Repower Alaska

Hello from George and Cassandra Sikat

We appreciate all the public comments made on the idea of developing a 120 acre business park dedicated to energy related careers for Alaskans. The Mat-Su Borough (Mat-Su Borough website) is where we hope to break ground. Weatherization techniques, wind turbine, solar power systems, hydro power, geothermal, diesel engine retrofits, gas line career development and arctic energy development will be some of the training available. We will build a skilled workforce responsive to industry demand. Energy efficient homes and buildings fitted with renewable energy systems will be on display for the public to visit. The business park itself will have renewable energy systems to offset the heating and electricity bills.

Basically we feel that if energy related training programs and projects were developed in one location, communications and face to face discussions would be more efficient and help put Alaska's energy needs and marketability on the fast track. Technologies developed on the campus will be marketed world wide. Careers in the retrofitting of our energy grid will become available.
Our intent with this business park is to create job and career opportunities strengthening Alaska's economy.

Please email a comment to the Alaska Legislature, here is the website Alaska Legislature

Please Blog us your comments and concerns about this project. or click here to email

Public Comment Received

John D, Palmer Alaska, December 18, 2008
"Employment opportunities are always welcome here in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. Renewable energy projects are needed and I wish you well with all the various projects you have going on, and in finding a suitable site for a renewable energy campus"

Deanna G, Wasilla , January 10, 2009
"I think it is absolutely terrific and we need to play catch up. I am ready to work! Another idea is to keep all the building material out of the landfill and let people reuse it."

John K, Palmer, Alaska, January 12, 2009
"This is exactly where new jobs will be coming from Obama says 1 trillion in government infrastructure over next 2-3 years, certainly this has a better ROI then a billion dollar bridge?"

Annette M, Wasilla, January 13, 2009
"What are you waiting for... Go for it. Wind would be great out here. The mat-su welcomes you. "

Crystal H. Anchorage, Alaska, January 15, 2009
"I'm excited to hear about this project concept! Go team!"

Todd B, Anchorage, January 15,2009
"I am greatly in favor of an "all of the above" energy policy in the U.S.. It is great to see it started at the grassroots in the private sector. The first step to any change will be through adequate education. Keep up the good work."

Bob K, Alaska, January 16, 2009
" I love the vision of your project and hope you can bring it to fruition."

Charles B. Texas, January 16,2008
George: The comments are all very encouraging and I hope the new administration does follow through on its promises of pushing alternative energy solutions. I am seeing more homes in my neighborhood becoming outfitted with solar power. The trend seems to be continuing to grow. I heard recently that the price of solar has come down 40% over the past year (true??), which should help to make it more affordable and realistic to the masses. The energy park concept is the right idea at the right time. Now, just the money and talent to make it all happen...

Rene L, Palmer, Alaska, January 16, 2009
"You have created a great website with lots of good information. With the next Administration there will be great opportunities in this field, we need to know how we can tie into those grants and incentive programs that they will offer to encourage us to go green. If you can lead the way by identifying the various programs in this area and show businesses and individuals how to apply for the programs I think your business will grow even more. Regarding your ideas for the renewable energy business park: I think it is a great idea as long as it is affordable for the students who will attend. Again they need to see that these systems work here in Palmer, Wasilla and Alaska and they need to see a way to pay for the education and the alternative energy solutions sought. I believe your business is positioned to benefit from the next big stimulus program that will most certainly pass through Congress, regardless of whether we as a Nation can pay for it or not, that doesn't seem to matter to anyone at the moment. If your business can create jobs and alternative energy solutions then you should be able to get the additional financial support. I'd check it out and be ready to seize the opportunity. Best Wishes, Rene LeMay Additional ideas that have come to mind: Have you thought about trying to encourage a small subdivision to pool their resources to finance an alternative energy system that benefits them? Are there examples of small communities/subdivisions doing that here or elsewhere? Perhaps this type of idea again could tie into the grants and incentive programs that will be offered."

Hannah said...January 18, 2009 10:35 AM
I think this is a wonderful idea. We are a world that is trying to go green and this would help open up that door. Our two older boys are currently attending CTH in the valley, this would be a great opportunity for them and many others.

Greg H, Palmer, Alaska January 18, 2009
Every had one of those thoughts you believed was all your own only to find others are thinking along similar lines at the same time? It's sometimes like the 100th Monkey social change theory (http://www.wowzone.com/monkey.htm).
There are as many and more ways to success as there are successful enterprises. The most critical ingredient is typically, timing. So, with the current political, financial, and energy issues, I believe your timing is right on target. I say this as one of the 100 monkeys reacting to much of the same stimulus and awareness.
George, the timing is right and you are in the right place at the right time. Dare to think and dream really big.

Herman said... January 22, 2009 6:22 PM

We are in a time in our country when we need forward looking visions of saving, inovating, and developing precious energy equipmeent and techniques to further the comfort and security for our families. I would like to also see a part of the project dedicated to high performance insulating materials and techniques to prevent air infultration in our homes. Good Luck to Matsu Energy in this wonderful project!

Tracy A. Anchorage, Alaska 1:33AM January 25, 2009

This is a fabulous idea and the time is right with this new administration. Thank you so much for your organization and mobilization! I would love to be part of your green design team! Please let me know how I can help.