The Energy Program of the Mashkiiziibii Natural Resource Department’s Projects are designed to foster Tribal Values.
Sovereignty
Through the production of our own energy the Bad River tribe is able to support our vision as a sovereign an independent nation.
Resiliency
To address the risk of power outages and support our critical infrastructure and safety needs, we must develop resilient systems. The security that projects such as the micro and mini grid provide the tribe enable us to support our nation every day and in times of need.
Please take a moment to explore our projects.
Bad River Microgrid – Ishkonige Nawadide “It catches Fire”
-In 2016 the Bad River Tribe experienced a 500 year flood that would devastate both tribal infrastructure and those of surrounding communities. Utility outages eliminated critical infrastructure from being used while roadways were flooded over, cutting communities off from each other.
-In response the Tribe revisited emergency planning and development and installed over 500 kW of solar with over 1000 kWh of battery storage at three critical facilities located in the Odanah Community: The Chief Blackbird Administration Building, Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) and the Health &Wellness Center (H&WC).
-These microgrids are being used primarily for resiliency and as examples that solar works and can provide clean back-up power when needed. The systems were completed and fully commissioned by the Tribe in May of 2021.
The Bad River Health and Wellness Center with the Solar Array in the Background.The Waste Water Treatment Plant with the array in the foreground.The roof mounted array on the Bad River Administration building.
The first step needed in order to install a Minigrid in Bad River is to upgrade the utility lines. The Bayfield electrical distribution system will be upgraded from one phase to three phase. Construction starting in spring of 2026.
5 Megawatts DC Solar and a 1 Megawatt hour battery are currently planned for Birch Hill. Minigrid completion is set for the end of 2027.
Solar Street lights
-23 solar powered Street Lights were installed on Birch Hill in spring of 2025. These LEDs in these solar lights will last 20 years before needing to be replaced.
– With no operating costs and a continuous supply of light even in the event of power outages, these lights will provide visibility and security to the Birch Hill community.
