Federal regulators are seeking public feedback on Juneau’s new hydroelectric dam project that aims to provide additional electrical reliability to meet the city’s growing electric demand.
The Juneau Empire reports that members of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission arrived in Juneau Wednesday to hear public feedback on the Sweetheart Lake Hydroelectric Project draft environmental statement. Three people provided testimony during the meetings, including Mayor Mary Becker. All spoke in favor of the proposed dam.
The project includes a 111-foot-tall concrete dam with overland and undersea cables connecting a powerhouse to existing power transmission lines.
Alaska Electric Light and Power has previously raised several concerns with the project, including its effect on rates and whether Juneau’s electrical grid can support a new dam.
The public comment period ends Dec. 29.
