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AQCP Case Studies

Energy Case Study:
Additional Information

The following Project Overview provides more details about the proposed Regional Intertribal Energy Project and the benefits it offers for the local tribes. We hope this information answers most of your questions.

THE REGIONAL INTERTRIBAL ENERGY PROJECT
Project Overview
I. Background

Tribal officials are aware of the region's looming energy shortage. Demand for energy is rapidly outpacing the state's generating capacity. Utility executives have indicated that another 7,000 megawatts of new generating capacity will be needed in our area over the next decade and beyond.

The need for additional generating capacity has been recognized by the federal government as well. The Bush administration has directed the Department of Energy (DOE) to actively promote the development of additional new generating capacity throughout the U.S.

DOE has expressed a strong interest in smaller-scale, more environmentally friendly generating plants that can be developed in ways that are appropriate for local and regional needs. The Regional Intertribal Council has chosen to explore the feasibility of developing a small-scale power plant on reservation lands.

II. The Purpose of the Project
The purpose of the Regional Intertribal Energy Project is to:

  • Provide a more reliable energy supply for the region;
  • Create additional unsubsidized income for the Tribe;
  • Create additional Tribal employment.

III. The Project Itself
The Regional Intertribal Energy Project will assess the feasibility of developing a 70-100 megawatt power plant on reservation lands. The plant would generate electricity to be offered for sale into the wholesale power market.

IV. The Project Principals
The Regional Intertribal Council is considering various environmental consulting and project management services with experience to industry and government organizations. The company will specialize in assessing the environmental, health and safety implications of proposed industrial projects to ensure that all major issues are identified and properly addressed.

V. The Scope of the Study
The study will examine all aspects of the proposed development, including:

  • Site requirements
  • vironmental considerations
  • Air
  • Water
  • Noise
  • Odor
  • Traffic
  • Visual/Aesthetics
  • Community relations concerns
  • Power industry regulatory issues
  • Fuel supply factors
  • Energy market variables
  • Opportunities for lease, sale or joint venture operation
The Regional Intertribal Council will secure outside funding for the study.

VI. The TimeLine
The target date for completion of this study is determined by your teacher. The implementation process (identifying and qualifying prospective partners, lessees or buyers, and negotiating contracts for construction and operation of the plant) is likely to continue throughout this time frame. Actual construction of the facility would likely occur in next year.

						  
						  

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Northern Arizona University Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals

EEOP Staff
Environmental Education Outreach Program (EEOP)
Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP)
PO Box 5768
Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5768
Phone: (928) 523-1275
Fax: (928) 523-1280
E-mail: eeop@nau.edu

Last updated: May 26, 2005