ARCTIC - An Office of Naval Research Initiative


Funded by ONR and augmented by other federal and state funding sources, the ARCTIC program is constantly evolving to meet Alaska’s energy research needs and advance sustainable & community-approved solutions.

Photo by: Amanda Byrd

Research Objectives

The current objectives of the ARCTIC program are focused on:

Proving the feasibility of innovative, Arctic-ready energy solutions

Building local expertise to address energy transition challenges

Expanding Alaska’s innovation ecosystem with inclusive, community-based engagement

Demonstrating the viability and replicability of high levels of renewable energy in microgrids

Capacity Building Success and Challenges

Renewable Energy Capacity Graph

The ARCTIC program has been invaluable for building capacity and stimulating dynamic growth within the state of Alaska. During the past five years, we have seen the number of communities that can achieve high penetration, diesel off-operation expanded from three to over a dozen. The total installed capacity across all renewable energy technologies has also steadily increased despite reductions in state funding. Much of this results from increased know-how and capacity at the state and local levels, meaning these projects are being developed, operated, and maintained successfully.

Partnering for Energy Innovation

Murkowski Quote Alaska Partners Map

Since 2017 the ARCTIC program has partnered with over 200 organizations across diverse sectors, to advance resilient energy solutions for Alaska and the Arctic. Our core leadership includes three University of Alaska entities—ACEP, Center ICE, and CED—alongside key partners REAP and Launch Alaska, forming a strong partnership for sustainable energy innovation.

See Partners

National Security & Department of Defense (DoD) Relevance

Aligned with the Arctic strategic goals of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and Navy, ARCTIC builds regional capacity for resilient energy infrastructure and enhance energy security. This includes developing sustainable energy and technology solutions while protecting the environment across the Arctic and Pacific regions ensuring that remote and islanded communities are prepared to meet the complex challenges of the future.

The Navy’s 2021 a Blue Arctic: A Strategic Blueprint for the Arctic highlights the ARCTIC program as a key example of how investing in public-private partnerships and innovative solutions can advance operational capabilities in the North as well as the overall well-being and resilience of Alaskan communities.