Renewable Energy Feasibility Study

In December 2018, HECO Engineers, a leading engineering firm, was contracted by the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes (SPT) of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation (DVIR) in Owyhee County, Idaho, to conduct a renewable energy generation feasibility study. This comprehensive study aimed to assess the viability of renewable energy options for the SPT. It involved weather analysis, site evaluations, analysis of renewable energy alternatives, financial feasibility, funding options, and considerations of environmental and archaeological impacts. HECO Engineers played a pivotal role in conducting this study, providing valuable insights and expertise in renewable energy systems.

The scoping trip, conducted on March 23, 2019, was a crucial step in the feasibility study. The primary objective of the SPT was to evaluate the feasibility of utilizing renewable energy to power a proposed multi-use building, which would house various facilities such as a daycare, a Head Start classroom, a shared kitchen, a library, a workout room, and a community room for cultural events. The SPT also expressed interest in exploring the feasibility of offsetting electrical expenses for their existing Tribal office complex. HECO Engineers worked closely with the SPT to understand their goals and objectives, and to identify the most suitable renewable energy options for the project. The scoping trip provided valuable insights into the SPT’s requirements and informed the subsequent phases of the feasibility study. 

Based on the scoping trip and careful evaluation of the sites, HECO Engineers identified wind turbines, biomass, geothermal, and solar energy as potential renewable energy alternatives. After considering factors such as resource availability, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness, it was determined that solar energy development appeared to be the most desirable and viable option for the SPT. A preliminary review of the proposed sites indicated that each site had the potential for solar energy system development. The preferred site was selected based on the SPT’s power production goals, the ability to connect to the local utility company’s grid, and a comprehensive cost/benefit analysis prepared as part of the feasibility study. HECO Engineers provided electrical engineering expertise throughout the study, offering guidance and support in analyzing the technical aspects of the renewable energy systems under consideration. Additionally, our firm worked to assess the potential for renewable energy development, contributing to the tribe’s sustainable energy goals and overall community well-being.

Services Provided by HECO Engineers:

• Electrical engineering
• Feasibility study
• Funding assistance
• Scoping trip