#United States #Energy Independence #OATI #Corning #Paskenta Tribe

Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians and OATI: A Strategic Partnership for Energy Resilience

In a significant move towards energy independence, the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians has teamed up with Open Access Technology International, Inc. (OATI) to enhance the energy resilience and sovereignty of their community in Northern California. Announced on June 16, 2026, this collaboration marks a milestone for the tribe as it embarks on one of the largest state-funded microgrid projects.

Renewable Energy for Autonomy

The central feature of this partnership is the integration of OATI's advanced microgrid system, GridMind®, which will manage a substantial two-part solar and battery microgrid setup for the Paskenta Band. This initiative, which began development in 2024, combines 4.5 megawatts of solar panels with a 21 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system. By doing so, it aims to allow the tribe to function autonomously from the local utility's grid, thereby significantly improving the reliability of their energy supply.

Notably, this strategic implementation is crafted to address the peak energy demand and reduce associated costs while supporting critical community loads. The microgrid will also fortify the tribe's infrastructural resilience against high wildfire risks, a pressing concern for communities in Tehama County and beyond.

A Model for Tribal Self-Reliance

Supported by both federal and state grants, this project is seen as a pioneering model that utilizes funds from FEMA and the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program aimed at boosting local energy resilience and self-sufficiency for tribal nations. The collaborative effort between the Paskenta Band and OATI is not merely a project—it's a pathway to establishing the framework for a community-owned utility. Tribal leaders, including CEO Damon Safranek, have expressed that energy independence ties directly to the principles of land stewardship and the community's long-term welfare.

Building a Sustainable Future

The implementation process includes collaborating closely with tribal energy developer Woven Energy, with plans to incorporate robust controls that enable each microgrid to operate effectively, both independently and collectively. OATI, known for its expertise in energy solutions for rural communities, provides comprehensive consulting, design, and deployment services, ensuring that the project's scalability and financial viability meet necessary operational standards.

Sasan Mokhtari, president and CEO of OATI, emphasized their commitment to enhancing energy independence for tribal communities, acknowledging the life-saving reliability that localized energy sources can provide, especially in adverse conditions. The partnership is a proactive approach to creating self-sustaining energy systems, with the hope of inspiring similar initiatives in other tribal areas.

The Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians

The Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, recognized as a sovereign nation, is based in Corning, California, and plays a vital role in the local economy. They own a range of businesses, including the Rolling Hills Clinic and Rolling Hills Casino Resort, which collectively employ around 1,000 people locally. Their casino and related enterprises not only contribute to their economic stability but also support various local programs through the Paskenta Nomlaki Foundation, reiterating their commitment to the community.

Conclusion

This collaboration between the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians and OATI is a significant step towards achieving energy resilience and independence, setting a powerful example for other tribes across the nation. By prioritizing renewable energy sources and innovative technologies, the tribe is not only safeguarding their energy future but also actively participating in the broader conversation about sustainability and self-reliance in indigenous communities.

Through coordinated efforts and forward-thinking strategies, the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians aims to establish a thriving, independent energy framework that serves as a model for self-sufficient development in the face of modern energy challenges.