Anchorage, AK – In order to advance discussions about sharing low cost power with the Bristol Bay region, the Pebble Limited Partnership (PLP) released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an appropriate entity to craft a framework for how to ensure the Bristol Bay region can share in low cost energy that will be made available to communities from the development of a mine at the Pebble site.
In the RFP, Pebble notes it will soon complete a major milestone for the project with the completion of the federal permitting process and wants to take steps to add detail to their commitment to share reliable and affordable energy with the region. Pebble is seeking an appropriate entity to take a leadership role in beginning the collaboration between local government, utilities, and residents on how Pebble can deliver low-cost power to communities across the region. Partnership and communication among these entities is a crucial aspect for successfully advancing a plan to bring the potential for electricity and natural gas to Bristol Bay. The RFP seeks proposals from a third-party group, business, local or state government, regional entity, or contractor to undertake the work on a strategic framework for delivering low cost energy.
Pebble’s project design includes the potential energy needs for the region. Pebble estimates 270MW of power would be produced from a power plant at site. The plant will be powered with natural gas that will reach the site through a 12-inch natural gas pipeline.
“Our core business is focused on mining and we know we will need help advancing the power conversation in the region from an idea to a realistic plan,” said PLP CEO Tom Collier. “Thus, what we really need is a strategic framework to guide decisions and to pull together a plan of action for how best to share affordable energy with local communities.”
The RFP seeks a qualified bidder to facilitate discussions with local government, local utilities, tribal organizations, interested Bristol Bay residents, appropriate state and federal entities, and other regional organizations about the range of issues and opportunities the proposed power sharing concept presents.
The Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision for Pebble are expected to be completed this summer. Collier noted as the project continues to pass major milestones that stakeholders can expect to see the company taking concrete steps on a range of issues long discussed. By example, PLP recently announced a profit-sharing plan for Bristol Bay residents.