ICRC: a modern company: this subsidiary of Koniag Inc, is involved in everything from launching space satellites, to developing high-tech military trucks, to conducting environmental research.

• Author: Grenn, Ben
• Position: Alaska Native Business News

FROM SPACE TO DENALI Next summer, the company plans to test a synthetic diesel fuel in tour buses in Denali National Park. The fuel also will be evaluated in heavy duty vehicles in Fairbanks this winter.

"We are mostly all about developing new ways to help the environment and reduce emissions," said Steve Bergin, ICRC program manager from Detroit, Mich. "Obviously, Alaska's climate is ideal for testing a new diesel fuel in cold weather. A year from now, we should have the results of just how efficient that diesel is and its impact on the environment. Denali Park is one of the most environmentally sensitive areas in the country. We want to protect the animal life and reduce emissions.

"There is so much untapped gas resources in Alaska," continued Bergin. "Right now the supply is underutilized."

ICRC conducted energy audits designed to help Denali National Park achieve sustainable energy and water systems at three different locations within the park. Life-cycle cost estimates indicate the potential to save the park more than $500,000 while greatly reducing diesel generator emissions and the threat to the environment from transporting fossil fuels.

ICRC also evaluated the use of various alternative fuels for bus systems, and for heating and power in the park headquarters area. It has evaluated the use of fuel cells, electric engines, hybrid electric engines, liquid natural gas, compressed natural gas, propane, synthetic diesel, ethanol and methanol as power sources for the bus fleet operation.

"This will mean a cleaner-burning fuel and may result in the ability for building a lighter-weight engine someday," Bergin said.

ICRC AND NATURAL GAS ICRC, one of 10 Koniag subsidiaries, is a diversified engineering and technical services company that serves federal agencies as well as commercial customers. The ownership by an Alaska Native corporation has provided Alaska with environmental architecture and engineer services, and support services to the new missile launch complex in Kodiak Island and other unique opportunities.

"We work very closely with the Department of Energy in clean fuels research and development," said Jim Lexo, ICRC chief executive officer. "Getting the natural gas pipeline built would be a huge boon to the nation and Alaska."

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