in Alaska have been in operation for more than a century and many more are currently displaying the same type of longevity potential. We believe the combination of renewable energy and increased broadband access will provide the basis for economic and social improvement and growth in the region for generations to come.

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Concept Overview
Concept Overview

This Nuyakuk River Concept location provides many advantages for low-impact hydroelectric development. Twenty Six feet of elevation drop occurs rapidly through a series of falls in a 2500’ stretch of river. The location of these falls at an oxbow (bend) would allow for a flow diversion of only 1500’ without the need for a dam. Our intent is to meet generation goals while at the same time having minimal negative impact on the environment. Key project characteristics include:

  • Natural topographic and hydrologic features that benefit diversion and reintroduction of flow
  • Vast upstream lake system that captures 1544 square miles of watershed and acts as a natural sediment trap
  • Low visual impact site with minimal project footprint
  • No disturbance of the natural course of the river
  • Short bypass reach (portion of the river that is affected) through falls area that possesses limited to no rearing or spawning habitat
  • Potentially positive impact for upstream fish passage through the bypass reach via reduction of high water velocities that currently create intermittent velocity barriers during key migration periods
Concept Status

UPDATES

Nuyakuk Project Community Input

The Cooperative is gathering input on the proposed hydroelectric project. Your input is appreciated. You can access the survey at the link below. Responses may be submitted with contact information or anonymously.

https://form.jotform.com/233195473949066

Initial Study Report

The Cooperative has nearly completed the first year of field studies and has submitted an Initial Study Report (ISR) as required by FERC on December 1st, 2023. The ISR is available here: https://elibrary.ferc.gov/eLibrary/filelist?accession_num=20231201-5201

Initial Study Report Meetings

The Cooperative will be hosting a series of two public meetings to present the study results. Meeting details can also be found on the Calendar tab of the website

  • December 5th, 2023
    • In-person in the Nushagak Cooperative’s Boardroom (Dillingham, AK), or virtually via Teams
    • 1-4pm AK time
    • 6-9pm AK time
    • Both meetings will utilize the same presentation and the purpose of hosting two meetings is to maximize attendance and accommodate a variety of work and personal schedules. You do not need to attend both meetings.