This EDA investment supports pueblo of jemez with developing a feasibility study for the tribe's energy independence

This $536,200 Project Grant from the Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration supports the Pueblo of Jemez in developing a feasibility study for the tribe's energy independence. The study will outline strategies for the tribe to acquire or develop the necessary energy infrastructure to be carbon neutral and utilize 100% clean energy, delivering a path towards economic development. It will analyze renewable energy generation capacity and workforce development opportunities to assist tribal members with economic recovery through both reduced energy costs and job creation. Once completed, the project's feasibility study will help the tribe recover from impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic by establishing a concrete action plan to advance economic resiliency and diversify the regional economy. The funding is provided through EDA's Economic Adjustment Assistance program.

The study will outline strategies to acquire and/or create the energy infrastructure necessary for pueblo to be carbon neutral, utilizing 100% clean energy and deliver a path towards economic development. Included within the plan will be an analysis of renewable energy generation capacity and workforce development to assist tribal members with economic recovery through both reduction of energy cost burden and job creation. Once completed, the project will help the tribe recover from the impacts of the covid-19 pandemic by establishing a concrete action plan that will advance economic resilency, diversify and strengthen the regional economy.