Representative
CHRIS TUCK

I want to hear from you, share your thoughts, voice your opinion. Together we will make a difference.

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716 West 4th Avenue; Suite 370
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: 269-0240
Fax: 269-0242

Contact Other Elected Officials:
Senator Mark Begich,
Anchorage Office:
907-271-5915
EMAIL: Sen. Mark Begich

Congressman Don Young,
Anchorage Office:
907-271-5978
EMAIL: Rep. Don Young

Senator Lisa Murkowski,
Anchorage Office:
907-271-3735,
EMAIL: Sen. Lisa Murkowski

Governor Palin's Anchorage office may be reached at 269-7450, or email her at sarah.palin@alaska.gov
You can also visit the state website at www.state.ak.us

Energy for Anchorage
July 6th Enstar Rate Hike Comment Deadline

Dear Neighbor,

     I’ve been watching as gas prices at the pump leap in advance of the holiday weekend, and talking many constituents about how soaring energy costs are hurting hard working families.

     Recently, Enstar Natural Gas announced that it is asking the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA) for yet another rate increase.  Enstar seeks to raise its “base rate,” which is the portion of the rate designed to cover overhead costs and does not include the cost of purchasing the gas from the producers.  This would lead to a 4.7% rate increase for consumers.  Enstar is also proposing to change its billing structure, for all except its largest customers, to what it calls a “single fixed charge rate.” 

Reps Chris Tuck and Pete Peterson talk energy solutions Healy Coal Mine staff during a recent House Energy Committee hearing and investigative trip in the Fairbanks area.

     Consumers can comment on Enstar’s request to the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA) until Monday, July 6th.  Then, the RCA has until July 16th to decide whether to approve the rate hike or conduct a more detailed investigation. 

• You can submit written comments by mail or in person to 701 W 8th Avenue, Suite 300, Anchorage, AK 99501, or online. 
• You must reference “Case Number TA177-4”, and send a copy of your comments to Enstar either by mail to PO Box 190288, Anchorage, AK 99519 or by email. 
• In order to be considered by the RCA, your comments must include a statement that you have sent a copy to Enstar.

     Long-term relief from high energy prices may come from other avenues.  Recently, the State of Alaska updated myself and other lawmaker about the progress on an in-state gas pipeline (“bullet line”) which is one opportunity to provide affordable energy to Anchorage.  According to the latest oil and gas industry briefing to the Legislature, Cook Inlet contains extensive supplies of natural gas.  However, exploration and storage costs are limiting the amount that Anchorage-area utilities can deliver to consumers.  

     Energy costs remain one of the largest issues Alaskans face.  I am committed to exploring every option to help our families affordably heat their homes and businesses. 

     Have a safe and joyous 4th of July, celebrating our country’s freedom.

     Warm Regards,

      Chris Tuck
      Alaska State Representative
      District 29 - Anchorage