State of Alaska Archives: on Energy & Oil
Al Gross:
Climate change a threat: Alaska literally losing villages
I know what a serious threat climate change is to Alaska, where we are literally losing villages to the ocean. We can grow our economy while taking major steps to protect our land and water and reducing carbon emissions. In Alaska, we have enormous
potential to develop wind, hydroelectric, solar, and tidal power as new energy sources. I oppose the Pebble Mine project that threatens Bristol Bay, our natural salmon fishery and the livelihood of those who live there and fish those waters.
Source: 2020 Alaska Senate campaign website DrAlGrossAK.com
Nov 20, 2019
Al Gross:
Opposes Canadian mine in Alaska operation EPA would allow
The proposed Pebble mine in Bristol Bay is the epicenter of crony capitalism. After a meeting between Gov. Dunleavy and President Trump, the Environmental Protection Agency announced it is doing away with a protection that the Canadian Pebble mine
operators viewed as an obstacle. Scientific evidence shows that the Pebble mine footprint will cause irreversible damage to our wild Alaska salmon population. President Trump, Gov. Dunleavy, and the corporate interests from Canada don't seem to care.
Source: Anchorage Daily News on 2020 Alaska Senate race
Aug 29, 2019
Al Gross:
Promote clean energy for rural Alaska; rejoin Paris accord
Gross says that he wants to bring federal resources into rural Alaska to expand clean energy programs. "There are wind and solar and tide opportunities throughout rural Alaska that are not being utilized and it should be," Gross said. "And as a Senator,
I'd do everything I could to lower energy costs in rural Alaska." As a Senator, he wants to make sure the country is part of the Paris Climate Agreement again.
Source: KOTZ Radio 720 AM on 2020 Alaska Senate race
Apr 23, 2020
Bill Walker:
Develop local alternative energy sources, plus a new gasline
Alaska is in an energy crisis now and we are doing little to solve that in time to save our at risk communities. There are short-term solutions available that could fill the gap while we develop a large gasline project that matches the global
market opportunity before us. For those communities that will not be able to access North Slope gas directly, other long-term solutions--specific to regions or even localities--must be developed.We can develop small, local energy sources including
wind, geothermal, and small hydro projects to benefit our communities. Alaska could even have its own oil/gas exploration and production (E&P) arm. This entity would not be in competition with existing leaseholders on the
North Slope but would explore for gas in locations that may not be enticing to a large E & P company but may hold sufficient gas to energize that rural community for generations.
Source: 2014 Governor campaign website, WalkerMallottForAlaska.com
Nov 4, 2014
Bill Walker:
Expand exportation of LNG to Asian markets
The reception we received in Japan in September from the Asian marketplace following my presentation at the LNG Producer-Consumer Conference was extremely encouraging.
The market has not forgotten the relationship Alaska forged with Japan to export LNG. The Asian market stands ready to work with Alaska to ensure the pipeline is built and the LNG project at Nikiski is successful.
Source: 2016 State of the State speech to Alaska legislature
Jan 21, 2016
Bill Walker:
Invest in renewables to diversify economy
We have traditionally been an energy state. As we diversify our economy, we have an opportunity to be a leader in renewable energy, emerging energy technologies and energy efficiency. With our abundant wind, geothermal, tidal and even solar resources,
we are uniquely suited to test, develop and deploy these technologies. On a practical level, reducing diesel use in our remote communities lowers costs for families, government and local businesses; and increases energy security.
Source: 2016 State of the State speech to Alaska legislature
Jan 21, 2016
Bill Walker:
Increased oil production key part of energy policy
We make nothing on oil discovered but left in the ground. Access and production are key. We are now working to develop toll roads so exploration can take place 12 months a year rather than just in the winter months.
We applaud the recent production activities which have resulted in two consecutive years of increased oil throughput in the pipeline. We also welcome all the new players out in the field working hard to increase production.
Source: 2018 Alaska State of the State address
Jan 18, 2018
Cean Stevens:
Intelligent development of oil & gas for energy security
Alaska was built on its natural resources. Along with my friends and neighbors, I love Alaska's outdoors and the bounty our state provides. I support responsible development in oil and gas, mining, forestry and fisheries.
I look forward to the jobs that intelligent development will provide for all.I will promote energy security and affordability by advancing a natural gas pipeline which benefits all Alaskans.
Source: 2016 Alaska Senate campaign website, CeanStevens.com
Mar 10, 2016
Charlie Huggins:
Endorses oil tax reform to increase production
Eight months into oil tax reform, we're now seeing the positive effects of the major resurgence of investments on the North Slope. These developments under the new oil tax reform add up to a big win for Alaska. With an economy fueled by a healthy oil
industry, we'll have more high-paying jobs for Alaskans and more funding for education, roads, law enforcement, and basic infrastructure in the future. Oil tax reform will build a bridge into the future toward development on the outer continental.
