Solar Array and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Design

In partnership with Renewable Energy Systems (RES), Kuna led the electrical design of solar array farms and modular battery energy storage systems (BESS) for the communities of Ambler, Noorvik, Kiana, and Selawik. Kuna’s role included delivering 35%, 65%, and 100% design phases, as well as obtaining State Fire Marshal permits for each system. The BESS modules were designed using standard 20-ft connexes, simplifying construction and enabling easy shipment to these remote communities via barge.

Each solar array and battery system was sized to meet the community’s energy needs, allowing for significant diesel savings by enabling the shutdown of diesel generators. Kuna also identified and designed the necessary electrical upgrades to the existing diesel power plants, integrating remote monitoring and control systems to manage the hybrid solar-diesel operations.

Site selection and planning were conducted in close collaboration with the borough, and Kuna prepared detailed civil site plans for the borough’s Title 9 permit applications. With recent funding awarded by the Department of Energy, the borough is moving forward with the construction of these systems, marking a significant step towards their energy goal of reducing imported diesel use by 50% by 2050.