AK HB219

Amends AS 42.45.045(d) to require the authority to prioritize renewable energy grants to areas with above-average energy costs, with significant weight given to statewide balance of funds and verified matching funds available for projects.

Changes language from applicants being "able to make" matching funds to applicants having "verified to the authority that are available" matching funds to increase accountability.

Adds requirement for the authority to consider projects likely to have financial benefits exceeding the amount of grant funds received as an evaluation criterion.

Requires the authority to demand activity reports from each funded project at intervals determined by the authority.

Mandates the authority contract with a renewable energy economist to evaluate each recommended project and submit evaluation results to the legislature.