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

Oct. 21–22, 2025

Second Workshop

Nov. 5–6, 2025

Where

First Workshop

NREL's campus in Golden, Colorado

Second Workshop

NREL's Washington, D.C. office

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
And more.

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).

Registration

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