Energy from the Red Mesa Tapaha Solar Project in Utah is now available to members of Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems.
The power purchase agreement between UAMPS and Navajo Tribal Utility Authority Generation-Utah, LLC., a subsidiary of Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, makes solar energy available to 15 UAMPS members for 25 years.
The Red Mesa Tapaha Solar Resource is a 72 MW solar photovoltaic generation facility located on the Navajo Nation reservation in southeastern Utah. The project went into commercial operations on April 20, 2023.
UAMPS will purchase power from Red Mesa at $37 per megawatt hour, including renewable energy credits. This gives UAMPS the opportunity to diversify its power sources and provides members with a low-cost, long-term supply of renewable energy.
“The Red Mesa project is a valuable asset to UAMPS members looking to expand their access to clean energy at a competitive price,” said Mason Baker, UAMPS CEO. “This is a valuable alternative energy project that supports both UAMPS and the Navajo Nation community with the possibility of leading to additional projects and partnerships in the future.”
The Red Mesa solar farm is another milestone in the Navajo Nation’s transition to clean, renewable energy.
NTUA has developed two utility scale solar projects within the last three years on the Navajo Nation and is in the process of developing additional solar resources on and off the Navajo Nation reservation.
NTUA will use a significant amount of its proceeds from the proposed project to support electrification on the Navajo Nation, such as its Light Up Navajo mutual aid initiative.
“This project will serve both UAMPS and NTUA customers,” NTUA General Manager Walter Haase said. “UAMPS will be able to add another clean, carbon-free energy asset to their portfolio, while the project has created much needed jobs for the Navajo Nation, will keep NTUA electric rates stabilized, and brings opportunity for electric connection to families who have not had access. It is a win-win situation for everyone.”