Source: Anchorage Daily News on 2018 Alaska gubernatorial race
Aug 15, 2014
Christopher Kurka:
Exemption from regulations for renewable energy projects
SB69: "An Act extending an exemption from regulation as a public utility for facilities generating electricity entirely from renewable energy resources."Alaska Center Summary: A bill which would help decrease obstacles for Independent
Power Producers to create renewable energy projects and get clean energy on transmission grids.
Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 18-2-0 on 3/31/21; Passed House 36-1-3 on 5/7/21; Rep. Kurka voted YES; Signed by Governor on 8/16/21.
Source: Alaska State Legislature voting records SB69
May 7, 2021
Dan Sullivan:
Climate change is both threat and benefit to Alaska
Q: Consider human-caused climate change a serious threat?Dan Sullivan: Mixed. Unclear if human-caused. Both threat and benefit. "Climate change in Alaska is opening up opportunities": more fishing, commerce and shipping as sea ice recedes.
But melting permafrost harms roads.
Al Gross: Yes. "With a background in science, I know what a serious threat climate change is to the state of Alaska, where we are literally losing villages to the ocean."
Source: CampusElect on 2020 Alaska Senate race
Oct 10, 2020
Dan Sullivan:
Against any ban on hydrocarbon production
Q: Opinion of drilling ban?Dan Sullivan: Against any ban on hydrocarbon production. Asked Trump to pressure financial institutions benefiting from CARES Act to keep "investing in U.S. coal" and oil and gas development. Strong supporter of Arctic
National Wildlife Refuge drilling.
Al Gross: "Enormous potential to develop wind, hydroelectric, solar, and tidal power." Supports re-entering the Paris Climate Agreement. Does support ANWR drilling "in an environmentally safe way."
Source: CampusElect on 2020 Alaska Senate race
Oct 10, 2020
Joe Miller:
Nuclear energy shouldn't be precluded or overlooked
The candidates agreed on the need to provide for more reliable energy--just differing on how to get there. Murkowski and McAdams talked about a focus on boosting renewable energy to help build up local communities and create jobs.
Miller said options, including nuclear, shouldn't be precluded or overlooked.
Source: Associated Press coverage of 2010 Alaska Senate debate
Oct 7, 2010
Joe Miller:
Develop hydroelectric projects but without federal aid
On the issue of offshore drilling, McAdams said he unequivocally was in support of it. McAdams added that he had drafted a letter to Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar asking him to lift the moratorium on offshore drilling.Miller may have missed hi
opponent's response, rebutting by saying, "This whole anti-development perspective of the Democratic Party, we've got to stop it, because that's not the future of this state."
On regional hydroelectric projects, McAdams said that he would fight for
federal funding.
Miller agreed that energy projects needed to move forward, but that federal regulatory burdens would make projects less likely to happen. "Any time you say there isn't room for private enterprise, I think you're making a mistake," he
said. "Any time you're dependent on the feds, let me tell you, it's a dead end. We need to work forward to make sure these things can go forward, that we get the feds out of the way in a way that we put these projects to work."
Source: Capital City Weekly coverage of 2010 Alaska Senate debate
Sep 22, 2010
Joe Miller:
No subsidies for wind and solar
Question topic: Governments should pay to develop wind and solar energy solutions when these are not economically feasible.
Miller: Strongly Disagree
Source: Faith2Action iVoterGuide on 2014 Alaska Senate race
Jul 2, 2014
Kelly Tshibaka:
Stop leftists who want to shut down oil and gas production
As your next senator, I will rebuild our economy and fight to protect the jobs of the thousands of Alaskans who work in our energy industry. We need a senator who will defend us against the leftists who want to shut down our oil and gas production and
destroy our way of life. We must support and rejuvenate our small businesses and give our young people hope that they can find good jobs here at home, instead of leaving to find employment elsewhere.
Source: The Anchorage Daily News on 2022 Alaska Senate race
Mar 30, 2021
Kelly Tshibaka:
Speed up process for oil and gas leases in ANWR
Permitting processes for oil and gas leases on public lands are onerous and time consuming, taking years to complete. In the case of access to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), federal regulatory restrictions were in place for 60 years before
President Donald Trump cleared the way for energy production. Biden then suspended oil and gas leases in ANWR on his first day in office. When I'm your senator, I will call for permitting processes to be completed within a defined time frame.
Source: Anchorage Daily News on 2022 Alaska Senate race
May 31, 2021
Mark Begich:
Short term: $2.5B for LIHEAP; 70M bbl from strategic reserve
Begich said he sent letters to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, urging them to join in a bipartisan effort to tackle both short-term relief & long-term solutions in a national energy package to give help and hope to
America's working families. Begich said the skyrocketing cost of home heating fuel prices "is crippling many communities & stretching pocketbooks," and hospitals, schools and businesses are making tough budget decisions to cover record electricity bills.
