Clean energy on the horizon: new legislation that would promote renewable energy in Indian Country
Congress recently passed an energy bill that creates an incentive for Indian tribes to pursue renewable energy programs. H.R. 2454 sets forth mandates for increasing energy efficiency by supporting the use of renewable energy and limiting emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. To support the overarching goal of reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that are behind climate change, H.R. 2454 creates a system of emission allowances, or limits, which will be distributed among the States as well as reserved for Indian tribes. The bill dedicates 0.5 percent of allowances for Indian renewable energy and energy efficiency programs, and divides the remaining allowances among the States. The allowances reserved for tribes will be distributed on a competitive basis for cost-effective energy efficiency programs that impact natural gas, propane, and home heating oil consumers, as well as for programs that promote the use of technology to generate electricity from renewable sources.
The competition for allowances will be judged according to objective criteria and include reporting requirements for tribes that receive allowances. The House approved the bill on June 26, and as of July 7 it is on the Senate’s legislative calendar. If approved, the Act could create a stronger market for renewable energy development on tribal land.
