In 2015, the Navajo Transitional Energy Company (NTEC) pumped more than $35 million into the Navajo Nation, mostly "by way of taxes and royalties," CEO Clark Moseley recently announced at a panel session at the 2016 Navajo Nation Economic Summit at Twin Arrows Resort and Casino.

Moseley presented as a panelist at the “Energy Resource Development” session during the four-day conference, which NTEC sponsored. NTEC is a Navajo tribally owned company that owns and manages Navajo Mine in northwestern New Mexico that supplies coal to the nearby Four Corners Power Plant.

In addition to discussing NTEC's operations and management of Navajo Mine, Moseley addressed NTEC's plans to start investing into clean, renewable and alternative energy projects.

During the questioning and answer portion of the session, Navajo Nation Speaker LoRenzo Bates asked Moseley and the other panelist how they plan to create opportunities for businesses on the Navajo Nation.

Moseley said Navajo Mine is transitioning the role of mine operator from BHP Billiton to North American Coal, and many of the contracted services will be reviewed in the transition.

“This year, we will be transitioning to renew or establish new contracts for services at Navajo Mine,” Moseley said.

He added that Navajo Mine spends about $1 million a month for contract services such as maintenance supplies, janitorial, steam cleaning, sand blasting, and other mine oriented services.

“I would encourage business to be on the lookout for that the opportunity is ripe for this year for establishing new relationships going forward,” Moseley said.

In earlier public meetings, Moseley said NTEC with North American Coal will comply with the Navajo Nation Business Opportunity Act and the Navajo Preference in Employment Act.

Other panelist included Bidtah Becker, Navajo Nation Natural Resources director, and Derek Dyson, Navajo Tribal Utility Authority consultant.

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