Building community between utilities and Native nations

Despite progress in recent years, significant challenges remain in fostering relationships between energy utilities and Indigenous communities. Key obstacles include previously unaddressed grievances, a lack of genuine consultation, and insufficient recognition of Indigenous sovereignty and rights. Addressing these issues is essential for building effective and sustainable relationships.

One specific challenge Native nations face is that they are typically the last to receive attention regarding their energy needs. This positioning means they are often the first to lose power during outages and the last to have it restored. There have even been instances where communities have been without power for up to six days.

Extended power outages—especially during ice storms or wind events—can have dire consequences. Residents not only lose heat and light but also risk losing food they have stored from the summer and autumn months.

In addition to these stresses, many Indigenous communities pay exorbitant costs for their energy. For instance, some members have reported heating bills as high as $500 a month for a 1,600-square-foot home. This creates a considerable energy burden, making it challenging for families to get ahead. The systematic disregard for ensuring reliable infrastructure adds to these challenges, with generational effects.

One significant measure aimed at addressing these issues is the Minnesota Conservation, Applied Research, and Development (CARD) program. Projects funded through this initiative help Minnesota utilities identify new technologies and strategies to maximize energy savings, enhance the effectiveness of conservation programs, and document carbon dioxide reductions from these projects.

Slipstream is currently working on a Minnesota CARD-funded project that will demonstrate cost-effective pathways for electrifying homes in two different Indigenous communities in Minnesota. The goal is to help these communities scale up their electrification efforts and increase energy resilience during colder months.

Historically, there have been barriers between utilities and their Indigenous customers, but efforts are underway to ensure that all utility customers receive equal benefits. To learn more about the work Slipstream is doing to help utility companies understand the specific needs of many of our Nation partners, listen to our first podcast episode!