AK Chin Indian Community
Population: 1,001
Size: 32 sq. mi.
Median Household Income: $32,022
The Ak Chin Indian Community performed a feasibility study with USDOE’s Tribal Energy Program for a biomass plant in 2004, to utilize manure from local chicken farming and other feedstock for electricity generation. The project did not move forward, as other economic uses of the agricultural wastes proved to be more feasible.
The Community also established its own electric utility, ACES, in 1992 and began providing all electricity service in 1997. Until recently, APS provided all operation, maintenance and construction services. ACES now partners with ED3, a regional provider of services for electric utilities.
The Community does not currently have any renewable energy generation capacity, but it explored commercial-scale solar development (utility-scale, for sale to external parties) with support from the U.S. Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs. No projects were feasible economically at the time of the investigation.
The Community continues to consider smaller-scale renewable energy projects on a case-by-case basis. The Community is investigating solar street-lighting for new streets where there is not already electricity access to the light poles. In addition, large new structures are designed to be able to accommodate future installation of PV panels.
This information was gathered using web searches and conversations with tribal representatives. The census data was found online and represents 2010 figures.
Sources:
- Jayne Long, Building Director and Capital Projects Manager, Ak Chin Indian Community
- Leonard Gold, Consultant, helped Community to establish Ak Chin Energy Services utility
- U.S. DOE Tribal Energy Program website
- Presentation to U.S. DOE on utility development
- Tribal Demographic Analysis