Beluga Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) Exploration Project for CIRI/Laurus – 2009-2012

Our involvement began in 2009 when Laurus Energy approached AES for advice on where they should focus their attention in Alaska.   They wished to identify and develop power from a proprietary process which captured gas from controlled combustion of underground coal beds.  AES management introduced Laurus Energy to the CIRI Land and Resources Department in late 2009 and following these early meetings a partnership between CIRI and Laurus evolved.  AES was selected to manage the exploration of CIRI lands within the Tyonek-Beluga area on Cook Inlets west shore. Widespread data from past coal and gas exploration was researched and compiled.  Primary target areas were identified and initial field visits was initiated ar narrow the selection of areas to be explored with geophysics and drill holes. The gained momentum quickly and with input from Laurus and its consultants. AES project managers tracked approved budgets and completed progress reports to the CIRI Land and Resource Department.  The project included mobilization of equipment across Cook Inlet in winter, survey and development of snow roads and ice bridges, drill pad clearing and construction, geologic logging, winter seismic surveys with heli-portable blast hole drills, diamond core drilling to 2500 foot depths and rotary drilling with downhole Odex tooling for installation of casing, installation and monitoring of water wells, coordination of air support, camp coordination, community engagement and subcontracting with Tyonek Construction. 

Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project – Energy Services

Alaska Energy Authority

Alaska Earth Sciences (AES) operated as the Logistics Manager for the State of Alaska, Alaska Energy Authority Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Baseline Studies. AES’ coordinated with the 6 other prime contractors, and 30+ subcontractors, to ensure safe and effective execution of geotechnical, hydrologic, biologic and environmental studies within the 100+ mile long Susitna River watershed to assess the viability of hydroelectric power generation. Field efforts were conducted throughout the year and requires extensive hazards communication and emergency response preparedness given the remote nature of various studies.

Photo: Photographer-David Redgrave, featuring repeater station in Susitna River watershed

Mount Spurr

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Ormat Technologies, Inc. conducted geothermal exploration work at Mount Spurr, on the west side of Cook Inlet approximately 80 miles west of Anchorage. Alaska Earth Sciences (AES) provided overall project management, geologists, laborers, camp personnel, mobilization of a large diamond drilling rig and its contractor, all logistics, shipping, and personnel transport. Geologic services provided by AES included well-site geology, core-logging, geological and geochemical sampling, drilling operations management, geothermal resource evaluation, and client field liaison services. AES also coordinated social/cultural/interethnic communication workshops for client employees and subcontractors to improve interaction with local residents, shareholder hires and shareholder-owned vendors and subcontractors. Finally, AES managed and executed the Plug and Abandon effort under the purview of the Alaska Oil & Gas Conservation Commission.

Photo: Mt. Spurr, July 2016. Photo by Michelle Johnson.