The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs plans to issue a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled "Energy Technology Deployment on Tribal Lands – 2025." This initiative aims to accelerate the deployment of energy technologies on Tribal Lands to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs, and promote economic development. Over $190 million has already been invested in tribal energy projects across the contiguous U.S. and Alaska since 2010, and this program intends to build upon those efforts. The NOFO is scheduled for release in spring 2025, with applications expected to be due approximately 90 days afterward.

The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to promote energy independence, strengthen tribal infrastructure, and bring reliable energy solutions to tribal communities. The program will focus on deploying energy technologies such as energy-generating systems, energy efficiency measures, community-scale energy systems, and integrated systems for unelectrified Tribal Buildings or for resilience during emergencies. Eligible projects must align with four specified Areas of Interest, including installations for Tribal Buildings or community-scale systems and solutions for unelectrified facilities.

Funding will range from $100,000 to $5,000,000 per project, depending on the Area of Interest, with a total of $25 million available. Eligible applicants include federally recognized Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Regional and Village Corporations, Intertribal Organizations, and Tribal Energy Development Organizations. Projects must occur on Tribal Lands, defined broadly to include lands held in trust, land within reservation boundaries, or lands conveyed under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. A cost share of 20% of project costs is required, although a reduction to 10% may be available for tribal communities with significant economic challenges.

Applications will require a detailed submission process. Key documents include Tribal Council Resolutions or equivalent declarations demonstrating project commitment and cost-share resources. Applicants must also register in systems such as IE-Exchange, SAM, FedConnect, and Grants.gov. Applications will only be accepted through the IE-Exchange portal. A 12-month verification period is mandatory as part of the estimated two- to four-year project duration.

Selection criteria will include technical and policy considerations, such as geographic and technological diversity, service to high-cost or unelectrified communities, and consideration of applicants who have not previously received funding. Applicants can stay updated by subscribing to the DOE Office of Indian Energy email newsletter and are encouraged to complete registration requirements in advance. This notice emphasizes that all details are subject to change and does not guarantee the issuance of the NOFO.