In his letter, Begich asked Senate leaders to:- add an extra $2.5 billion in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program;
- clamp down on oil market speculators and price gouging by producers and distributors;
- release
70 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve;
- double tax credits for energy-efficiency home improvements and allow employers to create pre-tax flexible spending accounts for transportation costs.
Source: 2008 Alaska Senate Debate reported in Fairbanks News-Miner
Sep 9, 2008
Mark Begich:
Long term: develop ANWR; build renewable energy plants
Congress must put aside partisan politics and implement a national energy package, Begich said in a letter to Senate leaders. In his letter, Begich wrote that American families need immediate bipartisan action from Congress and the president to bring
short-term relief from high energy prices. As for long-term solutions, Begich urged Senate leaders to:- open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to responsible oil and gas development;
- accelerate the sale of leases in the National Petroleum
Reserve-Alaska;
- provide incentives for oil and gas federal lease holders to develop quickly and supply the Alaska natural gas line;
- create an loan fund to retrofit public buildings for energy efficiency;
- offer low-interest loans to
public utilities for transition to more efficient and renewable power generation;
- build vocational education programs that train workers to construct, operate and maintain renewable energy generation plants and transmission systems.
Source: 2008 Alaska Senate Debate reported in Fairbanks News-Miner
Sep 9, 2008
Mark Begich:
Drill in the Arctic Ocean; drill in National Forests
Drill, baby, drill. Sen. Mark Begich will go on the radio Thursday with a new ad touting his work to expand drilling and mining in the Arctic:"Even though Washington keeps trying to stop Alaska from developing our natural resources, I'm pushing for
more oil drilling and mining because it means thousands of new jobs that you can raise a family on," he says in the 60-second spot, "and because it's our land, and we know best how to use it."
Begich began running radio ads early.
Each ad presents him as an outsider fighting against the unpopular status quo in Washington. Previous topics include education reform and decrying the government shutdown.
Begich notes that he got the Forest Service to open up 11 new drill sites at
Greens Creek and to expand the mine to keep it open for an additional 30 years. "And next year, Shell Oil is coming back to the Arctic Ocean, bringing new and upgraded drill ships so we can finally start drilling after decades of waiting," said Begich.
Source: Politico.com AdWatch on 2014 Alaska Senate race
Jan 2, 2014
Mark Begich:
Green Bank to fund energy conservation and development
Begich said he fears the economy is still foundering and that Alaskans are looking for better leadership in stimulating growth. He praised one idea for creative financing that has put forth recently that has gotten little support by the Walker
administration--a "green bank" concept that would leverage financing to fund energy conservation and new development. So-called green banks in the Northeast states have stimulated investment of several billion dollars of new investment in energy
projects, Begich said. Begich also cited his own early advocacy, as a U.S. senator, for Alaska becoming a leader in the development of aerial drone technology and testing. At the time drones were still considered a far-fetched idea in many quarters.
One specific proposal Begich now puts forth is a $6 billion state capital improvements program funded by general obligation bonds where the projects would be built over several years.
Source: Anchorage Press on 2018 Alaska gubernatorial debate
Aug 30, 2018
Mary Peltola:
We are living with the devastating effects of climate change
We are living with the effects of climate change, where I'm from the effects are devastating. While we adapt to our changing environment,
we need national leadership that prioritizes solutions as large as the problem we face.
Source: 2022 Alaska House campaign website MaryPeltola.com
Sep 1, 2022
Mead Treadwell:
Supports CO2 sequestration technology and hydrogen vehicles
Few can claim Treadwell's experience and understanding of the Arctic, where he has represented Alaska on U.S. Delegations in three circumpolar government groups, and been a director of the Institute of the North. Treadwell called ocean acidification
one of the "most pressing effects" of climate change, and "one of the toughest things to adapt to." The solutions, he believes, lie in better technology. "I have always supported trying to make our energy cleaner," he said, pointing to potential in
CO2 sequestration technology and use of hydrogen vehicles. "I believe we can and must be a proving ground for some of these new technologies."
Treadwell added, "but you are not going to find me,
as a responsible official from a state known for three things: cold, dark, distance--and where people are already paying too much for energy, trying to raise their energy prices."
Source: Alaska Journal of Commerce on 2014 Alaska Senate race
Jan 24, 2014
Mike Chenault:
Natural gas pipeline & North Slope development are crucial
Our state faces critical issues: declining revenues, oil production, getting our gas to market in time to compete with growing world demand and project competition. A natural gas pipeline and development of our North Slope resources are crucial
to our state's future. While an instate line could help alleviate energy problems, a bigger LNG project may help bolster state revenues until we see the benefits of new oil production fostered by the oil tax reform passed last year.
