Photo: House near downtown Los Angeles with Solar panels, by DowntownGal, Wikimedia Commons
Oakland, CA – GRID Alternatives, the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing solar energy to underserved communities, is thrilled to announce a significant milestone in their mission to promote clean energy equity. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Solar For All program has awarded $62million to GRID’s Native-led National Tribal Program.
“Today we’re delivering on President Biden’s promise that no community is left behind by investing $7 billion in solar energy projects for over 900,000 households in low-income and disadvantaged communities,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “The selectees will advance solar energy initiatives across the country, creating hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, saving $8 billion in energy costs for families, delivering cleaner air, and combating climate change.”
The National Tribal Program, in coalition with The Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy, Native CDFI Network, and Native Renewables, is poised to revolutionize solar energy access within Native American communities nationwide. This historic funding injection aims to facilitate the deployment of single-family, multifamily, and residential-serving community solar capacity over the next five years. GRID’s coalition will ensure the historical funding will also increase tribal communities’ access to solar storage and upgrades connected to installing more solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
“We are deeply honored and grateful for the EPA Solar For All’s recognition and support of our Native-led National Tribal Program,” said Talia Martin, Co-Executive Director of the National Tribal Program and enrolled member of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. “This funding will enable us to make significant strides in bridging the clean energy gap in Native American communities, supporting their capacity to harness the abundant potential of solar power while fostering tribal economic development and self-sufficiency.”
The National Tribal Program’s mission aligns with the broader objectives of EPA Solar For All, which seeks to reduce greenhouse gasses, expand access to clean renewable energy in historically and systemically excluded communities while advancing environmental justice. GRID and their coalition partners bring experience with mobilizing capital for tribal energy projects, through CDFIs ,private capital, and philanthropy through the Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund. By providing meaningful community engagement and partnering with local tribal leaders, native-led community organizations, and clean energy advocates, GRID Alternatives – National Tribal Program aims to ensure that solar energy benefits are equitably distributed and accessible to all.
“We are honored to be a part of this robust coalition, harnessing this historic funding to bolster solar storage capabilities and implement essential upgrades, advancing our mission of supporting the self-determined efforts of Native American tribes to deploy clean energy on tribal lands. This initiative serves as a vital step towards alleviating poverty, combating climate change, and fostering the creation of sustainable, well-paying green jobs for thousands of tribal members,” said Cheri Smith, Mi’kmaq tribal descendant, President & CEO, Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy.
Over the next five years, the National Tribal Program will focus on implementing solar projects that address the unique energy needs and cultural considerations of Native American communities. These projects will reduce energy costs and dependence on fossil fuels, create local job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and enhance tribal energy sovereignty.
“We believe that everyone deserves access to affordable, and reliable energy solutions,” said Suzanne Singer, Co-Founder/ Executive Director of Native Renewables and a member of the Navajo Nation. “Through collaborative efforts like the National Tribal Program, we can support Indigenous communities in their transition to a renewable energy future.”
With the generous support and technical assistance from EPA Solar For All, GRID Alternatives – National Tribal Program and its partners are poised to make a lasting impact on at least 4,700 households and many generations of families in Native American communities nationwide. Together, they pave the way for a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable energy landscape.
“The Native CDFI Network extends heartfelt congratulations to Grid Alternatives for their remarkable achievement in securing the Solar for All award from the EPA. This prestigious recognition represents a significant step towards achieving clean energy equity within Native communities nationwide. Grid Alternatives’ steadfast dedication and exemplary leadership in advancing this initiative in Indian Country are truly admirable. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with Grid Alternatives to further our shared mission of fostering sustainable Native economies. Congratulations once more on this outstanding accomplishment!” said Pete Upton, CEO, Native CDFI Network.
For more information about GRID Alternatives’ National Tribal Program, visit www.gridalternatives.org/what-we-do/tribal-program.
