What can Alaska learn from Iceland’s domestic resource knowledge economy?

• Knowledge economy?– Knowledge as capital to meet business goals

• Main drivers for success?– Established their geothermal & hydropower niche

• Lack of domestic petroleum resources• Abundant geothermal and hydropower

– Industry, government, and university collaboration– Human capital=common denominator

• An Alaskan alternative and renewable resource knowledge economy?

• National Energy Authority

• Iceland GeoSurvey• Private Companies

Government &Private Industry Support

• UNU-Geothermal Training Programme

• Renewable Energy Programs in Icelandic Universities

Institutional Training • Highly-qualified domestic work force

• International resource development

• Geothermal “hub”

Knowledge Economy

Alaska’s Knowledge Economy

• Pre-development plan for geothermal and hydro resources to invite private industry

• Promote collaboration between industry and educational institutions for both applied and basic research– Alternative and renewable energy-focused courses– On-site experience and industry-focused training– Attract in-state, national, and international students

• Extend the stay of the average Alaskan resident