Energy Development on Tribal Lands

About the Event:

This one and a half day conference will outline why developing an energy project with a tribal entity on tribal land is not a traditional project. Attend this conference to have an understanding of federal Indian law, tribal sovereignty, tribal government structures, tribal dispute resolution systems, and the elements of successful project development in Indian Country.

Land under the supervision of the United States government that has been set aside permanently for the use of Native Americans is known as "Indian Country" and is a vital energy resource. The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has estimated that tribal lands can contain 10% of the Nation's traditional and clean energy resources. Prudent developers understand that developing an energy project on tribal land is not a transaction with conventional leases, terms, financing, or collateral. These projects present legal and cultural complexities that must be addressed prior to, proactively, and throughout the entire development life cycle.

Managing the relationship between industry, tribal governments, and tribal community members is important to establishing and maintaining harmonious relationships between stakeholders throughout the energy development process. The speakers will focus on developing a more culturally-relevant understanding of tribal communities and the land they possess. The practical knowledge gained will provide the ability to work with tribes and the various policies related to environmental and cultural resource issues while still developing energy in a cost-effective manner.

Scottsdale Plaza Resort
7200 N Scottsdale Rd
Paradise Valley AZ, 85253

To reserve your room, please call 1- (480) 951-5150.
Please indicate that you are with the EUCI group to receive the group rate.

Room Rate:
The room rate is $169.00 single or double + $17 resort fee per day plus applicable taxes.

Room Block Dates:
A room block has been reserved for the nights of January 27 - 28, 2012.

Rate Available Until:
Make your reservations prior to January 6, 2012. There are a limited number of rooms available at the conference rate. Please make your reservations early.

Click here to view the conferennce agenda.

Learning Outcomes

• Outline development requirements laid out by the BIA and BLM
• Identify the different types of Indian land titles and how each impacts the development process
• Identify the proper protocol for initially approaching and engaging tribes
• Define how to continue a relationship as a liaison during the process
• State values and heritage issues that are prudent to successful development
• Experience first-hand accounts of energy development in Indian Country
• Explain the historical elements of federal Indian policy that have shaped today's environment
• Describe current legislation and policy that governs development relationships in Indian country
• List what organic documents and land records you should be prepared to encounter
• Review organization and business structures utilized by tribes
• Identify the key elements regarding authority, jurisdiction, approval, and dispute resolution
• Assess federal trust responsibilities and the role it plays
• Discuss tribal sovereignty and the jurisdiction that the tribe has over non-members
• Discuss surface leasing, solar, and wind requirements
• Evaluate ROW issues including expired easements and trespass charges
• Recognize permitting and archeological challenges and solutions

Who Should Attend

• Utility professionals involved with generation and procurement of power
• Tribal land owners and officials
• Independent power producers
• Federal, state, county, and local regulatory agencies
• Financial and legal professionals interested in cleantech development
• Energy consultants, project managers, and engineers
• Cleantech developers, manufacturers, and distributors
• Permitting and siting professionals
• Academia involved with renewable energy R&D
• Energy service companies
• Renewable energy trade associations
• Tribal advocacy groups