The Energy program within the Infrastructure Department at Tanana Chiefs Conference has been actively working on securing funding for energy projects in the region. Specifically, they are currently focused on two large projects involving solar energy in Galena and in North Pole on Badger Road. TCC has secured over $100 million for energy initiatives that will result in projects aiming to improve energy efficiency and sustainability in 12 communities within the TCC region, including Anvik, Shageluk, Holy Cross, Grayling, Kaltag, Nulato, Huslia, Minto, Tok, Venetie, Ruby, and Fort Yukon.
Recent funding awarded to the Energy program includes grants from the EPA Solar for All program, two Department of Energy Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED), and grants from the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Alaska Energy Authority. The program is actively seeking additional funding opportunities to further support Tribal communities in the region.
The focus of the Energy program is on alleviating high energy costs in rural Tribal communities by implementing energy-efficient technologies and alternative energies. The program aims to ensure access to affordable energy in the TCC region, promote tribal energy sovereignty, and lead in the Alaskan energy landscape. Additionally, the program is evolving to meet the unique needs of Tribal communities and reduce reliance on diesel as the sole energy source.
The Energy program team has recently doubled in size, equipping them to efficiently manage existing projects and pursue new funding opportunities. The team is expanding to include two Infrastructure Program Managers who will work on solar and battery projects. Another position will become available for a Rural Energy Specialist.
The Energy program is empowering tribal communities by installing solar PV and battery storage systems to reduce dependence on diesel and promote clean energy production. By integrating these technologies into existing energy structures, the program is working to provide local power production and increase sustainability in the region.
The Energy program collaborates with Tribal leaders, community members, and external partners by attending sub-regional meetings, Tribal Council meetings, and other community gatherings to discuss project details and gather input from community members. This collaboration helps ensure the long-lasting impact of energy projects supported by TCC.
The Energy program differentiates itself from other energy programs in the region by focusing on Tribal energy sovereignty and sustainability. While collaborating with other energy programs in Alaska, TCC addresses the unique challenges faced by communities in the region, and aims to closely involve community members in project installations to share knowledge and promote sustainability.
If your Tribal community is interested in discussing energy-related priorities and projects, please reach out to the TCC Infrastructure Division to plan and collaborate on future energy initiatives. Call Eddie Dellamary, Rural Energy Manager, at 907-452-8251 ext 3279 or email: Edward.Dellamary@tananachiefs.org.