Description
The State of Alaska is proposing to issue a 10‑year, non‑competitive lease (ADL 234829) and a concurrent private, non‑exclusive easement (ADL 234823) to McRoberts Creek Hydro (MCH) for the construction, operation, and maintenance of a 240 kW run‑of‑river hydroelectric facility near Palmer, Alaska. The lease covers approximately 1.61 acres (intake and powerhouse site) while the easement covers about 5.85 acres for the penstock, underground cable, and access trail. The project will generate roughly 300 kW of annual energy for the Matanuska Electric Association, supporting state carbon‑reduction goals. Key requirements include a minimum annual rent of $1,000, a $6,000 performance guaranty, and compliance with environmental, wildlife, and public‑trust doctrines. The lease term is 10 years with options for renewal, sub‑leasing (subject to approval), and assignment. The public comment period ends 11:59 PM Oct 15 2026; the lease will be finalized after the comment period and agency review.
• 10‑year lease of 1.61 acres for intake/powerhouse site.
• Easement for 5.85 acres covering penstock, cable, and trail.
• 240 kW run‑of‑river hydroelectric plant (≈300 kW annual output).
• Minimum annual rent $1,000; $6,000 performance guaranty; $1,000 annual EA fee.
• Required compliance with Alaska wildlife, habitat, and public‑trust regulations.
• Sub‑lease and assignment permitted with DMLW approval.
• Public comment deadline 15 Oct 2026; lease term 10 years.
• Primary contact: Lyncoln Standley, Natural Resource Specialist 2.