California Energy Commission grant supports tribal energy sovereignty and sustainability
Corning, Calif. – (April 11, 2024) – Today, the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, in collaboration with the California Energy Commission (CEC), held a groundbreaking ceremony for a large-scale solar and storage microgrid project at the Rolling Hills Casino & Resort. The $32 million microgrid project funded by the CEC is a major step towards enhanced energy sovereignty, sustainability, and self-reliance for the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians.
“We are grateful to partner with the CEC and host this grant for this renewable energy project,” said Tribal Chairman Andrew “Dru” Alejandre. “Our people have always cared for the land as it has cared for us. We continue to understand our responsibilities as people and will continue to adapt to modern ways for many generations. We are responsible for preserving our environment for future generations. This project will allow us to provide sustainable energy and most importantly increasing energy sovereignty.”
This project marks a pivotal moment for the Paskenta Nomlaki Band of Indians as they seek to grow its energy sovereignty. It enables the tribe to dictate its energy future, reduce dependencies and build a sustainable economy that respects the earth and future generations.
“The CEC is honored to partner with the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians to scale innovative long-duration energy storage technologies that will add to the reliability of the electricity grid and make the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians and California more energy secure.” CEC Chair David Hochschild said.
The CEC’s commitment to this project underscores the state’s dedication to fostering renewable energy development, environmental justice, and empowering indigenous communities. By investing in the Paskenta Nomlaki Band of Indians’ vision, the CEC is not only supporting the tribe’s journey towards autonomy and resilience. It also reinforces California’s leadership in the global transition to renewable energy.
The microgrid project will enhance energy resiliency and reduce CO2 emissions by installing 5 MW of solar panels and 15 MWh battery energy storage systems. This ensures a steady and reliable clean power source, significantly reducing the Paskenta Nomlaki Tribe’s community’s carbon footprint.
The groundbreaking ceremony symbolizes more than the start of construction; it represents meaningful progress in the clean energy transition for Tribes and is a testament to what can be achieved when communities and government entities collaborate towards a common goal. Paskenta’s innovative solar plus storage microgrid will enhance reliability and resiliency, showcasing how renewable energy can be a cornerstone of economic development and environmental preservation. “We are excited to partner with the CEC to break ground for this solar project,” said Damon Safranek, CEO of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians. “Our Tribe has prioritized energy planning since 2017, and this project will help the Paskenta tribe reach its energy goals.”
As the Paskenta Tribe takes this significant step forward, it paves the way for its members and sets a precedent for indigenous communities nationwide. The project epitomizes the possibility of harmonizing traditional values with modern technology to create a sustainable, self-sufficient future.
###
ABOUT THE PASKENTA BAND OF NOMLAKI INDIANS
The Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians owns Rolling Hills Casino & Resort, which includes the Casino, three restaurants, two conference centers, a Brewery & Distillery, RV Park and Travel Center, The Equestrian Center at Rolling Hills and The Links at Rolling Hills Golf Course. They employ over 500 team members, most of whom work full time with health care benefits and 401k options. Each year, hundreds of thousands of guests visit Rolling Hills Casino, bringing with them tourist dollars that benefit the local economy. The Casino and the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians are strong community partners supporting local programs through generous grants and sponsorships. The Paskenta Nomlaki Foundation donates hundreds of thousands of dollars to community organizations each year, with over $9 million donated to benefit local health, safety and education programs.
ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY COMMISSION
The California Energy Commission is the state’s primary energy policy and planning agency. It has seven core responsibilities: advancing state energy policy, encouraging energy efficiency, certifying thermal power plants, investing in energy innovation, developing renewable energy, transforming transportation, and preparing for energy emergencies.