This 2012 report clarifies the current state of production, fuel transportation, and consumption of energy in rural Alaska and offers long-term, viable, cost-effective solutions to those challenges.

Transportation and energy infrastructure development in Alaska is at a crossroads. The vitality of the economy and the well-being of Alaskans are at stake. Decisive action must be taken now to develop integrated systems.

The Board of Directors and members engaged in a seventeen week targeted study that evaluated the primary public policy concerns associated with Alaska’s oil tax structure. It was determined that the current oil production tax adversely affects investment in oil production on the North Slope and progressivity should be modified.

Commonwealth North commissioned this study to evaluate solutions and facilitate dialogue relevant to energy policy throughout Alaska and develop guidelines and recommendations for a secure energy future. Alaska is rich in natural energy sources and yet many Alaskans struggle to meet rising energy costs.

The Governor, his staff and consultants have worked over two years to negotiate a contract with the major gas producers to bring the North Slope gas to market. Agreements included in the proposed contract raise several major public policy issues for the State of Alaska.

Richard Barnes and Lee Gorsuch co-chaired a study group formed to identify issues associated with Alaska’s interests in North Slope gas commercialization. The study group focused on significant public policy issues within the power of the State of Alaska to address. The Group avoided making specific ﾓhow toﾔ recommendations.

A study of the proposed natural gas pipeline. Both the cross-Canada and all-American plans are discussed. This study re-examines the issues raised in the 11/81 natural gas study.

Intended as an interim statement on the issue, this report examines the difficulties in getting Alaska’s natural gas to market.

An answer to dwindling domestic energy production and foreign oil dependency. Development of Alaska’s ample natural resources would provide a solution to the energy gap of the 1980's.