Photo: The Navajo Nation Resources and Development Committee discusses plans for spinning off an independent Office of Energy to centralize the nation’s energy development efforts, and inure them from political interference. (Photo by Navajo Nation)
The Navajo Nation Resources and Development Committee will move forward with plans for a standalone energy office, a move intended to centralize authority over energy projects and provide a single point of contact for outside agencies.
The committee announced the decision following a Nov. 24 committee meeting where members reviewed different ideas for building the office. The options, developed by consultant Red Streak LLC, included a new department woven tightly into existing departments to centralize and coordinate their energy efforts, as well as a more independent office meant to eventually become its own enterprise.
Committee members settled on the latter model, one that would establish the energy office as an independent entity. The plan calls for the office to oversee operations, budgeting, policy development, risk management, community engagement and regulatory processes. Members said the model would reduce conflicts between departments and streamline communication.
“The Navajo Energy Office is not just an administrative structure. It is an investment in our nation’s future,” Resources and Development Committee Chair Brenda Jesus said during the meeting. “By advancing a clear and independent plan of operation, we position the Navajo people to guide our own energy development, protect our lands and ensure that every project delivers real benefits to our communities.”
Chez Oxendine-courtesy
