Gila River Indian Community
Population: 11,712
Size: 585 sq. mi.
Median household income: $28,779
The Gila River Indian Community (Community) has its own Utility Authority, the Gila River Indian Community Utility Authority (GRICUA) and a Community Renewable Energy Team (Team) made up of Council representatives, Community Department representatives, and Utility Authority members. Members of this group and the GRICUA are in the process of redefining the goals and objectives of the Team.
GRICUA completed construction of a new LEED office building and is in the process of obtaining LEED certification. In addition, GRICUA installed 47 kW’s of photovoltaic panels to provide power to the new office building, with excess power being delivered into the 12 kV distribution system under its Interconnection policy. In addition, the new Health Care Administration building has installed solar and the Community has installed some solar lighting.
GRICUA and the Community continue to review and evaluate potential solar projects.
This information was gathered from conversations with representatives of the Gila River Indian Community. The census data was found online and represents 2010 figures.
Sources:
- Statement developed by Utilities Director Leonard Gold, approved by Gila River Indian Community Utility Authority board.
- Demographic Analysis for the Gila River Community