Restoring Community and Empowering Tribal Members
By Kelsey Radmilovic
Renewable Energy as a Pathway to Sustainability and Resilience
The Bi’du Khaale housing project, led by Project Manager David Smith-Ferri with the Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians, is transforming the lives of 24 tribal elders by providing safe, affordable housing in Cloverdale, California. An integral component of the Bi’du Khaale project is the incorporation of rooftop solar systems and battery backup for all homes, the on-site residential manager’s unit, and the Community Center. This effort, achieved through a strong partnership with GRID Alternatives Bay Area North Coast (BANC), reduces long-term utility costs for residents—many of whom are on fixed incomes—and strengthens resilience against power outages, which are increasingly common in fire-prone areas.
“Utility costs keep going up, and we have no reason to think they’ll stop,” Smith-Ferri says. “By providing solar and battery backup, we’re helping elders live within their budgets while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the risk of wildfires by undergrounding all utilities.”
Empowering Through Workforce Development
Another highlight of the Bi’du Khaale project has been the inclusion of a robust workforce development component, providing Tribal members with the opportunity to gain hands-on solar installation experience. Through GRID Alternatives’ Installation Basics Training (IBT) program, participants took online classes followed by practical, on-the-ground training.
David recalls seeing Elsa Navarro, one of the trainees, at a tribal membership meeting after completing her training. “It was clear how much this opportunity meant to her—her confidence, her pride as a Tribal member contributing to an important project. It was all real.” Another trainee, Kerry Lozinto, leveraged her training and experience on-site to secure full-time employment with a contractor, illustrating the tangible career opportunities made possible through this partnership.
A Vision Rooted in Community and Sovereignty
This project began six years ago when a large-scale survey revealed that housing for elders was the #1 priority for Tribal members. Recognizing the dire need—where many elders were living in substandard conditions or overcrowded households —the Tribe took action. Since the Tribe’s original 75-acre rancheria is on steep, rugged, and unsuitable land, the Dry Creek Rancheria purchased land in Cloverdale and initiated the process of annexation, development, and community planning.
“This project is not only about providing safe housing,” David explains. “It’s about reconstituting the community and restoring a sense of belonging and security that was lost when the Tribe was displaced from its land.”
Wildfires, unpredictable rainfall, extreme heat, and record-breaking storms are now a regular occurrence. Cloverdale, where the Bi’du Khaale community is located, experiences some of the highest temperatures in Sonoma County, with recent summers hitting a staggering 117°F.
“These homes will protect elders from the worst effects of extreme weather,” David shares. “With newly built stormwater systems, reliable indoor climate control, and solar systems with battery backup, these homes offer a safeguard against environmental challenges.”
David expressed deep gratitude for the collaboration with GRID Alternatives, highlighting the professionalism and adaptability the BANC team demonstrated throughout the project.
“I love working with GRID,” David said. “The Tribe is fortunate to have built this connection. GRID’s professionalism and flexibility have been essential in making this project successful.”
Projects like Bi’du Khaale are not just about providing housing or installing solar panels—they are a reflection of the Tribe’s exercise of sovereignty. Discover More About Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians https://drycreekrancheria.com/
