Empowering Tribal communities through clean energy advancements just received a major boost.
$25 Million Investment for Energy Advancements
In a landmark move, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has earmarked $25 million to facilitate the deployment of clean energy technology on Tribal lands. This infusion of funds is a stride toward enhancing energy sovereignty for Tribal communities, improving energy access and security, and extends from the Biden–Harris Administration’s dedication to uphold Tribal sovereignty, respect federal trust and treaty obligations, and guarantee the availability of economical clean energy tech for Tribal nations.
Secretary Granholm Champions Tribal Energy Equity
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm underscores the discrepancy in utility expenses faced by Tribal communities, some of which exceed four times the national average. Access to clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy is not just a necessity but a right, driving the current administration’s efforts to bolster Native communities with the tools to curb high energy costs and fortify energy independence.
Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) Details
The FOA laid out by the DOE is encouraging applications from an array of Native entities with the following objectives in mind:
- The implementation of clean energy-generation and energy-efficiency upgrades for Tribal buildings.
- The roll-out of communal-scale clean energy-generation or energy storage systems on Tribal territories.
- The establishment of autonomous energy systems to maintain crucial Tribal structures independently during emergencies or enhance community resilience.
- The electrification of Tribal buildings that currently lack electricity connections.
Continued Financial Commitment and Previous Achievements
Pick up from the DOE Office of Indian Energy‘s efforts under the Energy Policy Act of 2005, this FOA complements the $75 million already dedicated to Tribal energy initiatives in 2023. Adding to more than $120 million invested since 2010, these funds have enabled the installation of over 46 megawatts of fresh electricity generation capacity, lighting up upwards of 8,800 Tribal buildings. These steps are harmonious with the President’s Justice40 Initiative, ensuring that 40% of the federal clean energy investment fruits are reaped by disadvantaged communities.
Upcoming Webinar and Application Deadline
Intending applicants should mark their calendars for May 30, 2024, the application deadline. Additionally, the DOE’s Office of Indian Energy will conduct an informational webinar on March 14, 2024, to dive deeper into the FOA particulars and application mechanics. Further insight into the FOA can be procured from the Office of Indian Energy Funding Opportunity Exchange.
Bolstering Tribal Participation in Clean Energy Funding
The Biden–Harris Administration is actively engaged with Tribal Nations and Native communities to secure substantial federal funding that can transform their energy landscapes and catalyze economic growth. A resource guide has been published by the DOE to assist Tribal governments and allied organizations in navigating and harnessing these funding avenues.
