Forecasting a feasible future for the Navajo Generating Station (NGS), the Phoenix-based Arizona Mining Association (AMA) recently gathered stakeholders, tribal leaders and policy generators to support continued operation.

The station serves electricity consumers from near Page.

AMA held a rally in Phoenix in conjunction with an afternoon seminar hosted by the U.S. Department of the Interior designed to collect public input. NGS is completely powered by coal, provides 90 percent of the power needed to move water through the state under the auspices of the Central Arizona Project (CAP) and says it assures diversity in energy sourcing, according to an announcement.

Recent independent research presented during an Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) meeting revealed that the plant is predicted to remain sufficiently competitive and cost-effective through 2040.

"NGS delivers affordable energy for Arizona water and power users, creates thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and provides significant benefits for tribal communities," Congressman Paul Gosar (R-AZ) said in the release.

Multiple advantages for the station’s continued operation include not only uninterrupted energy delivery but also stable job positions for many Hopi and Navajo tribal members, contributing to Arizona’s overall economic health, according to the announcement.

ACC commissioner Andy Tobin said that the state is at risk for becoming too reliant upon natural gas and that keeping NGS functioning can protect consumers from market and supply fluctuations.

"Keeping the plant operating will … be far more cost-effective than prematurely retiring the plant," Tobin said.

The station occupies land belonging to the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation and serves customers in both Arizona and Nevada.