Shoshone-Bannock Tribal (2024)

Shoshone-Bannock Tribal

Department of Energy

2024 Strategic

Energy Plan

PREPARED BY

FUNDED BY

ENERGY RESOURCE PROGRAM & SHOSHONEBANNOCK TRIBES

DOE OFFICE OF INDIAN ENERGY

PROGRAMS

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

NATIONAL RENEWABLE NATIONAL

LABRATORY

Dear Members and Friends of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes,

As we stand at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, I am honored to present the ShoshoneBannock Tribes' 2024 Strategic Energy Plan (SEP). This document is not just a roadmap for energy

development; it's a testament to our commitment to energy sovereignty, a future where our

community is empowered by sustainable and resilient energy systems that respect our values and

way of life.

Energy sovereignty, to us, means more than independence. It embodies our right and capability to

manage our energy resources in harmony with our cultural beliefs, ensuring environmental

stewardship and economic benefit for our people. Sustainability and resilience in this context reflect

our dedication to creating energy solutions that are not only environmentally sound but also robust

against the challenges of today and tomorrow.

This plan was born from a collective vision. It outlines strategies to strengthen our internal capacity,

improve energy efficiency across our lands, explore and implement renewable energy projects,

enhance transportation systems, and ensure our infrastructure can withstand and adapt to changing

climates. Each step we propose is a building block towards a future where our energy needs are met

in ways that honor our ancestors while securing the well-being of future generations.

We recognize that achieving this vision requires the support and involvement of our entire community.

Your insights, experiences, and participation are invaluable to this journey. We invite you to join us in

upcoming community meetings and workshops to share your thoughts and learn more about how we

can collectively move forward.

For those eager to contribute or seeking more information, please feel free to reach out. Our doors

are open and together, we can pave the way to a sustainable and resilient energy future.

In unity, anticipation, and optimism,

Alana Edmo

Alana Edmo

Energy Resources Coordinator

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes

Executive Summary

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes' 2024 Strategic Energy Plan (SEP) represents a

forward-looking and comprehensive framework aimed at achieving energy sovereignty,

sustainability, and resilience for our community. Developed through a collaborative

effort that included tribal leaders, staff, community members, and external partners, the

SEP reflects our shared values, culture, history, and aspirations for a sustainable

future.

Strategic Framework

The SEP addresses nine critical energy-related areas:

1. Internal Capacity Building and Energy Management: Enhancing our ability to

manage energy resources effectively and sustainably.

2. Energy Efficiency: Implementing measures to reduce energy consumption across

tribal facilities and homes, aiming for a significant reduction in energy use.

3. Facility-Scale Renewable Energy: Developing renewable energy projects that

serve specific facilities, with an emphasis on solar power.

4. Community and Utility-Scale Renewable Energy: Exploring larger renewable

energy projects that can benefit the entire community and contribute to our

energy sovereignty.

5. Transportation: Seeking sustainable transportation solutions, including the

potential adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and supporting infrastructure.

6. Resilience: Building our community's capacity to withstand and recover from

energy-related challenges and emergencies.

7. Outreach and Advocacy: Engaging with the community and beyond to promote

our energy goals and seek support for our initiatives.

8. Education and Workforce Development: Fostering knowledge and skills within

our community to support the energy transition and create job opportunities.

9. Miscellaneous Projects: Undertaking a variety of projects that support our overall

energy vision, including initiatives focused on recycling and conservation.

Living Document

The Strategic Energy Plan is designed to be a living document, guiding our energy

decisions and actions for the next decade and beyond. It will be periodically reviewed

and updated to reflect our progress, achievements, and evolving needs. This dynamic

approach ensures that the Strategic Energy Plan remains relevant and responsive to

new opportunities and challenges.

Vision for the Future

Our vision, "Energizing a Sustainable Reservation," calls for a balanced approach to

energy and sustainability. We are committed to green energy solutions that are

environmentally responsible and aligned with our cultural values. The Strategic Energy

Plan outlines a future where our community is self-sufficient, resilient, and empowered

through the thoughtful development and management of our energy resources.

Invitation to Engage

We invite all members of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and residents of the Fort Hall

Reservation to engage with the SEP, contribute their ideas, and participate in our

energy future. This plan is a collective endeavor, and its success depends on the active

involvement and support of our entire community.

Together, we will work towards a future that honors our heritage while embracing the

opportunities of the modern energy landscape, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous

environment for generations to come.

Glossary of Terms

Anaerobic Digester: A device that converts organic waste into biogas and fertilizer.

