The Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self-Determination Act Amendments of 2015, cosponsored by U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner (R-CO), was passed by the Senate this week.
The legislation amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005. It seeks to simplify the Tribal Energy Resource Agreement process and allow for increased energy development on tribal lands, including renewable energy.
“Tribal lands have the potential to make a significant contribution to America’s energy independence,” Gardner said. “Unfortunately, unnecessary barriers to energy development on tribal lands are holding back that contribution and hindering job creation. Our bill breaks down many barriers to job growth and clears a path for tribes to more fully harness the resources available on their lands. Colorado has been home to tremendous advances in the new energy economy, and I’m proud to support this effort to ensure that tribes can play a vital role in the energy revolution.”
The legislation provides eligibility to intertribal organizations for Department of Energy (DOE) Indian energy education planning and management assistance program grants. It also makes tribal energy development organizations eligible for DOE energy development loan guarantees.
Additionally, the legislation would allow business agreements and leases that pool, unitize or communitize a tribe’s energy resources with other energy resources. It would also alter the process and conditions of the Department of Interior’s approval of tribal energy resource agreements.