Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sean Parnell announced yesterday he will sign legislation that provides additional funding for community revenue sharing. An additional $25 million is included for revenue sharing, which will increase community funding to $85 million in Fiscal Year 2013.

“Many communities are struggling with the high cost of fuel,” Governor Parnell said. “These additional dollars will help communities across the state provide vital services to their residents.”

Communities also benefit from more than $67 million in state funding for the Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) unfunded liability incurred by municipalities.

Governor Signs Renewable Energy Fund Reauthorization

Governor Parnell today signed House Bill 250, reauthorizing the Renewable Energy Grant Fund Program through 2018. Since the program’s inception in 2008, it has issued grants for more than 200 renewable energy projects across the state.

With an emphasis on making grants accessible to those with the highest energy costs, the program has demonstrated that investing in renewables can lower the cost of energy for many small communities that are otherwise totally dependent on diesel fuel. Governor Parnell and legislators set a goal to have Alaska generating 50 percent of its electricity from renewable energy by 2025.

“These grants are worthy investments in our communities,” Governor Parnell said. “The renewable energy grants are already making a measurable difference in the quality of life across Alaskan communities where diesel fuel has been the sole source of heating and electricity.”

The governor also recognized Representatives Bill Thomas, Peggy Wilson and Charisse Millett for sponsoring HB 250.

Source: Office of Governor Parnell