The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs has announced plans to release two Notices of Intent (NOIs) for a total of $30 million in funding later this summer. These funding opportunities aim to advance Tribal energy sovereignty and support the transition to clean energy on Tribal lands and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs).
The first NOI, focusing on Tribal Clean Energy Planning and Development, will provide approximately $25 million to support the planning, assessment, and development of clean energy projects. This funding is intended for Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Regional Corporations, Village Corporations, Intertribal Organizations, and Tribal Energy Development Organizations. Awards will range from $100,000 to $2.5 million, with a 10% recipient cost share anticipated. However, eligible applicants may request a reduction in the cost share based on the economic conditions of their community.
The second NOI will target TCUs, offering around $5 million in planning grants to assist in transitioning their campuses to clean energy. This opportunity is open exclusively to TCUs, though consortia of TCUs can apply through a single representative TCU. Grants will range from $100,000 to $250,000, with no recipient cost share required.
“These planned FOAs are designed to support Tribes and TCUs in laying the groundwork for clean energy projects that will benefit their communities,” said Wahleah Johns, Director of the Office of Indian Energy. “By funding these initial steps, we aim to help Tribes and TCUs find energy solutions that are tailored to their needs.”
The DOE Office of Indian Energy has a history of supporting Tribal energy projects, having invested over $120 million in more than 210 projects between 2010 and 2022. This includes a $75 million commitment to Tribal energy projects selected in 2023.
Discover more from SolarQuarter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
