Energy Services Bulletin, February 2005 |
Firm power contract a stepping stone in Hopi development plan The ink was still damp on the firm power contract when Western officials accepted an invitation to see how new customer, the Hopi Tribe, was using its allocation, and to learn about the tribe’s vision for energy and economic development. “Meeting with Western was a great opportunity to learn about technologies that can help the tribe reach its goals,” said Hopi Tribal Chairman Wayne Taylor, Jr. “The Hopi tribe is at a critical juncture, trying to build a sustainable economy, and having our own energy source is part of that.” Western Administrator Michael Hacskaylo and representatives from the CRSP Management Center and Desert Southwest regional office met with tribal officials on the reservation Nov. 17. Chairman Taylor briefed the Western team on Hopi history, current issues and the tribe’s future goals. Tribe works to improve electrical
service Developing its own tribal utility is a top priority for the Hopi, however. Taking control of its power delivery is one way the tribe is seeking to improve the poor electrical service and frequent, weather-related power interruptions that plague the reservation. The hydropower allocation may also help to increase reliability.
Infrastructure improvements and tying the current radial system to neighboring
parts of the grid are other solutions the tribe is pursuing. Old villages, new development pose
different challenges Walpi, the oldest of the First Mesa villages, underwent recent restoration to preserve its beauty and make it safer for residents to live and perform religious ceremonies. In keeping with the traditional lifestyle practiced in Walpi, the village is not electrified. “Some people don’t want power because of cultural reasons,” said Public Relations Officer Vanessa Charles. “Others do, but can’t be connected because of their location. How do you lay underground wire to a village sitting on solid rock? The tour helped to illustrate the kind of infrastructure challenges the Hopi face.” Currently in the planning stage, the Tawaovi development will be the tribal government center, and include an industrial park and homes. Because it is encased by privately owned land, the reservation has a housing shortage, explained Charles. “Tawaovi has no specific ownership so we can build new homes for Hopi and non-tribal members working on the reservation.” Partnership may increase reservation
job opportunities With an unemployment rate of 49 percent, the Hopi see job creation as critical to self-sustainability. The Hopi-Western partnership could bring public utility and engineering jobs to the area. During the meeting, the group discussed setting up internship and training programs for interested individuals with local colleges. “Right now, young people have to leave the reservation to find work,” Taylor said. “A tribal utility and renewable energy development will create jobs right here, and assistance programs will create skilled employees to fill them.” Tribe members and especially students will have the chance to learn more about energy options at the Hopi Energy Fair planned for early this year. Local energy companies, including Hopi-owned alternative energy vendors, will be there to answer questions about products and opportunities. Western plans to be among the exhibitors at the energy fair, and looks forward to working with the Hopi in the years ahead. It is always exciting to watch our customers put plans into action, and it is even better to be included in the excitement. |