Source: Anchorage Daily News on 2018 Alaska Gubernatorial race
Jun 29, 2016
Mike Dunleavy:
Backs Donlin goldmine/pipeline, for huge energy opportunity
Dunleavy pledged support for the Donlin gold mine. The project also proposes a 315-mile-long gas pipeline from Cook Inlet to fuel the mine's operations and power demands. Former Senator Dunleavy says that pipeline is a huge energy opportunity for the
Y-K Delta and the state. "A lot of spin-off industries will benefit from it in the Y-K Delta and Southcentral Alaska so I think it's a huge opportunity for Alaska," Dunleavy said.
Dunleavy and three other top gubernatorial candidates have pledged support for the Donlin mine, which would be the one of the biggest gold mines in the world. It will require large treatment facilities for mercury and cyanide coming from the mine's
operations. People living the Y-K Delta are also worried about what will happen after the mine stops producing. The site would have to be monitored forever, once it ceases operations.
Source: U. of Alaska press release on 2018 Alaska gubernatorial race
Jul 6, 2018
Mike Dunleavy:
Alaskan oil industry is undergoing a renaissance
The oil industry is undergoing a renaissance. We saw an incredible $5.5 billion dollars in private investment on the North Slope last year, that will result in a potential 200-300 thousand new barrels of oil in the next several years. This is great news
for Alaska and Alaska's future. I want to be very clear--outsiders love to present a false choice between resource development and the environment. From their perspective, it's a win-lose, but from our perspective it should be a win-win.
Source: 2020 Alaska State of the State address
Jan 27, 2020
Mike Dunleavy:
Goal of 50% renewable energy by 2025
Inexpensive energy, especially electricity, will be the basis that drives the future economy. If Alaska does it right, we have an opportunity to lead this nation in cheap energy.
Whether it's tidal, hydro, solar, biomass, wind, or geothermal, we have more potential to deploy renewable energy than anywhere else on the planet, and we have an obligation to make every possible effort to reach this 50% goal by 2025.
Source: 2020 Alaska State of the State address
Jan 27, 2020
Mike Dunleavy:
Harness renewable energy resources: wind, tidal, hydro
We must make the pursuit of cheap and reliable energy a priority. We can start by harnessing the incredible renewable energy resources within Alaska itself. Alaska possesses more tidal energy than the rest of the nation combined.
Our potential for wind, geothermal, in-shore and pumped hydro is practically unlimited. We have the means to reduce our enormous power costs, attract new jobs, and deliver cheap Alaskan energy to Alaskans.
Source: 2021 State of the State Address to the Alaska legislature
Jan 28, 2021
Mike Dunleavy:
False premise: protect environment or economic development
We must defend our right to develop traditional energy resources. Alaska generates much of its revenue from this activity. More importantly, our constitution compels us to do so. I reject the false premise between protecting the environment and
developing our economy. This is the argument of outsiders who seek to divide us for their own benefit. We know better than anyone, that we can develop our resources so that a clean environment and prosperity are two sides of the same coin.
Source: 2021 State of the State Address to the Alaska legislature
Jan 28, 2021
Mike Dunleavy:
We need oil and gas revenue to transition to renewables
Our ability to increase production is under attack from Washington, DC, and federal courts that side with extremist environmental groups. No state has been targeted more by the current administration than Alaska. For those who want us to invest in
programs such as renewables, as I do, the cost of transition can only come from the revenue from our oil and gas. From that perspective, the policies coming from Washington DC make absolutely no sense and, quite frankly border on insanity.
Source: 2022 State of the State Address to the Alaska legislature
Jan 25, 2022
Mike Dunleavy:
Alaska should remain oil & gas giant for another 45 years
The Trans-Alaska Pipeline System has operated for nearly 45 years as the backbone of our economy. It has transformed Alaska into the modern state that it is. The pipeline provides energy, revenue, and jobs for our state, and it provides national
security for the United States as well. I envision an Alaska that remains an oil and gas giant with a pipeline that operates for at least another 45 years to underwrite the cost of government, our renewable potential, and secure our energy independence.
Source: 2022 State of the State Address to the Alaska legislature
Jan 25, 2022
Mike Dunleavy:
Exemption from regulations for renewable energy projects
SB69: "An Act extending an exemption from regulation as a public utility for plants and facilities generating electricity entirely from renewable energy resources."The Alaska Center Summary: A bill which would help decrease obstacles fo
Independent Power Producers to create renewable energy projects and get clean energy on transmission grids.
Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 18-2-0 on Mar/31/21; Passed House 36-1-3 on May/7/21; Signed by Gov. Dunleavy on Aug/16/21.
Source: Alaska State Legislature voting records SB69
Aug 16, 2021
Ray Metcalfe:
Promote alternative fuels; but open parts of ANWR
Metcalfe supports the following principles regarding environment and energy: - Promote increased use of alternative fuel technology.