Biomass: Organic material that can be used as a source of energy, such as wood, crops,

or animal waste.

Carbon Footprint: The amount of greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual,

organization, or activity.

Demand Response: A program that incentivizes customers to reduce or shift their

electricity use during peak periods or when the grid is stressed.

Distributed Generation: Small-scale power generation that is located close to the point of

consumption, such as rooftop solar panels or wind turbines.

Energy Audit: A process of assessing the energy performance of a building or facility and

identifying opportunities for improvement.

Energy Efficiency: The ratio of useful output to energy input, or the practice of using less

energy to provide the same or better service.

Energy Management: The process of planning, monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the

energy use of a building, facility, or organization.

Energy Sovereignty: The ability of a community or nation to control its own energy sources,

systems, and decisions.

Energy Storage: Technologies that store excess electricity for later use, such as batteries,

flywheels, or pumped hydro.

Geothermal Energy: Heat energy that is generated and stored in the earth.

Grid: The network of transmission and distribution lines that delivers electricity from

power plants to customers.

Hydropower: Electricity generated by the movement of water, such as dams, rivers, or

tides.

Glossary of Terms

Load: The amount of electricity demand at a given time or location.

Microgrid: A small-scale power system that can operate independently or in coordination

with the main grid, and can provide backup power during outages.

Net Metering: A policy that allows customers who generate their own electricity to sell the

excess back to the utility at a fixed rate.

Peak Demand: The highest level of electricity demand in a given period, usually during the

day or season.

Photovoltaic (PV): A technology that converts sunlight into electricity using solar cells.

Renewable Energy: Energy that comes from sources that are replenished naturally, such

as solar, wind, hydro, biomass, or geothermal.

Resilience: The ability of a system or community to withstand and recover from shocks

and stresses, such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, or climate change.

Smart Grid: A modernized grid that uses digital technologies, sensors, and

communication to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and security of the electricity

system.

Solar Thermal: A technology that uses sunlight to heat water or air for space heating, water

heating, or industrial processes.

Wind Energy: Electricity generated by the movement of air using wind turbines.

Energy Vision

“Energizing a Sustainable Reservation”

At the heart of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes' 2024 Strategic Energy Plan (SEP)

lies a vision that is both ambitious and deeply rooted in our values: "Energizing

a Sustainable Reservation." This vision is crafted with a profound respect for our

land, a commitment to our community's well-being, and a forward-looking

approach to technology and sustainability. It encapsulates our journey towards a

future where energy is not merely consumed, but harmoniously integrated with

our way of life.

Green Energy and Sustainability

Our pursuit of green energy solutions is guided by an unwavering commitment

to sustainability and an environmentally minimal footprint. We envision a

reservation where the natural beauty, from the expansive Snake River to the

majestic Portneuf Range and the fertile lands of the Fort Hall Bottoms, is

preserved and cherished. Our energy initiatives are designed to complement

our landscape, prioritizing developments that support a healthy, green, and

clean standard of living for all community members.

Self-Determination and Self-Sufficiency

Central to our energy vision is the principle of self-determination. We believe in

harnessing energy as a means to achieve economic independence and bolster

our community's prosperity. Through strategic energy development, we aim to

support thriving local businesses, such as the Shoshone-Bannock Hotel and

Event Center, the Trading Post, and the Bannock Peak Casino. Moreover, we

are committed to creating opportunities for individual empowerment and selfimprovement through education, training, and entrepreneurship, ensuring that

our energy future is one that all community members can shape and benefit

from.

Embracing Technology While Preserving Traditional Values

Energy Vision

Our vision acknowledges the critical role of modern technology in achieving our

energy goals. We are open to adopting and innovating with renewable energy

technologies that benefit our economy, our natural and cultural resources, and

the health and safety of our reservation. However, we are equally committed to

ensuring that these technological advances do not erode our traditional values

and identity. Education, particularly in bridging Western science with our

traditional knowledge, is a cornerstone of this vision. Programs in energy

education and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are

vital for preparing our youth for the future, ensuring they respect and honor

Mother Earth as responsible stewards of our resources.

A Call to Action

"Energizing a Sustainable Reservation" is more than a statement of intent; it is a

call to action for the entire Shoshone-Bannock community. This vision invites

every community member to participate in shaping our energy future,

contributing ideas, and supporting initiatives that lead us toward sustainability,

resilience, and sovereignty in our energy resources. Together, we will navigate

the challenges and opportunities ahead, building an energy-independent future

that honors our past, enriches our present, and secures a thriving, sustainable

world for generations to come.

