The Tribal Clean Energy Planning and Development – 2025 funding opportunity, offered by the Department of Energy’s Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs, supports clean energy initiatives on Tribal Lands. This program is intended to address barriers to clean energy development and promote Tribal energy sovereignty. The total funding available under this FOA is approximately $25 million, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $2,500,000, depending on the topic area. The performance period for selected projects is anticipated to be two to three years.

The program covers three main topic areas: (1) Clean Energy Planning, which includes activities like strategic energy planning, energy audits, and skills training; (2) Comprehensive Feasibility and Viability Assessments for clean energy technologies, which must result in detailed project plans; and (3) Design and Development of Clean Energy Projects, focusing on pre-installation design, engineering, and readiness for deployment. Projects must be based on Tribal Lands and provide measurable outcomes such as energy savings, improved resilience, or the development of clean energy infrastructures.

Eligibility is limited to federally recognized Indian Tribes, Intertribal Organizations, and Tribal Energy Development Organizations. Applications may also be submitted on behalf of Tribes by authorized Tribal Organizations. All applicants must demonstrate organizational readiness, provide eligibility evidence, and comply with DOE requirements for land use and governance. A minimum 10% cost share is required unless a reduction is granted based on financial need, such as poverty rate or median household income.

Applicants must submit proposals through the IE-Exchange portal by January 23, 2025, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Required documents include a technical volume, work plan, budget justification, commitment letters, and evidence of eligibility. Each submission must align with the format and content guidelines specified in the FOA, with file limits and page restrictions carefully observed.

Evaluation criteria focus on technical merit, the potential impact of the proposed project, and the capabilities of the project team. Additional considerations include geographic distribution, energy costs in Tribal communities, and previous DOE funding. Selected projects will undergo negotiation before receiving awards.

An informational webinar is scheduled for October 24, 2024, to provide further guidance. For questions or technical issues, applicants can contact the DOE through designated email addresses.