DECD0000072

This project aims to install solar photovoltaic (PV) and micro-hydro on irrigation pipeline

recently converted from open canals, demonstrating responsible siting of renewable energy generation

using land that does not risk disturbing cultural resources.

It is anticipated that deploying solar technologies will increase the Yakama Nation’s renewable power supply,

while improving its energy resilience and reliability.

Improvements in irrigation efficiency could also benefit grazing and irrigated agriculture,

the area’s key economic drivers.

As part of its community benefits plan, the project team plans to train and hire local tribal members

to ensure project dollars are reinvested and continue to circulate within the community.

This project aims to create at least 10 construction jobs and 3 apprenticeships,

leading to a stronger local economy and increased disposable income for the reservation.

The engagement plan also incorporates local stakeholders,

including local labor and community-based organizations in a manner that can impact project decisions.

Yakama Power

THE ENERGY IMPROVEMENT IN RURAL OR REMOTE AREAS (ERA) PROGRAM WILL PROVIDE FINANCIAL INVESTMENT, TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, AND OTHER RESOURCES TO ADVANCE CLEAN ENERGY DEMONSTRATIONS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS IN RURAL AND REMOTE AREAS THAT CAN BE REPLICATED AND SCALED. THIS PROGRAM WAS CREATED BY PRESIDENT BIDEN’S BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE LAW. THE GOALS OF THE PROGRAM ARE TO: 1. DELIVER MEASURABLE BENEFITS TO ENERGY CUSTOMERS IN RURAL OR REMOTE AREAS BY FUNDING REPLICABLE ENERGY PROJECTS THAT LOWER ENERGY COSTS, IMPROVE ENERGY ACCESS AND RESILIENCE, AND/OR REDUCE ENVIRONMENTAL HARM. 2. DEMONSTRATE NEW RURAL OR REMOTE ENERGY SYSTEM MODELS USING CLIMATE-RESILIENT TECHNOLOGIES, BUSINESS STRUCTURES THAT PROMOTE ECONOMIC RESILIENCE, NEW FINANCING MECHANISMS, AND/OR NEW COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT BEST PRACTICES; AND 3. BUILD CLEAN ENERGY KNOWLEDGE, CAPACITY, AND SELF-RELIANCE IN RURAL AMERICA.

81.255 - Clean Energy Demonstrations

Department of Energy (DOE)

Yakima, Washington United States

County-Wide

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: Energy Improvement in Rural or Remote Areas Funding Opportunity Announcement (DE-FOA-0002970)

Amendment Since initial award the total obligations have increased 5143% from $610,302 to $32,000,000.