FAQs

A: The Hopi Utilities Corporation (HUC) is leading a project to bring electricity to homes that do not currently have power. The goal is to provide sustainable, reliable, and culturally respectful energy solutions for Hopi households. The program will use different methods, such as solar home systems (SHS), mini-grids, and grid extensions, to ensure the best solution for each home.

As of January 2026, we are currently reaching out to those who were selected for the first round of solar home system installation. 

A: Solar home systems (SHS) are small solar setups that power individual homes. Mini-grids connect multiple homes or buildings to a shared power system. Grid extension connects homes to the existing electricity network. 

A: Having electricity at home improves daily life by providing reliable lighting, refrigeration for food and medicine, and the ability to use electrical appliances. This makes homes safer, healthier, and more comfortable, especially for families who rely on food storage and medical devices. Over time, household electrification contributes to stronger, more self-sufficient communities, which may help them attract investment, infrastructure development, and economic opportunities, and ultimately increase energy independence and resilience for future generations.

A: In order to be considered for a solar home system installation, an applicant must be an enrolled Hopi tribal member. APS customers, homes with solar, and homes without a source of electricity are all eligible for consideration. 

A: The cost of equipment and installation is expected to be fully covered by grant funding, meaning households will not have to pay upfront costs for electrification. 

To keep the systems running reliably, regular maintenance and monitoring will be needed. 

Key components of the system, such as solar inverters and batteries, typically last 10-15 years, while solar panels can last 20-25 years. If these parts fail within the warranty period, the manufacturer usually covers the replacement cost. Some warranties cover the full replacement costs (i.e. parts, shipping, labor, etc.) but some only cover replacement parts. However, if they fail after the warranty expires, the household or system owner will need to pay for replacement and installation.

The ongoing, monthly costs for the homeowner cover the operations and maintenance of the systems and depend on the size of the system installed. Costs are as follows:

Small (10kWh): $40/month

Medium (20kWh): $50/month

Large (30kWh): $75/month

Extra Large ((40kWh): $100/month

A: The project team is working closely with village Community Service Administrators (CSAs), the Hopi Foundation, and tribal leadership to ensure that community voices are heard. Small focus groups and village workshops were conducted to gather community input and feedback on system design, ownership models, and decision-making processes. This helps ensure that the electrification program meets the needs and priorities of Hopi households.

ASU and HUC conducted workshops at all Hopi Villages through the summer of 2025 and attendance was open to the public. During the workshops the team shared information about the program, answered questions, and collected data that is being used to make the program more effective. If more workshops are held, they will be posted on the "Upcoming Workshops" tab on this website.

Applications are remaining open indefinitely as we move through the first round of installations.

A:  Applications to express interest in the program opened on April 1, 2025, and are available in paper form as well as online. Paper applications are available in each village administration building as well as KUYI, the Tribal Administration building, and the Hopi Foundation office. Paper applications can be filled out on-site and returned to the dropbox in the same location. Online applications can be accessed via this link: https://ee.kobotoolbox.org/x/nFdoTMy4 You can also go to the "How to Apply" page on this website.

After applications are submitted, they are reviewed based on community priorities, energy needs, and feasibility. Program staff then conduct site visits to assess each home’s infrastructure and confirm the best electrification method. Once the review is complete, households will be notified whether they have been selected to proceed with electrification. If not selected, they may apply again in future rounds. This process will repeat annually as long as the program is active.

A: Hopi Utilities Corporation (HUC) is responsible for overall project management, including strategy, planning, execution, and system operations. It may also oversee ongoing maintenance and long-term sustainability of the electrification efforts.

Hopi Renewable Energy Office (HREO) provides technical expertise and quality assurance, drawing from its experience with Hopi electrification projects. It may also play a role in system operations and maintenance to ensure reliability.

Arizona State University (ASU) supports the project through community engagement, technical planning, and system design. It also assists with creating and reviewing tenders for system installation and leads workforce development and training efforts to build local capacity.

A: Homes must have space for rooftop or ground-mounted solar panel installation. Larger systems like mini-grids require land for distribution networks and other balance of system components. Systems will be designed with input from the villages to align with culturally-appropriate aesthetics. 

A: Some homes may need electrical panel installation, indoor wiring, or roof strengthening before a system can be installed. Each home will be assessed individually to determine what upgrades are necessary. These improvements will ensure the system works safely and effectively once installed. 

A: You can contact HUC, Hopi Renewables, or ASU with questions or concerns about the program.

HUC:    email - hopisolar@hopiuc.com; phone - 928-522-8428

HREO: email - VHonanie@hopi.nsn.us; phone - 928-734-7169 

ASU:    email - mwodicke@asu.edu; phone - 602-543-5529