- Use state funds to clean up former industrial and commercial sites that are contaminated, unused or abandoned.
- Q: Do you support opening a select portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration?
A: Yes. - Q: Should state environmental regulations be stricter than federal law?
A: Yes.
Source: Alaska Congressional 2002 National Political Awareness Test
Nov 1, 2002
Sarah Palin:
Fully fund the Petroleum Systems Integrity Office
Governor Sarah Palin today strongly urged lawmakers to restore critical funding for the Petroleum Systems Integrity Office (PSIO), which exercises oversight of the maintenance of facilities, equipment and infrastructure for sustained production and
transportation of oil and natural gas resources in Alaska. "I'm disappointed that House Finance subcommittee members removed $523,000 in funding for PSIO from my budget. Facing the prospect of the largest construction project in
North America, a natural gas pipeline, we must demonstrate to Alaskans and the nation that we provide sound oversight of the systems that are needed to develop our resources. I am hopeful the full Finance Committee will restore funding for critical
PSIO positions needed to accomplish this mission." The money would fund personnel for investigation of system integrity breaches and implementation of a statewide quality assurance program.
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: press release, "Funding Restored"
Feb 25, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Submitted legislation to build natural AGIA gas pipeline
Governor Palin submitted the Alaska Gasline Inducement Act (AGIA) to the Legislature on her 89th day in office. The legislation will act as a vehicle to get a natural gas pipeline built and bring the state's substantial gas reserves to market.
The AGIA offers a number of inducements for those who hold gas leases and for those who want to build the line. In return, the state will provide a matching capital contribution and insist on the state's must-haves: project benchmarks, gas for
Alaskans, expansion capabilities, and jobs for Alaskans. The state is committed to ensuring that Alaskans will be trained and ready to build the gasline. Governor Palin recently traveled to
Washington D.C., where she received encouragement for the AGIA from Alaska's Congressional Delegation, FERC officials and members of the Bush Administration.
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: press release, "100th Day"
Mar 13, 2007
Sarah Palin:
$250M for proven alternative energy, including wind & hydro
We need a comprehensive approach to long-term energy plans, not just fiscal "shots-in-the-arm." I'm appointing an Energy Coordinator, to activate a statewide Energy Plan. We'll use earnings from a $250 million "Renewable Energy Fund" for alternative
projects, like hydro, wind, geothermal, and biomass. These projects cannot even flirt with snake-oil science--they will be real, doable, and economic. Alaska's plan can lead America toward energy security and a cleaner, safer world.
Source: 2008 State of the State Address to 25th Alaska Legislature
Jan 15, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Gas pipelines are approved if they meet Alaska's needs
An example of our self-determination is our natural gas pipeline vehicle: AGIA. AGIA's competitive process is built on Alaska's "must-haves." Finally we will have an "open access" gasline so new explorers can produce new reserves, providing in-state use
of our gas and careers for Alaskans. Without AGIA's requirements, we'd be leveraged by a small group of companies. We can't surrender revenue, judicial process and our sovereignty. A respected pipeline construction company,
TransCanada, submitted a proposal that meets all of Alaska's requirements. AGIA cleared the path for our gas to feed hungry local markets and to help secure the country with a safe, stable, and domestic supply of clean energy.
An AGIA license gets the ball rolling on our terms--and opens the door to innovative and strategic partnerships. We are reasonable and open to those partnerships that, at the end of the day, will get that long-awaited gas line built.
Source: 2008 State of the State Address to 25th Alaska Legislature
Jan 15, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Resource rebate: suspend AK 8-cent fuel tax for one year
I'm pleased to report to Alaskans that in early August, our Alaska Legislature agreed to approve a one-time resource rebate that returns part of our resource wealth to Alaskans --the owners in common of these resources. The rebate will be a direct
payment of $1,200 to each Alaskan eligible for the 2008 Permanent Fund Dividend. The resource rebate was part of a larger energy package that also includes a 50% increase in the maximum loan amount for bulk fuel bridge and bulk fuel revolving loan funds
to communities and cooperatives. Additionally, it suspends the state's 8-cent motor fuel tax on gasoline, marine fuel and aviation fuel for one year and strengthens the Power Cost Equalization Program.Our lawmakers also included an additional
$60 million for the Home Energy Rebate Program operated by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation and $50 million in grant funds to the Renewable Energy Fund, bringing the total available for renewable energy projects in FY 2009 to $100 million.
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: August 2008 Newsletter
Aug 20, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Gasline Inducement Act: 1,715-mile natural gas pipeline
On Aug. 1, the legislature awarded TC Alaska the AGIA license to move forward and build Alaska's natural gas pipeline. The Legislature also authorized my administration to award the Alaska Gasline Inducement Act license to TransCanada
Alaska to initiate development of a 1,715-mile natural gas pipeline from Prudhoe Bay on the North Slope to the Alberta Hub in Canada. Lawmakers also appropriated $35.5 million for gas pipeline expenditures.
