Skip the Grid: Providing Power and Light to the Navajo Nation

Author(s) Information

Esai Contreras, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Architecture and Environmental Design

Department - Author 1

Construction Management Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Construction Management

Date

3-2023

Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Joseph Cleary, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department

Abstract/Summary

Skip the Grid was created as an initiative to power communities that are in need. This project was made possible through a collaborative effort from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) students, industry partners SOLV Energy and Goal Zero, and facilitated through the educational non-profit organization Heart of America (HOA). The goal of this project was to help families of school age children in the Navajo Nation by providing solar energy systems including a battery and lighting. We hoped to achieve a long-lasting effect on the families by installing necessities for families with school-aged children. For the children we wanted to include learning opportunities by providing toys, books, arts and crafts, and hosting an educational STEAM event for 800+ K-12 students. Through collaboration from the Red Mesa School District and HOA, families were identified to receive these off-grid power installations. This being the second installation of Skip the Grid, many aspects were aimed for improvement from size, efficiency, and impact. With the efforts of all parties involved, this project came to life and provided 27 families with solar power and light in March of 2023. This project shows the cross-section between interdisciplinary collaboration and community service.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/743