Invenergy
Renewable Energy and Economic Development on Navajo Nation
Hannah Larkin
Executive Summary
Invenergy Transmission, a subsidiary of Invenergy LLC, is developing a 400+ mile HVDC transmission line across northern New Mexico. This transmission line will deliver renewable energy to the Four Corners area of northwest New Mexico, crossing a large portion of Navajo Nation land. Initial briefing meetings with Navajo Nation regarding this project have uncovered points of interest and concern that are top-of-mind for Navajo Nation: 1. Navajo Nation would like to become a hub for renewable energy, 2. as coal plants retire Navajo Nation will lose many jobs, and 3. approximately 40% of Navajo Nation does not have electricity or running water. Navajo Nation has requested that Invenergy characterize tangible benefits that the transmission project will bring to the Nation aside from right-of-way payments. Invenergy is looking to answer the following questions: How can Invenergy support the development of skilled labor within Navajo Nation given the transition from carbon to non-carbon energy given that the renewable energy industry cannot provide the same number of jobs as the coal industry? How can Invenergy support Navajo Nation in becoming a hub for renewable energy? How can/will Invenergy’s investment in transmission bring economic development to Navajo Nation?