Navajo President Shelly Learns More about Electric Power in Western States

Earlier this year the president held townhall forums in all agencies to hear from people, groups, organizations, and local leaders and receive their input in the formation of an energy policy. The draft policy is now in the finishing review process. It outlines the Navajo Nation's future for energy production and sets the drive to develop the nation's energy resources.

"Our visit today is one of several big steps to setting the stage for tomorrow's energy production," the president said. "It's important we shake hands with these groups so that we can together make room for expansion."

"We value your input," Woertz said to the president. "We encourage your participation," he said. WECC is made up of several member classes. "The Navajo Nation can fit in several of these classes, and as you build your transmission line you can serve as a transmission owner," said Woertz.

The president in March appointed Sam Woods, an engineer who has built power plants during his career, to head his energy team and drive the policy for development, creation, and job creating opportunity.

President Shelly's visit to WECC's Reliability Coordination Center is the first for a tribal leader to tour the facility.

Joining the president tour was David Lester, who serves as the executive director for the Council of Energy Resource tribes based in Denver, Colorado.

"I was honored to be with the president today," said David Lester. "The Navajo Nation with its energy future is a major contributor for many years to come."

posted November 10, 2011 6:00 am est