In a renewed effort, a French-linked energy company is seeking permission from federal authorities to explore a hydropower project on the Navajo Nation. This marks another chapter in the ongoing debate over energy development on tribal lands.
Nature and People First has submitted an application for a preliminary permit to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as they assess the feasibility of a pumped storage project located 12 miles southwest of Kayenta.
Following the acceptance of the application by FERC on May 27, a public comment period has commenced, enabling stakeholders to file protests or motions to intervene regarding the proposed permit.
The proposed Chilchinbeto Pumped Storage Project involves constructing two reservoirs, each capable of holding 10,000 acre-feet of water.
This method of energy generation relies on transporting water from higher elevation reservoirs through tunnels, which powers turbines as it descends to lower reservoirs, with the water later being pumped back uphill when energy costs are low.
According to the application, water for the project could be sourced from the Coconino aquifer or the San Juan River.
Nature and People First’s earlier attempts in 2021 to secure permits for similar projects faced resistance from the Navajo Nation, resulting in permit denials by federal regulators in 2024.
During that period, FERC articulated a policy aimed at enhancing collaboration with Native American tribes, stating, “The Commission will not issue preliminary permits for projects proposing to use Tribal lands if the Tribe on whose lands the project is to be located opposes the permit.”
However, on December 10, 2025, U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright urged FERC to reverse this policy, arguing it imposes “unnecessary burdens” on hydropower development.
Concerns have been expressed by critics regarding potential environmental impacts, particularly with respect to aquifer overuse and the ecological sensitivity of Black Mesa.
Adrian Herder from the Navajo nonprofit Tó Nizhóní Ání, which advocates for water conservation, remarked, “This time around, we definitely have our hands full,” and questioned the current administration’s stance on tribal consultation.
Supporters, including Chilchinbeto chapter officials, emphasize the importance of pumped storage projects in balancing renewable energy fluctuations and the economic benefits they could bring.
The proposed site holds significant ecological and cultural importance for the Navajo and Hopi tribes.
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