How tribes are harnessing renewable resources for energy -- and jobs
From Washington to Florida, the renewables industry allows tribes to grow revenue, reduce utility costs and fight climate change.
by Ted McDermott InvestigateWest / April 27, 2022
From Florida to Alaska, dozens of tribes are working to harness energy from wind, sun and water to generate millions of dollars in revenue, create short- and long-term jobs and reduce utility costs for citizens, while also helping combat climate change and boosting energy independence.
Solar energy is leading the way in Indian Country, with projects underway by the Navajo Nation, the Northern Cheyenne Tribe in eastern Montana, the Spokane Tribe in Washington, the Seminole Tribe of Florida and others.
Tribes are also tapping the power of wind and water. In Alaska, tribes are pursuing hydropower to avoid the construction of invasive dams harmful to salmon. And in the Dakotas, a consortium of six Sioux tribes is working with a private firm to develop major wind farms that could power almost 1.5 million homes.
https://crosscut.com/environment/2022/04/how-tribes-are-harnessing-renewable-resources-energy-and-jobs