Tribal Energy Alternatives Launches New Affiliate to Advance Clean Energy Solutions in Indian Country

Tribal Energy Alternatives (TEA), formerly the GRID Alternatives National Tribal Program, proudly announces its official launch as an independent entity dedicated to expanding clean energy access and solutions in Tribal communities nationwide. TEA is GRID Alternative’s first Native-led affiliate, creating energy sovereignty through grant funding, workforce training, policy support, and construction services. This community-centric approach brings long-term solutions to Indian Country and empowers future Native generations to maintain clean energy independence and advance economic development. Please see this video featuring our Co-Executive Directors of Tribal Energy Alternatives, Tanksi Clairmont and Talia Martin to hear more about this launch.

With a mission to empower tribal nations through renewable energy, workforce development, and energy sovereignty initiatives, TEA builds on the impactful legacy of its predecessor. The organization will continue to provide tailored solar energy projects, hands-on training opportunities, and policy advocacy to help tribes reduce energy costs, create local jobs, and foster long-term sustainability.

Since 2010, GRID’s National Tribal Program has worked to help tribal communities coast-to-coast achieve their renewable energy goals through several projects. GRID has made immense strides to localize energy resources, which keeps local economies well-fed and improves long-term economic and environmental development. Other projects include installing local electric systems for tribal members and community facilities. These installations typically reduce household energy bills by 75-90%. Additionally, GRID provides solar installation training by partnering with local tribal colleges and workforce development programs to give the students hands-on solar training and connections to local employers, workshops, and clean mobility education to tribal members, and works with K-12 schools to introduce students to renewable energy. 

“Our transition to Tribal Energy Alternatives marks an exciting new chapter in our commitment to Tribal-led solutions for clean energy,” said Tanksi Clairmont, Co-Executive Director of Tribal Energy Alternatives. “By operating as an independent entity, we are better positioned to deepen our partnerships with tribal communities and develop programs that reflect their unique energy needs and visions for the future.”

Tribal Energy Alternatives remains committed to increasing energy resilience through culturally relevant and community-driven solutions. The organization will work with tribes to design and implement solar energy installations, provide workforce training programs, and advocate for policies that support Tribal energy sovereignty.

Tribal Energy Alternatives | www.tribalalternatives.org