Tribal Communities in Arizona Face Energy Challenges, Push for Sovereignty
November 07, 2025
Miguel Sallard
Managing Editor
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — On Oct. 14, during the Tribal Energy an Economic Futures Summit, Indigenous leaders, state officials and energy experts gathered to discuss barriers slowing progress in tribal energy development.
One of the most pressing issues is the cost of connecting to the power grid. Tribes are often required to pay deposits of up to $5 million to hold their place in the interconnection, a financial burden that limits access to energy projects, especially for tribes without casino revenues or with limited access to their lands.
Arizona is home to 22 federally recognized sovereign tribes, each with a rich history and a unique vision for development. As the state transitions to clean energy, tribal nations are taking control of their energy and economic futures, confronting historical inequities with innovative solutions.
Tribal lands make up nearly 28% of Arizona’s territory, offering significant potential for solar, wind and geothermal energy development. Yet many communities still face energy insecurity. The Hopi Tribe, surrounded by the Navajo Nation, has more than 600 homes without electricity, highlighting a persistent gap in basic infrastructure. “The new federal administration cut $25 million that had been allocated for energy development in our community,” said Timothy Nuvangyaoma, Chairman of the Hopi Tribe. “These 600 families will remain without power until we can develop a new plan.”
“Where will this funding come from? Who will provide it?” asked Pilar Thomas, a partner in the Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Practice Group at Quarles & Brady LLP. “We can’t rely 100% on federal or state funds. Will it come from private partners? And who will be responsible for these costs?”
Previously, the federal government had responded with funding programs and tax credits tailored to tribal needs. The Inflation Reduction Act included provisions allowing tribes to access clean energy incentives. However, those funds have been frozen under the current administration.
Even so, tribal leaders say policies must be designed in collaboration with Indigenous communities, respecting their autonomy and long-term vision.
Despite the obstacles, several tribes are leading the way with innovative energy initiatives. One such projects is the Kayenta Solar Project in the Navajo Nation, the first large-scale solar farm owned by a tribe. It not only brings eletricity to homes, creates jobs and strengthens the local economy.
The Gila River Indian Community is also demonstrating forward-thinking leadership. With solar panels installed along its irrigation canals and new solar farms under development, the Community is actively planning for the future of its members and reinforcing its sovereignty.
Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis has emphasized energy as a pillar of Indigenous prosperity, advocating for partnerships that respect tribal leadership.
Covering nearly 2,800 feet of the Casa Blanca Canal, the project showcases how climate action can align with tribal innovation.
“Our solar panels initiatives are already making a difference,” said Governor Stephen Roe Lewis. “By harnessing the sun, we are reducing energy cost, and conserving water.”
Governor Lewis emphasized the Community’s longstanding connection to energy development through the San Carlos Irrigation Project. “Originally, the power infrastructure was designed to serve the irrigation system alone. But over the decades, it has grown into a major source of electricity for our Community,” he explained. “We are now working closely with the Gila River Indian Utility Authority (GRICUA) to explore new ways to expand our energy infrastructure.”
He also expressed his appreciation to Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs for her continued support of energy initiatives in Tribal Nations. Her partnership has been instrumental in helping Indigenous communities move toward a more sustainable and self-reliant future.
Governor Hobbs has expressed her commitment to working alongside tribal nations, removing bureaucratic barriers and strengthening tribal consultation as part of her development agenda. The road ahead is challenging, but the momentum is real. As tribal nations reclaim control over their energy futures, they are lighting the way toward a development model that could inspire all of Arizona, and the nation.
In addition to the Kayenta Solar Project and the Gila River Indian Community solar over canal initiative, other tribes are navigating strategic change.
Indigenous, Led Energy Projects.
Cheppewa Cree Tribe, in Montana, are benefiting from the EPA’s Solar for All initiative. Oglala Sioux Tribe, South Dakota, also supported by the Solar for All program, the Tribe is investing in solar infrastructure to serve community buildings and homes. Some of these projects demonstrate that Tribal Nations are not just adapting to climate challenges, they are shaping the future of energy.
Indigenous communities are building strong, self-sufficient system that honor their land and people.