Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an amendment authored by Representative Grijalva and co-sponsored by Representative Deb Haaland (D-N.M.) that provides tribal governments with more funding to evaluate and develop renewable energy resources on tribal lands. The amendment will increase the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs by $2 million--a nearly 10 percent increase--and reduce Fossil Energy Research and Development by $2.4 million.
"Renewables are the future of American energy, and what better way to invest in that future than supporting the efforts of tribal nations to harness the power of their own renewable resources," said Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva, Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee. "With tribal energy costs significantly higher than the national average, investing in renewable energy can significantly lower costs while improving the lives of those living on the reservation."
"Our country can move forward in a renewable energy revolution that creates good paying jobs while combatting climate change, but often Tribes are left behind when new technology and economic opportunities come around. Through our amendment to boost funding for this program, we're committing to ensuring Native American communities don't get left behind on the road to prosperity that a renewable energy economy can create," said Congresswoman Deb Haaland, Vice Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee.
Funding through the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs may be used by tribal governments to offer education and training opportunities designed to foster clean energy technology adoption and promote green jobs and growth.