On January 19, 2011, Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced that the Department of Energy (DOE) will make up to $10 million in grants available to Indian tribes through the Department’s Tribal Energy Program this year. The three programs each focus on one of the following areas:
- creating energy efficiency and renewable energy projects on tribal lands that will help save energy and money
- expanding the use of renewable energy resources
- promoting economic development for tribal communities
The announcement continues the Obama Administration’s focus on Indian energy opportunities and follows the recent establishment of the Office of Indian Energy Policies and Programs at DOE. The Department has also significantly increased funding for the Tribal Energy Program this year. Finally, Secretary Chu also announced that the Department will host a national tribal energy summit in May 2011, the details of which will be determined in consultation with Indian Country.
As in the past, tribes and tribal consortia will be able to apply for DOE funding online through www.FedConnect.net or through the DOE’s Tribal Energy Program website at: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/tribalenergy/government_grants.cfm#Tribal
First Steps Toward Developing Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency on Tribal Lands.
The Department has set aside $1.5 million (up to 20 awards) for:
- strategic energy planning
- energy options analysis
- energy organization development
- human capacity building (such as training programs)
Applications are due by March 3, 2011.
Energy Efficiency Development and Deployment in Indian Country
The Department has set aside $4 million (up to 20 awards) for:
- feasibility studies of energy efficiency improvements to existing buildings
- energy efficiency improvements to existing buildings
Applications are due by March 16, 2011.
Renewable Energy Development and Deployment in Indian Country
The Department has set aside $4 million (up to 20 awards) for:
- feasibility studies of future renewable energy projects
- developing and planning renewable energy projects
- construction of renewable energy projects
Applications are due by March 31, 2011.
The increased Tribal Energy grant program opens up energy growth and energy development opportunities to a far wider range of tribes and tribal organizations than previous years. The extent of funding available for study, planning, training, and construction is intended to encourage tribes to look at seriously investing in renewable energy and energy efficiency programs.
If we may be of assistance regarding the DOE Tribal Energy grant program, please contact us at the information below.
