Hirsch is uniquely suited for such a position. He holds a doctoral degree in natural resources, is a former development director for the Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council and was personally involved in building the first in-river hydrokinetic turbine -- in the Yukon River -- in the country.

Alaska has a plethora of potential renewable energy possibilities, said Hirsch, including geothermal, tidal and wind-diesel hybrid technologies.

"In remote areas, Alaska is considered a world leader in wind-diesel hybrids," he said. "And Chena Hot Springs has brought us attention as a leader in geothermal power, too."

Lowering energy costs for Alaskans will be his primary focus, he added.

"Alaska has the highest electricity and highest gas prices in the country, especially in villages," he said. "There's been a decision to invest in Alaska and try to address some of these issues."

Although he officially started his new job Feb. 17, Hirsch is working on a part-time basis until he is able to complete some prior obligations. One of them, his company's completion of the Homer Climate Action Plan, will be done by June, he said.

Asked if he would have to relinquish his seat on the HEA board, Hirsch said that after consulting with legal counsel, he feels comfortable staying, at least for now.

"The interpretation of my responsibilities is that there are currently no conflicts of interest," he said. "If that changes in the future, I would take appropriate action."

For now, while specifics of his new job -- such as where his office will be and how large a staff he will be afforded -- are being hammered out by his bosses in Colorado, Hirsch is planning future development of several renewable energy projects around Alaska.

"I'm definitely excited," he said. "It's the right effort at the right time. I'm very much humbled and honored to have been chosen for this and I feel an obligation to Alaska and the people of Homer."

Aaron Selbig can be reached at aaronselbig.@homernews.com.