The Yakama Nation has found it nearly impossible to access $32 million in a promised federal grant for an irrigation canal conversion project. 

The initiative aims to transform old irrigation canals into a solar and small-scale hydropower system, which would lower electricity costs and conserve water in the Yakima Basin.

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell celebrated the project earlier this year for its potential benefits.

While incentives for renewable energy are abundant, the bureaucratic processes to implement them can be frustratingly slow.

Soundside caught up with investigative reporter Tony Schick to hear more about why the project is stalling. His recent story on the issue was produced in partnership with OPB, ProPublica, and High Country News.

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Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.

Guests:

• Tony Schick, investigative reporter and editor at Oregon Public Broadcasting. 

Related Links: 

• The Department of Energy promised this tribal nation a $32 million solar grant. It’s nearly impossible to access - OPB