Abstract
The EPRI North American River In-Stream Energy Conversion (RISEC) Power Program is investigating the feasibility of river current power to provide efficient, reliable, environmentally friendly and cost-effective electrical energy. This project is being conducted by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) under the sponsorship of the Alaska Energy Authority, Chugach Electric and Anchorage Municipal and Light.
This document describes the results of the River In-Stream Energy Conversion (RISEC) site characterization for Alaska. This study’s primary focus is on understanding the velocity profiles at various locations, as they have the most significant impact on energy extraction and resulting cost of electricity. In order to accomplish this, EPRI worked very closely with USGS and local contacts through the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA). A substantial amount of local knowledge of site attributes was provided by local contacts.