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: August 2008 Newsletter
Aug 20, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Commercialize Alaska's North Slope natural gas
Governor Sarah Palin today signed Administrative Order 242, directing the state Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Revenue to work cooperatively with any organization or entity committed to commercializing Alaska's North
Slope natural gas."This solidifies our commitment to facilitating an LNG project that is a product of market interest," Governor Palin said. "By committing both project capital and natural gas resources to a pipeline that would transport
North Slope natural gas to tidewater, an LNG project can remain an integral element of the state's effort to deliver Alaska's gas to market."
Specifically, the Administrative Order instructs the two departments to provide specific kinds of support to
those pursuing development of an economically and technically viable liquefied natural gas project. That support includes permitting coordination, fiscal and economic analysis, and facilitation of meetings with federal agencies.
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: press release, "Admin. Order 242"
Aug 20, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Agrees with Obama on more Alaska oil & gas production
Gov. Sarah Palin today responded to the energy plan put forward by the presumptive Democratic nominee for President, Illinois Senator Barack Obama. "I am pleased to see Senator Obama acknowledge the huge potential Alaska's natural gas reserves represent
in terms of clean energy and sound jobs," Governor Palin said. In a speech given in Lansing, Michigan, Senator Obama called for the completion of the Alaska natural gas pipeline, stating, "Over the next five years, we should also lease more of the
National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska for oil and gas production. And we should also tap more of our substantial natural gas reserves and work with the Canadian government to finally build the Alaska natural gas pipeline, delivering clean natural gas
and creating good jobs in the process."
Gov. Palin said, "This is a tool that must be on the table to buy us time until our long-term energy plans can be put into place, and it is gratifying to see Senator Obama get on board."
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: press release, "Obama Energy Plan"
Aug 4, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Windfall oil profits tax prevents investment
Palin [supported Obama's energy proposal but] questioned the means to pay for Obama's proposed rebate--a windfall profits tax on oil companies. In Alaska, the state's resource valuation system, ACES, provides strong incentives for companies to re-invest
their profits in new production."Windfall profits taxes alone prevent additional investment in domestic production. Without new supplies from American reserves, our dependency and addiction to foreign sources of oil will continue," Palin said.
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: press release, "Obama Energy Plan"
Aug 4, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Met with producers and employee groups for pipeline deal
Q: Will you limit your negotiations on the gas pipeline to the producers or will you reopen discussions with others?KNOWLES: I would look to all of the proposals to see what is the best deal for Alaska. The next governor is going to have to sit down
with Alaska business leaders, members of the oil and gas industry and others to negotiate an Alaska gas line on Alaska's terms. Sarah has refused to meet with the executives and employees of ConocoPhillips, BP, Alyeska, with the regional CEOs of the
Native corporations. I believe that we cannot afford to have a governor who is AWOL. You cannot delegate leadership.
PALIN: That is an untruthful statement. I've met with Exxon; with ConocoPhillips; with the BP employee group.
So, that's not true.
PALIN: That is an untruthful statement. I've met with Exxon. I've met with ConocoPhillips. I've met with the BP employee group and the ConocoPhillips folks. Heck, I have the endorsement of the North Slope union hands up there.
Source: Alaska 2006 Governor Debate: at Anchorage Rotary
Oct 31, 2006
Sarah Palin:
Chaired the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission
The Natural Gas Pipeline- Sarah is the one with experience and energy to move Alaska forward!
- Sarah Palin will use her experience as Chairman of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation
Commission to negotiate a fair gas pipeline agreement that puts Alaska first and creates jobs for all Alaskans.
Source: Palin-Parnell campaign booklet: New Energy for Alaska
Nov 3, 2006
Sarah Palin:
Pursue gasline plan that is best for ALL Alaskans
My Administration will pursue the gasline plan that is best for ALL Alaskans. All qualified & viable proposals & applicants will be considered. How do we get there? First, we acknowledge that the Stranded Gas Development Act (SGDA) no longer applies.
The producers want to amend the SGDA to fit their proposed contract within the technical confines of that law. However, the Legislature's own experts have testified that the gas can no longer be deemed "stranded" due to long-term economic conditions.
Source: Palin-Parnell campaign booklet: New Energy for Alaska
Nov 3, 2006
Sarah Palin:
Exxon-Mobil should pay $507 million for Exxon Valdez spill
Gov. Palin today encouraged Exxon Mobil to pay the $507 million in punitive damages plus interest awarded by the US Supreme Court to 32,000 plaintiffs in the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill lawsuit. "These people have suffered long enough,"
Gov. Palin said. "While Exxon may have the ability to delay payments, I strongly encourage them to bring this sad chapter in our history to a long-overdue conclusion.
