In a new approach beyond climate commitments, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched a Tribal Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Working Group, signaling a commitment to elevating tribal voices and visions in the U.S. energy landscape. This move places tribal sovereignty and leadership at the heart of energy development, from carbon management to economic resilience, empowering tribes to shape their energy futures.
For too long, energy projects on tribal lands have largely been driven by outside interests, often sidelining tribal priorities. Now, this working group represents a shift toward giving tribal nations the resources and support they need to take control of their energy assets in a way that aligns with their long-term goals and values. Through direct access to federal funding, technical guidance, and strategic partnerships, tribal communities can lead sustainable, economically beneficial projects that fit their unique landscapes and communities.
This working group is distinct in its focus on energy sovereignty—helping tribes harness and control their natural resources. Participating nations, such as the MHA Nation and the Southern Ute Tribe, bring valuable fossil and mineral resources, which they can now steward responsibly with the support of DOE resources.
While traditional energy projects have often come at environmental costs, tribes are exploring innovative solutions to mitigate impact and repurpose existing infrastructure. From methane-to-hydrogen conversion to critical mineral processing, tribal nations now have the freedom to redefine what sustainable energy looks like on their lands. “This isn’t just about lowering carbon emissions,” stated Southern Ute representative Demi Morishige. “It’s about building an energy economy that respects our land and builds economic power within our communities.”
This initiative arrives at a pivotal moment when record federal investments, spurred by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, offer tribes unique opportunities to capitalize on billions of dollars in grants and resources. For many tribal communities, these funds mean the chance to build sustainable energy projects and entire industries that create high-paying jobs, support technical training, and drive economic development.
Chairman Bobby Gonzalez of the Caddo Nation shared his excitement about using these funds to pilot methane conversion projects that turn greenhouse gases into clean hydrogen fuel. “We’re finally at the table, bringing real solutions that support our people and lower emissions across our lands,” he said. “This isn’t just an energy project—it’s a vision for our future.”
Forming this working group is a turning point that respects tribal knowledge and vision as integral to America’s clean energy future. As tribes take charge of their carbon management, critical minerals, and methane mitigation projects, they are innovating and setting a standard for environmentally and culturally mindful energy management.
This shift signals a trend toward tribal-led solutions prioritizing long-term sustainability and prosperity. The working group will kick off with virtual briefings to introduce tribal leaders to the latest technologies in carbon capture, critical minerals, and emissions reduction, ensuring they have the tools needed to implement projects that create lasting change.