Introduction

In today's world, energy stands at the forefront of our most pressing challenges,

intertwining with environmental sustainability, economic stability, social equity,

and individual well-being. The imperative to transition towards more sustainable,

efficient, and community-centric energy systems is clear. Our collective future

hinges on our ability to reimagine and reshape our energy practices.

In alignment with our established energy vision, the Energy Working Group

(EWG) embarked on a meticulous process to identify and define achievable

goals and tangible projects that embody our commitment to this vision. This

journey began with a comprehensive review of our current energy landscape,

evaluating both ongoing and completed projects, and establishing a baseline

from which to measure progress. This foundational understanding informed our

exploration of diverse strategies and initiatives, leading to the formulation of

specific, targeted goals.

The development of these goals was a collaborative and inclusive effort, marked

by a series of discussions and brainstorming sessions among EWG members.

We engaged in deep dives into potential energy solutions, refining our ideas

through collective deliberation. To ensure our plan reflected the broader

community's aspirations and concerns, we conducted a survey, inviting input

from across the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes.

The culmination of this process is a set of prioritized goals centered around key

areas: enhancing energy management practices, improving energy efficiency

across tribal facilities, advancing facility-scale renewable energy projects, and

expanding community outreach and education. Each goal is accompanied by

specific projects designed to operationalize our vision, representing the

cornerstone of our Strategic Energy Plan.

Benefits of Clean Energy

The benefits of clean energy for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are multifaceted,

encompassing environmental, economic, social, and cultural dimensions. These

benefits collectively contribute to the Tribes' resilience, sustainability, and selfsufficiency. Below are the key benefits of adopting clean energy solutions for the

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes:

Environmental Benefits

Reduction in Carbon Emissions: Clean energy sources, such as solar, wind, and

hydroelectric power, produce little to no greenhouse gases compared to fossil

fuels. This reduction is crucial for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes in combating

climate change and protecting their natural resources.

Conservation of Natural Resources: Clean energy minimizes the depletion of

natural resources, ensuring that water, land, and air quality are maintained or

improved. This is vital for preserving these elements for the future generations of

the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and supporting traditional lifestyles and practices.

Biodiversity Protection: By reducing the need for mining and drilling activities

associated with fossil fuel extraction, clean energy contributes to the preservation

of ecosystems and biodiversity, which are often central to the Shoshone-Bannock

Tribes' cultures and subsistence.

Economic Benefits

Energy Independence and Security: Generating their own clean energy allows

the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes to reduce their dependence on external energy

suppliers, enhancing energy security and control over their energy resources.

Job Creation: The development, installation, and maintenance of clean energy

infrastructure can create jobs within the Tribes, providing employment

opportunities for tribal members in the growing clean energy sector.

Cost Savings: Over time, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes' investment in clean

energy technologies can lead to significant savings on energy bills, as renewable

energy sources have lower operational costs compared to conventional energy

sources.

Social and Cultural Benefits

Health Improvements: Clean energy reduces air and water pollution, leading to

better health outcomes for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes by decreasing

respiratory and other pollution-related diseases.

Support for Traditional Values and Practices: Many tribes, including the

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, place a high value on environmental stewardship and

living in harmony with nature. Adopting clean energy aligns with these values,

supporting the preservation and practice of cultural traditions and lifestyles.

Educational Opportunities: The process of researching, implementing, and

managing clean energy projects can provide educational opportunities for

members of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, enhancing skills and knowledge in

sustainable practices and technologies.

Strategic Advantages

Leadership and Sovereignty: By leading in clean energy initiatives, the ShoshoneBannock Tribes can set an example for sustainable development, enhancing their

sovereignty and leadership role in environmental stewardship.

Attracting Investments: If the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes invest in clean energy,

this can attract additional funding and partnerships from government, private

sectors, and NGOs interested in promoting renewable energy and sustainability.

Adaptability to Climate Change: Clean energy infrastructure can be designed to

be more resilient to the impacts of climate change, ensuring a more sustainable

and reliable energy supply for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes in the face of

changing environmental conditions.

In summary, the transition to clean energy presents an opportunity for the

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes to enhance their environmental health, economic

prosperity, social well-being, and cultural integrity, paving the way for a

sustainable and self-sufficient future.

Internal Capacity Building and Energy Management

Enhancing our internal capabilities is paramount. We plan to expand our Energy

Resource Program by investing in our staff through education and training, such

as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL) Executive Energy

Leadership Program. Our aim is to develop a robust team capable of leading and

managing our energy initiatives effectively.