It is time to end the misery so everyone can move on."The Governor is hopeful plaintiffs will receive payments this fall. So far, though,
Exxon has not indicated whether it will cut checks to plaintiffs right away, or seek further reductions in the award as the case goes back to the lower courts.
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: Press release 08-106, "Exxon"
Jul 1, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Bush is right: drill ANWR & develop our own supplies
Gov. Sarah Palin released the following statement after Pres. Bush renewed his call to open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration in the face of surging gasoline prices: "Pres. Bush is right. Across the nation, communities are feeling
the pinch of high energy costs. It is absurd that we are borrowing from one foreign country to buy oil from another. It is a threat to our national security and economic well-being. It is well past time for America to develop our own supplies."
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: Press release 8-068, "ANWR"
Apr 29, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Energy relief plan: $100 per person monthly, for oil & gas
Returning surplus funds through grants to electric utilities will result in a 60% reduction for all ratepayers. The benefit will flow to homeowners, renters, schools, governments and businesses. In addition, there will be conservation incentives for
the utilities. For every 1% reduction in 2008 kilowatt hour sales from 2007 sales, the state will make a year-end contribution for capital energy projects to the utility.
The Energy Debit Card will go out to every qualifying [Alaska resident]. The
benefit will be $100 per month per recipient. The temporary Energy Debit Card can be used for purchases from Alaska energy vendors, such as heating oil distributors, natural gas utilities, electric utilities, gas stations & other retail fueling stations.
The value of this plan is approximately $1.2 billion. The grant to electric utilities is expected to be $475 million, while the Energy Debit Card totals are forecast to be $729 million. The Governor has proposed this energy relief plan for one year.
Source: Alaska Governor's Office: Press release 08-074 "Energy Plan"
May 15, 2008
Sarah Palin:
Sues federal EPA for misusing Endangered Species Act
As the largest and only Arctic state, we're studying climate-change through our DEC-led subcabinet. And we're suing the federal government for misusing the Endangered Species Act. There is an attempt there to use the
ESA to impose environmental policies that should be debated and approved legislatively, not by court order or bureaucratic decree. Alaskans have shown through our protective laws that we're willing and able to protect our magnificent wildlife,
while developing our God-given resources, by using conservation laws as they were intended. We'll challenge abuse of federal law when it's used just to lock up Alaska.Vital projects now underway show how much science and technology have
improved in a generation, greatly reducing risk to the environment. Continued work in Cook Inlet and on the North Slope, new drilling at Nikaitchug, new exploration in NPRA--these projects and more will be carried out with the safest methods.
Source: Alaska 2009 State of the State Address
Jan 22, 2009
Sarah Palin:
Goal of 50% of Alaska electric power from renewable sources
Previously, we've relied on a diminishing gas supply from Cook Inlet, and expensive diesel, and a mix of government subsidies, and not enough conservation--but that is not sustainable. And it shouldn't take another spike in energy costs to stir us into
action. Alaska will help achieve energy independence and security for our country, and we can lead with a long-needed energy plan for America. But let us begin with energy security for ourselves. This includes meeting my goal of generating
50% of our electric power with renewable sources. That's an unprecedented policy across the US but we're the state that can do it with our abundant renewables, and with Alaskan ingenuity.
In our energy plan, for the first time,
Alaskans will see cooperation among our utilities. We'll introduce legislation creating the joint utility corporation to finally accomplish this. We will have coordinated power generation that will finally make sense for consumers.
Source: Alaska 2009 State of the State Address
Jan 22, 2009
Scott McAdams:
Unequivocally in support of offshore drilling
On the issue of offshore drilling, McAdams said he unequivocally was in support of it, and that it is in fact the most environmentally conscientious choice due to the high drilling operations standards in the US, as opposed to other places in the world
where the country turns to for oil. McAdams added that as a candidate he had drafted a letter to Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar asking him to lift the moratorium on offshore drilling, noting that the jobs are vitally important to state residents.
When the topic turned to regional hydroelectric projects, McAdams said the most important
goal was to aid local communities in getting affordable energy, and that he would fight for federal funding.
Miller agreed that energy projects needed to move forward, but that federal regulatory burdens would make projects less likely to happen.
Source: Capital City Weekly coverage of 2010 Alaska Senate debate
Sep 22, 2010
Sean Randall Parnell:
Reduce EPA red tape on Arctic Outer Continental Shelf
Federal agencies engage in subtle ways of stifling Alaska's economy. Take the EPA for example. Five years after completing its paperwork with the EPA, one company is still trying to get an air permit to explore the Arctic Outer Continental Shelf. Five ye
Why, then, are similar permits routinely granted in the Gulf of Mexico in a matter of months? The EPA has no answer. Red tape is a needless drag on our economy. It's inefficient, and it comes at great cost to
Alaska, where we are still working hard to build out our most basic road system. For most of the Lower 48, the relationship between the states and the federal government was established 100, even 200 years ago.
