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Colville Tribes Partner with OATI to Enhance Energy Stability and Foster Economic Development

In a transformative move towards energy independence, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation are collaborating with Open Access Technology International, Inc. (OATI) to establish multiple microgrids across the reservation. This initiative aims not only at boosting energy reliability but also at creating economic opportunities for the tribes.

A Step Towards Energy Sovereignty

The microgrid initiative represents a critical step in achieving energy sovereignty for the Colville Tribes, allowing them to produce, manage, and deliver energy on their lands. Governed by four legislative districts—Omak, Nespelem, Keller, and Inchelium—the Colville Reservation often faces challenges like power outages due to natural events such as winter storms and wildfires. By self-generating electricity, the tribes can ensure that essential services—including healthcare and housing—remain operational even during outages.

Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman of the Confederated Tribes, expressed the importance of this project: "Our remote location has always made it challenging to maintain a reliable power supply. We hope this microgrid technology will not only secure our power but also pave the way for new economic opportunities."

Innovative Microgrid Development

OATI is tasked with delivering not only the design and development services for the microgrids but also with providing essential hardware and its advanced GridMind® technology, which supports resource management and assists with market integration. Specific microgrid projects include:

• - Nespelem HQ Campus: This will include rooftop solar power, battery energy storage, electric vehicle charging, and comprehensive microgrid controls, aiming to become a model for campus-wide resilience.
• - Paschal Sherman Indian School Community Microgrid: Designed specifically to enhance educational and community resilience by ensuring reliable power for schooling and community events.
• - Keller and Inchelium Districts: Plans for additional distributed energy resources and infrastructure to bolster local resilience further.

The future of these microgrids could see integrations with on-reservation gaming operations and potential data center developments, powered by a tribal-owned utility infrastructure. Sasan Mokhtari, President and CEO of OATI, highlighted the broader implications of this initiative, stating, "These microgrids are more than just backup power solutions; they empower communities to dictate their own energy futures."

Economic Empowerment Through Energy Innovation

With these developments, the Colville Tribes are not just aiming for energy reliability but also repositioning themselves to exploit new economic opportunities associated with advanced energy technologies. This includes potential participation in energy markets as they evolve, allowing them to benefit financially from grid services and other energy-related ventures.

OATI’s approach guarantees that these projects are scalable and integrated into larger energy operations, ensuring financial viability alongside operational effectiveness. By utilizing the GridMind® platform, revenue opportunities from market participation can be maximized, enhancing the overall potential for economic gains through distributed energy resources.

Conclusion

The Colville Tribes, with the support of OATI, are setting a precedent in energy innovation within tribal communities. This partnership not only focuses on achieving energy independence but also redefines the future economic landscape of the tribes, fostering growth and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges. As the microgrid projects progress, they will undoubtedly pave the way for a more sustainable and economically vibrant future for the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.