In our ongoing journey towards energy independence and stewardship, the

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes have laid a solid foundation of strategic initiatives and

forward momentum. This progression, which began with the inception of our

Energy Management Program in 2002, continues to unfold, shaping the future of

energy on our reservation.

Our past efforts have been characterized by a commitment to

understanding and mitigating our environmental impact, as reflected in the

recent Community Action Plan on Greenhouse Gases. We have actively

invested in our team's expertise by participating in programs such as the

NREL Executive Energy Leadership Program—a tradition that we intend to

maintain for the enrichment of our staff's capabilities.

The 2014 Strategic Plan was a significant milestone, bringing structure and

direction to our energy endeavors. This strategic framework is not static;

it's continuously informed by an ongoing collection and review of energy

consumption and cost data, ensuring that our actions are data-driven and

targeted.

Looking ahead from 2023 to 2025, we have embraced a series of actionable

goals. The adoption of the Strategic Energy Plan by the Tribal Council

marks the beginning of this period, setting in motion a series of deliberate

and transformative steps. We aim to comprehensively determine how to

best organize our efforts, which will be encapsulated in a community action

plan—its message to be widely disseminated through our tribe's website and

brochures.

A pivotal point in our plan is to create mechanisms to capture and reinvest

savings from renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. This will

allow us to sustain and expand our energy initiatives. Moreover, we

recognize the necessity of an Energy Information Management Strategy, as

well as the value of installing an Energy Information System to cent ralize

and streamline our energy data.

By hiring an Energy Resource Manager, we will have dedicated leadership

to focus on the intricacies of energy management within the Tribes. This

role will be crucial in developing our Energy Resource Program's strate gic

program plan—a comprehensive roadmap of projects.

As we cast our gaze to the medium term (2-5 years), our focus sharpens on

maintaining a dynamic and continuously developed energy resource staff.

It is during this time that we will also develop and refine our strategic

program plan, providing a clear direction for our energy projects.

Looking to the long term (5-10 years), our vision broadens as we engage in

financial program management and seek out innovative funding

opportunities, such as Department of Energy loan funds for tribal

community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to administer

residential solar loans.

Our narrative is one of growth, learning, and empowerment. Each goal and

project within our plan are not merely a task—it's a chapter in our story, a

step towards a sustainable future that honors our past, serves our present,

and secures the well-being of generations to come.

Energy Efficiency (EE)

A cornerstone of our strategy is to significantly reduce energy consumption across

all tribal facilities by 50% over the next decade. This will involve conducting

comprehensive energy audits, implementing energy-saving measures based on

audit recommendations, and embracing energy-efficient technologies in both

existing structures and new constructions. Priority will be given to community

lodges, given their critical role in our Emergency Planning and Response Plans.

As we navigate the path toward a more sustainable future, the ShoshoneBannock Tribes have dedicated themselves to enhancing energy efficiency

across our lands—a commitment that is both a responsibility and a reflection of

our respect for the environment.

Over recent years, we have made considerable strides in reducing our energy

footprint. Notably, we have initiated energy audits on five key government and

community buildings—a process that remains ongoing, providing us with critical

data to inform future actions. These efforts are coupled with collecting interval

data for large electrical loads, an endeavor that helps us pinpoint opportunities for

energy savings.

Our Energy Resource Program has been empowered through specialized training

to conduct energy audits, ensuring that our capacity to optimize energy use is

reinforced by expertise and knowledge. This initiative has been complemented by

practical measures such as utilizing right-of-way funds to help community

members install updated screen doors for better energy efficiency.

We've also sought to leverage external funding to enhance our energy efficiency

measures, such as pursuing grants from the State of Idaho's Department of

Environmental Quality for upgrades to wood-burning stoves in residential

dwellings. These upgrades are aimed not only at energy savings but also at

improving indoor air quality.

In the immediate years ahead, our focus will be on making our community lodges

more energy-efficient. Recognized as critical staging areas for emergency

planning and response, the upgrades to these lodges are of high priority. Further,

we intend to pass an energy efficiency policy or code applicable to new

construction, ensuring that our future growth is in line with our sustainability

values.

The medium term will see us facilitate energy efficiency implementation in offreservation structures, recognizing the importance of extending our efforts

beyond our immediate geographic boundaries. Concurrently, we will conduct

energy audits for all housing units on the reservation, a comprehensive approach

that lays the groundwork for widespread efficiency improvements.

We will also focus on implementing the audit recommendations for the initial five

buildings we have audited. This will involve updating building codes on the

reservation to include renewable resources and considering the engagement of

an Energy Service Company (ESCO) to help design and implement a range of

energy solutions including retrofits and conservation measures.