In Alaska, we are still defining that relationship, and "they're still not returning our calls." We demand to be treated as a state, not as a colony.
Source: 2011 Alaska State of the State Address
Jan 19, 2011
Sean Randall Parnell:
Strike balance between ocean protection and oil production
The federal government hyperextends its reach by proposing to zone the oceans. They call it "marine spatial planning." But the wild and shifting seas were never meant to be defined by little square boxes of regulated activity. National oceans policy
should be rational, should recognize the important role of coastal states, and should strike a balance between our ocean protection and commercial activities, like our fisheries and oil and gas production.
Source: Alaska 2010 State of the State Address
Jan 20, 2010
Sean Randall Parnell:
Outer Continental Shelf will create 35,000 jobs and $72B
For three decades, oil has substantially funded our state treasury, and provided jobs and income to thousands of Alaskans. And then there is the future of further oil and gas discoveries in Alaska's Outer Continental Shelf, and maybe even one day--ANWR.
Alaskans need the estimated 35 thousand jobs and $72 billion dollars in payroll that responsible OCS development would create. I have made exploring and developing the OCS our priority.
Source: Alaska 2010 State of the State Address
Jan 20, 2010
Sean Randall Parnell:
Build the Alaska gasline to extract natural gas
I ask you to join me [via the Alaska Gasline Inducement Act] in refilling Alaska's pipeline to prosperity. We will grow Alaska's economy by accessing our abundant natural gas. Our state has more than 200 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in the ground.
This gas represents cheaper heating fuel for Alaska homes and Alaska businesses, and these reserves can energize and grow Alaska's economy. But before we can realize these benefits, a gasline must be built to bring these reserves to market.
Source: Alaska 2012 State of the State Address
Jan 18, 2012
Sean Randall Parnell:
Reform tax proposals to foster new oil production
As we debate tax reforms, we will judge any proposal based on four questions:- Are the changes fair to Alaskans?
- Will they foster new oil production?
- Will they simplify and restore balance to our fiscal system?
-
And, will the changes make us competitive not only for this year but for years ahead?
If you pass legislation that answers these four questions, you won't have to ask for my answer, because you will get my signature.
Source: 2013 State of the State address to 28th Alaska Legislature
Jan 16, 2013
Tony Knowles:
Include producers & all proposals in negotiating pipeline
Q: Will you limit your negotiations on the gas pipeline to the producers or will you reopen discussions with others?KNOWLES: I would look to all of the proposals to see what is the best deal for Alaska. And there is a clear difference between Sarah an
myself. This is a pivotal time. The next governor is going to have to sit down with Alaska business leaders, members of the oil and gas industry and others to negotiate an Alaska gas line on Alaska's terms. I've asked Sarah what experience she has in
negotiating a project and she says she doesn't pretend to have the expertise and would hire people. Well, this is a pivotal point. Sarah has refused to meet with the executives and employees of ConocoPhillips, BP, Alyeska, with the regional CEOs of the
Native corporations. I believe that we cannot afford to have a governor who is AWOL. You cannot delegate leadership.
PALIN: That is an untruthful statement. I've met with Exxon; with ConocoPhillips; with the BP employee group. So, that's not true.
Source: Alaska 2006 Governor Debate: at Anchorage Rotary
Oct 31, 2006
Tony Knowles:
Qualified support of BP-Arco merger
Three times Knowles asked Palin if she supported the Katie John subsistence decision (she never answered). Three times Palin asked Knowles if he supported the BP/Arco merger (he finally answered with a qualified yes).
After a seemingly innocuous first round, Palin put Knowles on the ropes by pummeling him with questions about the BP-Arco merger. It was her most impressive sparring of the campaign, and she won the round by sounding knowledgeable but not nasty.
Source: Alaska 2006 Governor Debate: ADN coverage of radio debate
Nov 3, 2006
Edgar Blatchford:
Epicenter for climate change is rural areas of Alaska
Blatchford said Congress should be working to address climate change. "The epicenter of global climate change is in the rural areas of Alaska. It's on the North Slope.
It's along the Yukon, along the Kuskokwim [river]. I, and in my lifetime, I, like anybody else who's been living in Alaska for even a short time, 10 years, can see that there are changes in climate."
Source: Indian Country Today on 2022 Alaska Senate race
Aug 12, 2022
Pat Chesbro:
Harness the great potential for renewable energy
New products and processes can help diminish our dependence on fossil fuels for transportation, heating, and the manufacture of plastics and other disposable materials. Alaska can be a laboratory for small and localized renewable energy.
I will fight for solutions that harness the great potential for renewable energy in Alaska and America.
Source: 2022 Alaska Senate campaign website ChesbroForAlaska.com
Oct 7, 2022
Page last updated: Feb 18, 2023