Nathan Minnema

Golden Valley Electric Association is considering upgrading or replacing its Battery Electric Storage System, or BESS. Golden Valley uses the big battery mainly to prevent blackouts. But  the BESS is nearing the end of its useful life.

Golden Valley Electric Association is asking for proposals on how the utility could generate more electricity with renewable-energy sources, like wind and solar. The goal is to reduce the Golden Valley’s greenhouse gas emissions without affecting its ability to produce electricity reliably, with few blackouts. And, to do all that with minimum impact on ratepayers’ monthly bills.

The owner of a wind farm in Delta Junction has proposed building a larger facility to produce up to 42 megawatts and selling the electricity to Golden Valley Electric Association. Golden Valley officials say they’re studying the proposal.

Golden Valley Electric Association highlighted the utility’s new solar-energy array and its other renewable-energy efforts during Thursday’s annual members meeting. Completed last fall, it’s the biggest solar farm in Alaska, designed to power 70 homes. And now that it's spring, Golden Valley will finally be able to assess its performance.