Skip the Grid: Providing Solar Energy to Navajo and Hopi Families

Author(s) Information

• Derrick Huang, 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

6-2026

Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)

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

Abstract/Summary

In Spring 2026, the Skip the Grid program sent its 5^th consecutive service project team to the Navajo Nation. Consisting of 4 faculty and 23 interdisciplinary students from various majors such as Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Management, and more, the California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) team partnered with non-profit Heart of America, SOLV Energy, and NextPower to install Two 200-watt PV panels, a Yeti 1500X battery, a refrigerator, and two LED lights to families in the Navajo and Hopi Nations in Northeastern Arizona. Within 3 installation days, the Skip the Grid team was able to provide electricity to 50 households with children ranging from elementary to high school. The team also organized an Educational Night at Holbrook Junior High School where students hosted a STEM-focused activity, career panel, resume/interview prep, and headshots to prepare and educate children about opportunities in solar power and construction. In the 5^th year, the Skip the Grid team demonstrated exceptional abilities in blending an interdisciplinary approach with Cal Poly’s “Learn by Doing” mantra to change the lives of 50 families while gaining a deeper understanding of Navajo and Hopi Culture.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/955