Bringing Light to the Navajo Nation: A Collaborative Effort
In the remote regions near Leupp, east of Flagstaff, a vital initiative is underway to bring electricity to areas that have long gone without power. The Salt River Project (SRP), in collaboration with 44 other utility companies, has launched its sixth annual Light Up Navajo trip, aiming to install power lines in these underserved areas.
This ambitious project is a joint effort between SRP, the American Public Power Association, and the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority. Currently, approximately 25% of homes in the Navajo Nation lack electricity, highlighting the critical need for such initiatives.
SRP journeyman lineman Thomas Gerbig acknowledged the challenges involved, noting that “it will take a lot of manpower to run several miles of electrical line for one home, but it’s worth the work.” His commitment reflects the determination of the volunteers participating in this project.
Between now and July, more than 250 volunteers from 41 utilities across 16 states are expected to travel to the largest reservation in the U.S. as part of the fourth annual Light Up Navajo mutual aid project. These volunteers are dedicating their time and skills to make a significant difference in people’s lives. → More tribal natural resources stories
Gerbig further expressed his motivation by stating, “I couldn’t imagine doing everyday tasks with no power. I mean, that would be pretty hard. They’re pretty remote, so they don’t have very easy to begin with. So I’m pretty excited to go up there and bring those guys some power.”
In a previous effort in 2024, SRP successfully installed nearly 82,000 feet of electrical lines for 17 homes, demonstrating the project’s impact. According to Mark Sienicki, an SRP foreman, the mission to “make their lives better” is a driving force for his team. “I want to see them turn that light on, and when they turn that light on, I am done,” Sienicki said. “I have completed my task, and they’re usually smiling or happy or, you know, you change someone’s life at that point.”
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