How involved is your tribe in developing energy resources for tribal members? When you look around your reservation, do you see wind, solar, or other energy options being used?
Developing energy in Indian Country is a complex process. However, because 5% of the nation’s natural resources are located on tribal lands, Congress established the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs to provide Tribes, Alaska Natives, and eligible tribal entities with technical and financial assistance around energy and energy infrastructure development in Indian Country.
Here are some ways the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs is helping build a strong foundation for energy development in Indian Country:
Energy Resource Library
More than 100 articles, publications and helpful resources have been compiled to provide information specific to tribal energy development.
On-Demand Technical Assistance
Tribes that are just getting started in the energy development process don’t have to forge the path alone. The Office of Indian Energy offers up to 40 hours of in-depth energy planning and project support.
Renewable Energy Webinar Series
A series of workshops to educate developing commercial- and community-scale renewable energy projects on tribal lands is available free of charge.
Tribal Energy Program
The Tribal Energy Program offers financial and technical assistance to Indian Tribes to help them evaluate and develop renewable energy resources and reduce energy consumption through efficiency and weatherization. As building knowledge and skills is essential to developing, implementing, and sustaining energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, the program also offers education and training opportunities.
Renewable Energy Development Technical Assistance Program
The DOE Office of Indian Energy’s START Program provides Tribes with on-the-ground technical support to accelerate clean energy project deployment.
And that’s not all! The DOE Office of Indian Energy sponsors a 12-week summer internship at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico! Apply now and get first-hand experience with tribal renewable energy projects.
Check with your local community to see how you can get involved.
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