Powering Juneau's Future: Hydropower, Growth, and the Second Crossing
From First Things First by First Things First Alaska Foundation
June 6, 2026 · 40 min · Episode 16
About this episode
A discussion on Juneau's hydroelectric system and its impact on future growth and energy infrastructure.
In this episode of First Things First, AEL&P President and CEO Alec Mesdag joins the conversation to discuss Juneau's unique hydroelectric system, the history and safety of the Salmon Creek Dam, and how energy infrastructure factors into the community's future growth. The discussion explores the proposed second crossing, Juneau's capacity for economic expansion, major utility investments, rate increases, and the challenges of balancing affordable electricity with long-term planning. It's an insightful look at the systems that keep Juneau running and what it will take to power the next generation of development.
People in this episode
Guest: Alec Mesdag
Topics covered
- hydropower
- energy infrastructure
- community growth
- economic expansion
- utility investments
- affordable electricity
Keywords
- Juneau
- hydropower
- Salmon Creek Dam
- energy infrastructure
- economic expansion
- utility investments
- affordable electricity
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: AEL&P
Places: Juneau, Salmon Creek Dam
More episodes of First Things First
- Mining Month Spotlight: Inside Kensington Mine & the Future of Alaska Mining · May 2, 2026 · 35 min
- The Future of Alaska Seafood: Fisheries, Kelp Farming & Mariculture Growth · March 31, 2026 · 34 min
- Second Crossing, First Priority: Planning Juneau’s Future · February 7, 2026 · 31 min
- Cascade Point: Connecting Southeast Alaska in 2026 · January 3, 2026 · 12 min
- Juneau Affordability” & the MIZ Wi-Fi RFP Controversy · December 13, 2025 · 34 min
- Ballot Measures & Juneau Affordability (Vote by Oct 7) · October 4, 2025 · 34 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the First Things First podcast page.