SMART Inclusion Podcast: Episode 4 - Tribal - Energy Independence (30M Grants) with Brett Isaac

The SMART Inclusion Podcast

In this episode of the SMART Inclusion Podcast, host Todd discusses energy justice and empowerment with Brett Isaac, founder of Navajo Power Home, a pioneering energy development initiative based on the Navajo Nation. Brett shares the journey of creating a utility from the ground up, bringing sustainable, clean energy to homes that were historically excluded from power infrastructure. From the legacy of the 1936 Rural Electrification Act, which intentionally left tribal lands without access to electricity, to the innovative solutions Navajo Power Home is implementing, this episode takes a deep dive into the intersection of energy, equity, and culture. Brett discusses the role of equity economics, how his community is leading in renewable energy, and the challenges of accessing capital for energy solutions that serve marginalized communities. Whether you're interested in sustainable energy models, economic empowerment, or the future of energy independence in Indigenous communities, this episode is full of actionable insights!
Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction: Todd introduces equity economics, energy justice, and Indigenous roles in energy transition. [01:45] Legacy of the Rural Electrification Act, Brett discusses how the Act's exclusion of tribal lands has fueled energy inequity.
[04:30] Brett Isaac’s Story, Brett shares his background on the Navajo Nation and his drive to create Navajo Power Home.
[07:15] Founding Navajo Power Home, Brett explains establishing Navajo Power Home in 2018 to build renewable projects.
[10:10] Building a Tribal Utility, Challenges in accessing capital and navigating tribal limitations to create a utility. [13:00] Community Impact, How Navajo Power Home provides jobs, wealth, and community-owned energy solutions.
[16:15] Equity Economics in Energy, Brett explains their model’s focus on social impact and sustainability.
[18:45] Scaling for Growth, plans to electrify more homes through private investment and federal grants.
Resources:
Brett Isaac - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-isaac-816552219/
https://www.energy.gov/
https://www.whitehouse.gov/
https://www.transportation.gov/
https://www.navajopowerhome.com/
https://www.ncai.org/
https://www.apha.org/
https://gridalternatives.org/
https://www.policylink.org/
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