Plugging In: Energizing State-Tribal Energy Collaboration

With support from the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Policy, NREL is hosting two in-person workshops to offer support to states interested in improving state-Tribal collaboration on energy projects.

Both workshops will cover similar material, and travel stipends are available.

When

First Workshop

Jan. 21–22, 2026

Second Workshop

Feb. 2–3, 2026

Where

First Workshop

NREL's campus in Golden, Colorado

Second Workshop

Feb. 2 at NASEO (1812 North Moore St., Arlington, Virginia) and Feb. 3 at the Fairmont Hotel D.C. (in conjunction with NASEO Energy Policy Outlook Conference)

What To Expect

To promote innovative engagement on energy initiatives between states and Tribes, NREL researchers will be joined by Tribal members and subject matter experts to share case studies and best practices in an interactive format. The workshop is specifically designed for state energy offices and state regulators as well as public utilities serving Tribal nations.

The agenda will run for the whole day on the first day and half a day on the second day. Lunch will be on your own. An optional tour of the NREL campus in Golden, Colorado, will be offered.

Topics in both workshops will include:

Tribal sovereignty 101
Types of Tribal entities
Introduction to government-to-government relations
How regulators and utilities can support Tribal energy projects
The role of Tribes in transmission planning.

Register

Travel

A small number of travel stipends will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis to state government energy and regulatory officials (not utilities).

If you have questions about the workshop or travel stipends, contact Allison Smith.