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
The Skip the Grid initiative, a collaboration between Cal Poly students, SOLV Energy, Goal Zero, and facilitated by the non-profit Heart of America, aimed to enhance the quality of life for Navajo Nation families. Facing disparities in access to electricity and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project installed photovoltaic energy systems with lights in 27 homes, benefiting students of the Red Mesa Unified School District. This initiative addressed the challenges of remote learning by providing reliable, no-cost, off-grid power solutions. Completed on March 30, 2023, the project not only improved the immediate circumstances in the Navajo Nation, but also served as a learning opportunity for Cal Poly students. Drawing from previous installations in 2022, the team developed an enhanced roadmap for future projects, aiming to bring power to every home in the region. This experience allows students to offer construction recommendations, streamlining future installations and contributing to the long-term sustainability of the Skip the Grid initiative.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/738
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