Since none of the locations was a part of a large intertie system, power requirements also included cold-start capabilities. In all cases, it was assumed that the communities would use coal to provide baseload capacity and that existing diesel generating capacity would be used to provide both cold-start capabilities and peaking capacity. The top three locations selected for more detailed analysis were Bethel, Nome, and Unalaska. Access is by air or water only. The port of Bethel is the northernmost medium-draft port in the United States, allowing for easy barge access to deliver coal.
Access is by water and air.
The port of Nome can accommodate vessels up to 18 feet of draft. The name Dutch Harbor is often applied to the portion of the city on Amaknak Island that is connected to Unalaska Island by bridge. Dutch Harbor is actually within the boundaries of the city of Unalaska. The port of Unalaska ranks No. 1 in the nation for seafood volume and value. In Phase 1, sites at McGrath and Tok were considered for a solid fuel-fired FBC power system.