Shungnak and Kobuk Power Plants

In 2020, a major overhaul of the Shungnak power plant was completed. Three engines with marine manifolds, three generators, and automated switchgear were installed. The installation not only improved the diesel efficiency and provided for additional heat recovery, but also made it possible to integrate renewable energy generation.

The automated switchgear helps dispatch the new gensets to work in conjunction with power created by a solar array and battery installed by Northwest Arctic Borough. The new programable logic controllers and high-speed communications allow the power stored in the battery to supplement the power created by the diesel generators, and solar array, working as a hybrid system. The Rural Utility Service High Energy Cost Grant program funded this project.

AVEC also received a grant from the Denali Commission.  The remaining funding is to make upgrades to the Kobuk Standby site including insulating the building and floor, installing a diesel-fired boiler, a tank for fuel, and adjusting the fence.  This project is anticipated to be completed in the third quarter of 2024.