As an energy state for the nation, what our state does has a ripple effect throughout. Are we going to use our natural gas wealth to be a bridge to a clean sustainable energy future or are we going to tap our large reserves of coal - approx. 40 percent of the nation’s known reserves - to become the Saudi Arabia of coal? Or are we going to lead the nation in renewable energy (large PDF) production and be the first state to achieve 50 percent electrical generation from renewables by 2025? These are not hypothetical questions but questions that need answers as Alaska is at a critical crossroads. As such, much of our program work is geared toward this energy-climate change-coal nexus.
Alaska’s political landscape is shifting. During the 2008 legislative 
session a strong bipartisan effort created a path toward a more secure energy future through the passage and commitment of $300 million for the Renewable Energy Fund. This year we can once again work with a bipartisan Senate coalition and favorable House of Representatives to forge ahead with long term, sustainable jobs from renewable energy sources, ensuring that we don’t take the backwards path of business as usual emphasizing fossil fuels.
Given Alaska’s prominence on climate change and energy issues it is 
essential to have a coordinated campaign that steers Alaska toward a long term energy policy, highlighting the importance of new job creation, lowering energy costs and energy demand through renewable energy development and energy conservation. Polling shows that Alaskans have viewed the economy and energy as the top issues making now a critical time to establish our message on promoting a clean energy jobs intensive future for Alaska.
Through the Crossroads Campaign, the Alaska Conservation Alliance will:
- Work toward a long term energy plan for Alaska that incorporates energy efficiency, and renewable energy development.
- Incorporate the need for Alaska to do its part in lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
- Educate Alaskans about Alaska's coal developments.
