Woody Biomass as an Alternative Energy Source for Ft. Yukon, Alaska

Abstract

Using renewable energy to offset or to transition completely from fossil fuels is a global trend. Some countries are moving at a faster pace than others. Motives are usually derived from a concern to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but for the southeast interior Native Alaskan village of Ft. Yukon offsetting diesel fuel use is related to costs associated with its purchase. In this rural village, the Gwitchyaa Zhee Corporation is currently pursuing a project to offset diesel fuel used to heat public buildings to using sustainably harvested woody biomass (woodchips), a resource abundant in their area. The focus of this research set out to ask, “What are the factors that led the village of Fort Yukon to pursue woody biomass as an alternative energy source?” The question derives from an idea that the entire project may be motivated by other reasons aside from high diesel fuel costs. As such interviews and a content analysis of archival materials related to the project were conducted to search for additional motivating factors. This case study demonstrates the connection Indigenous communities are making to renewable and sustainable energy are for numerous reasons, one not always being climate change although evident and experienced in these communities.