Local energy fuels Apache independence
Arizona’s northeasternmost county, Apache is the third-largest county in the state by area, covering more than 11,000 square miles. Approximately 65,000 people live in the county and over 70% of residents are Indigenous or Native American.
Key Facts
94% of water in Apache County is groundwater with 6% coming from surface water like the Black and White Rivers, Chinle Creek and the Little Colorado River. Over 60% of that water is used for coal power generation, while 25% is used by residents & municipalities. (source)
Three coal power plants operate in the county, employing around 800 people. The county receives an average of 280 days of sunshine per year, along with some of the best wind energy in the state, underscoring the county’s potential for clean energy development.
The largest employers in Apache County are health care, public administration and education services with over 50% of jobs coming from those industries. Energy & construction jobs are the next largest sectors, providing just under 20% of local jobs.
Get Involved
Send a letter today and ask your Supervisor to support policies that unleash Arizona’s energy potential while keeping costs low, conserving our water, and creating energy independence for Apache County.
Attend a public meeting and make your voice heard! Here’s the details:
Apache County Board of Supervisors
Dates: July 7, 2026; August 17, 2026; September 1, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Board of Supervisors Room, Apache County Annex, 75 West Cleveland Street. St. Johns, AZ 85936
Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Chinle District I Road Yard Administration Building, U.S. Highway 191, Mile Post 446.9, Chinle Arizona
Apache County Planning & Zoning Commission
Dates: July 1, 2026; August 5, 2026; September 2, 2026; October 7, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Board of Supervisors Room, Apache County Annex, 75 West Cleveland Street. St. Johns, AZ 85936
