Renewable Energy Alaska Project’s Public Policy Committee has voted to endorse Penny Gage and Rachel Morse in the 2026 election for the Chugach Electric Association Board of Directors. REAP’s decision to endorse candidates for the Chugach Electric Board of Directors underlines the importance of cooperative utility board elections and their implications for the future of energy in Alaska.

Cook Inlet gas is used to generate roughly 75% of Southcentral Alaska’s electricity. For years, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources has projected that supply is likely to fall short of demand as soon as 2027. Now, the region’s utilities are exploring much more expensive and volatile-priced gas import options to fill the gap.

We need experienced, forward-thinking leaders on the Chugach Electric Association board who can provide the expertise and leadership necessary to help diversify the utility’s generation portfolio away from a dangerous dependence on natural gas and towards an increasing mix of renewable energy resources. Moving in this direction will stabilize electricity rates and keep precious energy dollars circulating in our state’s economy.

In this critical moment for the future of energy in Alaska, REAP is proud to endorse Penny Gage and Rachel Morse for the Chugach Electric Board of Directors. These two candidates have shown their commitment to REAP’s mission of increasing the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency in Alaska in a way that keeps energy costs low and stable and stimulates the development of new industries that provide great jobs and economic opportunities to Alaskans.

Get to Know the Candidates

2026 Chugach Electric Board Candidate – Penny Gage

Penny Gage

PENNY’S CANDIDATE STATEMENT

“I am running for the Chugach Electric Association Board of Directors to ensure reliable, affordable power for our members during a pivotal time for our region. As a member-owner, I believe Chugach Electric must remain financially strong and accountable to its members.

Born and raised in Alaska and of Tlingit heritage, I have lived in Anchorage for over 11 years and am raising two young children here with my husband. My career has focused on energy policy, infrastructure investment, and economic development. I have worked in state government, private investment, and nonprofit leadership roles evaluating capital projects and long-term risk. I currently work with utilities, policymakers, and investors to support infrastructure investments and responsibly integrate emerging technologies.

Chugach faces tightening natural gas supply, significant capital investment decisions, and heavy reliance on a single fuel. These realities require disciplined oversight, strong financial stewardship, and pragmatic long-term planning.

If elected, I will focus on:

  • Advancing practical near-term gas supply strategies that prioritize reliability and manage costs
  • Protecting ratepayers through financial management and transparent governance
  • Reducing long-term risk through diversification and cost-effective modernization

Reliable power affects every household and business. I would be honored to earn your vote.”

2026 Chugach Electric Board Candidate – Rachel Morse

Rachel Morse

RACHEL’S CANDIDATE STATEMENT

“In my past two terms, I have worked hard to help position Chugach Electric to meet the challenges of gas supply, renewable integration, and responsible rates.

The environment in which Chugach Electric provides reliable, affordable, and responsibly sourced power is evolving. Soon we will be beyond our long-term local gas supply contract, leaning into a Railbelt-wide Integrated Resource Plan, and continuing to balance infrastructure needs with load growth. As a current board member, I possess a strong combination of experience, commitment, and optimism for the important road ahead.

Recent initiatives I have supported include successful management of Beluga River gas field, gas storage and gas exchange agreements, southern transmission line rebuild work, and Alaska’s first community solar project.

Thank you to our members for supporting me and through your engagement, helping me to represent your interests. I would be honored to have your vote for another term.

My priorities are:

  • Ensuring we meet natural gas supply needs
  • Grid Infrastructure Upgrades and Railbelt-wide planning
  • Continued responsible renewable energy integration

All of that while working hard to control costs, maintain reliability, and keep the lowest rates on the Railbelt. Learn more at Facebook.com/Morse4Chugach

Thank you!”

How to Vote

How to vote in the 2026 Chugach Election

If you pay an electric bill to Chugach Electric Association, then you are a member-owner of the electric cooperative and you are eligible to vote in this election.

Chugach member-owners can vote instantly using the utility’s online Election Portal, which closes May 29, 2026, at 1 p.m. Chugach member-owners can also vote in-person at Chugach’s Annual Membership Meeting at Changepoint Alaska (6689 Changepoint Drive in Anchorage) on Friday, May 29, 2026, between 2:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Please bring a valid photo ID.

Online Voting

Chugach Electric member-owners can vote electronically through Chugach’s online voting portal at https://www.directvote.net/Chugach.

To cast a vote online:

  • Access the online ballot by going to https://www.directvote.net/Chugach.
  • When prompted, enter your unique login credentials (Member Number and Election Passcode) that you should have received via email from Chugach Electric.
  • Once validated, the election cover letter will appear on your screen. At the bottom of this page, click “Go to Ballot”.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions for voting, as well as accessing candidate and bylaw amendment information.

Technical support is available Monday through Friday from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (except holidays) by calling (866) 909-3549 or emailing support@directvote.net.

In-Person Voting

Members can vote in-person during Chugach’s Annual Membership Meeting at Changepoint Alaska (6689 Changepoint Drive in Anchorage) on Friday, May 29, 2026, between 2:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Please bring a valid photo ID.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE CRITICAL RACES

Related Resources


By Donovan RussonielloApril 17th, 2026