U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $4 Million to Support Climate-Ready Future on Fort Mojave Reservation
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $4 million grant to the Fort Mojave Aha Macav Power Service, Mojave, Arizona, to develop a new source of clean and renewable energy for the Fort Mojave Reservation through the construction of a 2.3 megawatt solar power system. This EDA project is expected to create or retain nearly 50 jobs, according to grantee estimates.
“President Biden is committed to supporting Tribal communities and investing in renewable energy,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment will support green jobs and clean, affordable electricity for residents of the Fort Mojave Reservation.”
“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support the Fort Mojave Aha Macav Power Service as it seeks to build a resilient and sustainable Tribal economy,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will help to limit carbon dioxide emissions, underscoring the Biden Administration’s commitment to a climate-ready future.”
“I have met with tribal leaders from across Arizona and have consistently heard about the challenges they face when it comes to providing basic needs for their communities,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “This grant not only facilitates a clean energy future, but expands access and creates good paying jobs in the process. This is a model for what’s possible when we invest in our communities, no matter their zip code.”
“Today’s investment allows families on the Fort Mojave Reservation to keep more of their own money in their pockets, and ensures Arizona remains a safe and healthy place to call home for generations to come,” said Senator Kyrsten Sinema.
“This investment will create good-paying jobs; provide clean, affordable power; and strengthen Arizona’s leadership in renewable energy production,” said Senator Mark Kelly.
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.