
Diné families thrive with solar power, community-driven innovation

Courtesy | AES
Homeowners are trained in the operation of their solar system and attend a class at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colo., to deepen their knowledge of energy independence.
By Robert Bettis
Navajo Times
CHINLE
For many families living off the grid, flipping a light switch or storing food in a refrigerator isn’t a given – it’s a life-changing luxury. Thanks to the VAP Solar Initiative, a partnership between AES Energy Company and Fort Lewis College, more families are experiencing that transformation firsthand.

Courtesy | AES
Fort Lewis College interns and AES energy company employees collaborate to install solar systems at a homesite. The program provides families in need with reliable power – at no cost.
This program combines solar installations with hands-on education, not just bringing electricity to remote homes but also empowering the next generation of Navajo energy leaders.
Miranda Manygoats is one of those who has seen her daily life improve dramatically. Manygoats is Tódích’íi’nii and born for Táchii’nii. Her cheii is Lók’aa’ Dine’é, and her nálí is Kinłichíi’nii. Before the solar installation, she and her husband relied on a gas generator and propane, which was expensive and unreliable.
To read the full article, please see the July 17, 2025, edition of the Navajo Times.
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