In a bold move akin to placing their bets on a sure win, the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes are turning towards the sun, aiming to cash in on solar energy. Capitalizing on a substantial $3.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the tribes are pivoting towards a brighter, greener gambling landscape.
Energy Windfall: A Bet on Solar Power to Shine on Sugar Creek by 2025
This renewable energy project is poised to hit the jackpot by significantly slashing energy expenditures for the Sugar Creek Casino and the Sugar Creek Inn and Suites, cherished assets proudly owned and managed by the tribe in Anadarko, Oklahoma. Picture this: solar panels will grace not only the rooftops of the casino and hotel but also provide shade for patrons’ cars parked beneath, with an installation timeline hitting its zenith by summer 2025, weather conditions permitting, as reported with anticipation by the local grapevine.
Once activated, this sun-soaked venture is expected to yield savings of approximately $9 million over 25 years—a substantial bankroll boost that fortifies the tribe’s commitment to a more efficient use of energy.
Vanessa Vance, who brings her prowess as the treasurer of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes to this sustainable gamble, enthusiastically noted, “The solar panels will metaphorically deal us a hand of power capable of energizing the entire hotel while covering around 20% of our casino’s needs.”
While the tribe currently uses no green energy, this strategic move hopes to lay the foundation for a deeper green energy strategy across the board.
Moreover, beyond cost savings, this solar project seems set to lead the tribe on a greener path, trimming its carbon emissions by a remarkable 33,000 tons annually, aligning seamlessly with their broader ambitions for environmentally friendly initiatives in the future.
The Solar “Jobs Jackpot” and a Community Rule
Rolling the dice on this project goes beyond energy—we’re talking good old economic dynamism. It promises to invigorate the local labor force, creating a total of seven temporary jobs and three reliable long-term positions—a significant boon no matter how you slice it. To sweeten the pot, the tribe’s strategy includes setting up a utility authority, tasked with managing the solar energy system and any prospective green energy leaps in the future.
The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes aren’t alone at the table of change. As one of six tribal nations to grab hold of this DOE grant, they’ve committed to laying down about a quarter of the funds themselves in this high-stakes venture. Partnering with developers and contractors, the tribe aims to diversify its energy deck and reduce reliance on outdated power grids, reminiscent of cashing in chips in favor of a winning hand.
Vance optimistically remarked, “We’re hopeful this initiative will bolster not only the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes but also neighboring communities, including the Delaware Nation and Caddo Tribe of Oklahoma,” as they collectively hold sway over the region. Like a ripple effect in a pond, it’s anticipated this green transition will spell wider opportunities for eco-friendly endeavors, boosting both the economic and environmental vitality of the area.
