by Leslie Martinez
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Tribal communities are investing in clean energy solutions to improve their energy independence, gain control over energy decisions that affect their communities and better protect their land and the environment. Many indigenous communities have already taken on clean energy projects, and they’ve established nonprofits to spread awareness and form partnerships between nations.
The Inflation Reduction Act Spotlights the Need to Better Support Tribal Communities in Response to Climate Change
President Biden’s climate change law, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), set aside $720 million in funding for tribal governments to improve energy efficiency and develop more resilient energy strategies. This funding, alongside other resources provided by IRA programs, strengthens tribal governments and helps reduce the widespread energy poverty present in their communities. Head to Legal Planet to get additional information on IRA provisions.
New Alliance Connects Tribal Communities with Solar Construction Firms That Prioritize Cultural Preservation
To reduce the barriers tribes face implementing renewable energy projects, the Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy was formed to recruit solar construction firms that undergo traditional cultural preservation training. With a total of $20 billion in federal loans available to tribes taking on energy projects, the Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy’s work will help tribes accelerate solar deployment. Read the full article from pv magazine to learn more.
New Tax Credits Will Strengthen Tribal Clean Energy Programs
Rules proposed by the IRS will allow federally recognized American Indian tribes to access the new clean energy tax credits enacted by the Inflation Reduction Act. Tribes will be able to secure financing and reduce costs for the deployment of renewable energy and other clean energy projects on their lands. Read the article from Bloomberg Law to get more details.
California tribal governments set to make infrastructure improvements with support from state agencies
A California Energy Commission resolution commits the agency to supporting tribal governments throughout the state in modernizing critical infrastructure and achieving energy sovereignty. The agency, along with the California Public Utilities Commission, will work with tribes to secure Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) funding from the Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act. Read the details of California Energy Commission’s commitment to action.
