The Indigenous Power & Light Fund for Energy Sovereignty, a groundbreaking initiative backed by a coalition of leading philanthropies, was launched at the Clinton Global Initiative 2024 Annual Meeting. With an initial goal of $100 million, this catalytic fund aims to bridge the financial gap hindering the advancement of tribal clean energy projects, ultimately unlocking billions in federal funding. This fund serves as a crucial catalyst for Native American tribes and Alaska Native communities seeking to achieve energy independence, economic growth, and self-determination while combating climate change.
The fund will prioritize tribal ownership and control, ensuring that the benefits of clean energy projects flow directly to the communities. This empowers tribes to take charge of their energy future, leading to stronger economies, increased self-reliance, and a path towards true sovereignty. This vital initiative addresses longstanding energy injustices faced by tribal communities for over a century, bringing hope and opportunity to those most impacted by the lack of access to clean energy.
The Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy, a Native-led organization dedicated to supporting tribal clean energy transition, spearheads the initiative. With a team of experts in technical, policy, education, and workforce development, the Alliance is uniquely positioned to administer the fund effectively, ensuring that the resources are channeled towards impactful projects that benefit tribal communities.
The Indigenous Power & Light Fund has already garnered significant support, with more than a third of the $100 million goal secured. The fund is on track to reach its target by the end of 2025, poised to become a beacon of hope and a vital source of support for Native communities as they embark on their journey towards a clean energy future. This initiative signifies a pivotal moment in the pursuit of a just transition, empowering Native American and Alaska Native tribes to take control of their energy destinies and shape a more equitable and sustainable future for their communities and generations to come.
