Report: ‘Clean energy’ viable source for Navajo Nation

Report: ‘Clean energy’ viable source for Navajo Nation

By Kathy Helms
Diné Bureau

WINDOW ROCK — Investing in renewable energy development and energy efficiency could provide more jobs and economic benefits for the Navajo Nation than building the proposed Desert Rock Energy Project, according to an economic analysis released by Diné Citizens Against Ruining Our Environment.

The 168-page report, prepared in consultation with Ecos Consulting of Durango, compares “clean energy” alternatives such as solar and wind power to the proposed 1,500 megawatt plant to be built near Farmington by Sithe Global Power LLC and Diné Power Authority.

Coal plant impacts

The report assesses economic factors such as short- and long-term employment, financial risks, environmental and health impacts, potential costs of carbon pollution, and profitability for the tribe.

“As far as solar and wind technology, the Navajo Nation has the potential and has the resources to make these projects viable,” Dailan Long of Diné Care said earlier this week. “The Navajo Nation could be a leader in renewable energy development, so this is what we’re pushing. Our job is to make this happen.”

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