KLAGETOH — On Tuesday, May 19, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren traveled to Klagetoh, Arizona, to meet with linemen working on the Light Up Navajo initiative and personally thank the Delta Montrose Electric Association from Colorado for their service and partnership in helping bring electricity to Navajo families. The seven-member crew joined the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority in continuing efforts to connect homes across the Navajo Nation.
During the visit, President Nygren met a family of six whose home received electricity for the very first time. One resident, a disabled Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veteran and father of four, had been waiting for services since applying in 2022.
For many families, electricity is something often taken for granted. But for thousands of Navajo families, living without power means going without reliable heat, refrigeration, running water, and other everyday necessities. Today, more than 13,000 families across the Navajo Nation are still living without electricity. That means nearly 75% of all homes in the United States that do not have power are located on the Navajo Nation.
Seeing the impact firsthand left a lasting impression on President Nygren.
“This is what it’s all about,” President Nygren said. “Being here in person, seeing the smiles on the family’s faces, and watching a home finally receive electricity after years of waiting is something that truly touches your heart. It reminds me why we continue to work so hard every day for our people. Moments like this give me hope and inspire me to keep advancing projects that improve lives across the Navajo Nation.”
President Nygren expressed gratitude to NTUA, utility crews, and all partners involved in the Light Up Navajo initiative for their continued dedication and compassion toward Navajo communities.
The Navajo Nation and NTUA will continue pursuing additional funding opportunities to expand electrification efforts and connect as many homes as possible, bringing hope and opportunity to families throughout the Navajo Nation.
