At NAFOA’s recent conference in Boston, I stopped by the Office of Indian Energy and Economic Development table. I spoke to two representatives of the Division of Energy and Mineral Development.
Most people who follow Indian Country renewable energy projects know about the Energy and Mineral Development Program (EMDP) grant. EMDP funds tribes’ efforts to evaluate their renewable energy assets and position themselves for success. But OIEED has learned, over the years, that underlying legal and regulatory barriers can derail energy projects even in resource-rich areas.
OIEED’s new program is called the Tribal Energy Development Capacity (TEDC) Grant. You can find the details here.
This program can help tribes who want to pursue energy projects to build a sound legal and corporate foundation. On top of that foundation, future renewable energy development can grow strong. I found OIEED staff to be very knowledgeable and eager to share this information with Indian Country.
If you are pursuing energy projects, I strongly recommend you check it out.