The Navajo Nation and developer Sithe Global Power say they are committed to a $3 billion coal-fired power plant near Shiprock, New Mexico.

The tribe says the Desert Rock Energy Project will create jobs and generate revenues. But opposition from states, environmental groups and some tribal members has delayed the plant, which was due to open this year.

The opposition led the Environmental Appeals Board to order the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider air permit issued to the tribe. A new application hasn't been submitted, the Associated Press reported.

Separately, the Bureau of Indian Affairs withdrew a biological assessment for the project. The tribe also was denied a federal grant to buy equipment to offset carbon emissions at the plant, the AP reported.

Get the Story:
Navajo Nation stands by power plant despite snags (AP 4/2)

Environmental Appeals Board Decision:
Desert Rock Energy Company, LLC (September 24, 2009)

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