U.S. Department of Energy announced $50 million for clean energy technology projects on Tribal lands to help Indigenous peoples plot their own energy futures.
The money is intended to "strengthen Tribal energy sovereignty" by lowering energy costs, increasing energy security and resilience and providing electricity in currently unelectrified buildings, according to a Feb. 17 news release.
"Tribal nations are a key partner in the fight to combat the climate crisis, and their visionary leadership is critical to the nation’s transition to an equitable clean energy future," Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm said in the news release. "This new investment will help Indigenous communities everywhere make informed decisions about their own energy needs and unlock stronger economies and increased access to reliable and affordable clean energy resources."
DOE is seeking applications for the funding opportunity announcement from Indian Tribes, including Alaska Native Regional Corporations and Village Corporations, Intertribal Organizations and Tribal Energy Development Organizations, the release reported.
Eligible projects include clean energy generating systems and/or energy efficiency measures for Tribal buildings; deployment of community-scale clean energy generating systems or community energy storage on Tribal lands; integrated energy systems for autonomous operation installation; and electric power to Tribal buildings not otherwise electrified, according to the release
Funding for eligible projects will be available in the 2022 and 2023 budgets with an anticipated 10 to 25 awards ranging from $100,000 to $5 million, the release reported.
Applicants may submit more than one application, with each application for a different project and each application addressing only one subtopic area, according to the release. Applications will be accepted from a consortium of Indian Tribes, so long as the applications are submitted by a single Indian Tribe representing the Tribal Consortium.
Applications are due by 5 p.m. Eastern Time May 16, the release reported. DOE's Office of Indian Energy is planning an informational webinar Feb. 28, to provide interested applicants with more information, including how to apply.
