GRID Alternatives’ National Tribal Program, since its initiation in 2010 and through the establishment of the TSAF in 2018, aims to assist tribal communities across the United States in achieving their renewable energy goals. This is accomplished by providing access to philanthropic capital through competitive grants and partnering with tribes and tribal individuals to support renewable energy initiatives and job training opportunities. The mission emphasizes on building renewable energy infrastructure that is feasible, cost-effective, encourages broad tribal community participation, and provides tribal members with equitable access to the economic benefits of renewable energy and career pathways.
The TSAF Tribal Energy Plan Grant program is designed to support the development of Tribal Energy Plans. These plans aim to guide tribal communities toward more sustainable environmental practices by prioritizing sustainable energy initiatives that demonstrate effectiveness, consider local factors, and offer additional benefits such as improved air quality and energy savings. The grant focuses on enabling tribes to efficiently identify and implement strategies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and enhance sustainability. Funding of up to $25,000 for one year can be used to compensate planning teams, hire consultants, conduct public meetings, and facilitate community engagement in the development of these energy plans. TSAF plans to award 16 planning grants to support these objectives within tribal nations.