Local, state, and federal leaders gathered today in Anchorage for the Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference, a key event focused on the future of energy in the state. Among the major topics of discussion was the expanding potential of nuclear energy, particularly through the use of microreactors.

While nuclear energy has long been considered a possibility for Alaska, officials and industry experts now say microreactors may be the most realistic and impactful option. These compact nuclear systems are designed to deliver reliable power to remote areas—something advocates say could transform energy access in rural Alaska.

“You need very reliable power that allows communities to grow with a higher degree of certainty. Businesses grow with higher degree of certainty, and our hope is to be able to support that with reliable energy,” said Brendon Ouimetti of Westinghouse Electric Company.

The microreactors, he added, are being developed with rural Alaska in mind and are expected to help reduce reliance on expensive diesel fuel while providing steady, scalable electricity.

In addition to nuclear options, the conference also spotlighted progress in solar and wind energy. Darren Westby of the Alaska Village Electric Cooperative shared updates on renewable energy projects that are already bringing changes to dozens of villages across the state.

“Solar, wind, and battery storage are being integrated into local microgrids,” Westby said. “The outlook for continuation of solar and renewables in Alaska has its place.”

Westby acknowledged ongoing logistical challenges, including shipping infrastructure to remote locations and dealing with environmental factors like thawing permafrost. Still, he expressed optimism that with the right investment and collaboration, renewable energy will continue to expand in Alaska.

The Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference continues through Thursday, bringing together policymakers, engineers, and community leaders to shape the state’s energy future.