GRID Alternatives’ National Tribal Program, since its initiation in 2010 and through the establishment of the TSAF in 2018, aims to assist tribal communities across the United States in achieving their renewable energy goals. This is accomplished by providing access to philanthropic capital through competitive grants and partnering with tribes and tribal individuals to support renewable energy initiatives and job training opportunities. The mission emphasizes on building renewable energy infrastructure that is feasible, cost-effective, encourages broad tribal community participation, and provides tribal members with equitable access to the economic benefits of renewable energy and career pathways.
The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) is a competitive grant program aimed at supporting tribal communities in developing solar energy projects. It prioritizes:
For Tribal Facility Solar Projects, TSAF aims to fund installations such as rooftop, carport, or ground-mount solar solutions that meet community energy needs. These projects are selected based on their potential to generate significant cost-savings, enhance tribal energy development and infrastructure, and support further business development outcomes.
Tribal Residential Solar Projects focus on installing solar energy systems in low-income single-family homes or small multi-family complexes within tribal lands, aiming to significantly reduce electricity costs for tribal members. These projects prioritize low-income households, aiming to stabilize energy expenses and address high energy needs within the community.
Tribes can apply for up to $200,000 in total funding, which may be allocated across facility and residential projects to maximize impact and savings.