Looking toward the horizon, our long-term vision includes the implementation of

energy efficiency measures across all Shoshone-Bannock Tribes government

and community buildings. This expansive goal underlines our commitment to a

broad and enduring transformation that will touch every corner of our community's

infrastructure.

The narrative of our energy efficiency journey is one of ongoing progression,

learning, and adaptation. By methodically building upon our past and current

initiatives, and setting ambitious but achievable future goals, we move closer to

our vision of a community that exemplifies energy efficiency and environmental

stewardship for generations to come.

Facility Scale Renewable Energy (RE)

We are committed to developing renewable energy projects that serve our

facilities directly. Although current initiatives are modest, our vision includes

installing photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on our highest energy-consuming

buildings, with an eventual goal to extend this to all tribal buildings, including

innovative solutions like solar panel-covered parking lot canopies.

In our pursuit of energy sovereignty and resilience, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes

have embarked on an ambitious path to revolutionize our energy generation on a

scale that aligns with our community’s needs and values.

Our journey began with meticulous research and planning. We compiled a

comprehensive list of potential grant funding sources, ensuring that we are wellpositioned to capitalize on available financial support for our renewable energy

projects. This proactive approach is complemented by our exploration of

innovative technologies, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), to determine

their viability for our reservation. Additionally, small-scale off-grid renewable

energy installations, spearheaded by our Fish & Wildlife Program, have laid the

groundwork for larger-scale projects.

As we progress, our short-term focus (2023-2025) is on installing photovoltaic

(PV) systems on the three highest energy-consuming government and

community buildings. This initiative reflects our commitment to leveraging solar

power to reduce our carbon footprint and enhance our energy independence. We

are also considering the safety and structural integrity of our buildings to

determine the most suitable installation methods.

Simultaneously, we are delving into the feasibility of microgrids for essential

services, which could provide reliable power to critical service locations. A

thorough assessment of our top energy-consuming buildings is underway to

identify where additional PV installations could be most effective.

Our vision for a sustainable future also includes researching the potential for

hydrogen energy on the reservation, a step that signifies our openness to

embracing emerging renewable energy sources.

In the medium term, we will extend our solar energy installations to the remaining

government and community buildings identified as high usage and feasible for PV

systems. This phase will also see the installation of solar panels on district lodge

water wells, an innovative approach to combining water management with

renewable energy.

Looking towards the next five to ten years, our long-term plan is to create

infrastructural landmarks with solar panel-covered parking lot canopies at key

facilities around Fort Hall. These will serve as a testament to our commitment to

clean energy and a visual representation of our energy goals coming to fruition.

From laying the groundwork with small-scale projects to envisioning a future

powered by solar canopies, our Facility Scale Generation Action Plan is a

blueprint for sustainable development. It reflects a balance between immediate

actions and long-term aspirations, ensuring that each step we take is both

strategic and aligned with our ultimate goal of establishing a resilient, selfsufficient community powered by clean, renewable energy.

Community and Utility Scale Renewable Energy (RE)

Looking beyond individual facilities, we aim to develop larger, grid-connected

renewable energy projects. This includes exploring the feasibility of a tribe-owned

utility authority and assessing the potential for utility-scale solar and wind projects

that can generate revenue and contribute to our energy sovereignty.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes have been actively engaged in laying the

groundwork for a sustainable and self-reliant energy future. Our past efforts have

been marked by critical exploratory steps such as the Utility-Scale Solar

Feasibility Study conducted in 2020, which set the stage for prospective revenuegenerating projects. Although our attempt to establish a wind farm in 2011 was

unsuccessful, it provided valuable insights into the complexities of large-scale

renewable energy projects.

In 2020, a feasibility study for revenue generation was launched with the goal of

utilizing renewable energy resources to meet and amplify community needs, such

as the ambitious 100-megawatt solar development. This endeavor is buoyed by

the Idaho National Laboratory's commitment to purchasing 10 megawatts of

power, highlighting the potential for collaborative growth and economic

development.

As we move into the 2023-2025 planning window, our focus shifts to assessing

the overall feasibility of both community and utility-scale energy projects. This

assessment, which we aim to facilitate through DOE-IE Technical Assistance

requests, will encompass the technical, regulatory, and financial aspects

essential for informed decision-making. Furthermore, we are considering the

establishment of our own utility authority, which would signify a significant step

towards energy independence.

In the medium term, a reservation-wide feasibility study on wind potential is slated

to take place, reflecting our continued interest in diversifying our energy mix. This

study will inform a tribe-wide conversation about the future of wind energy

development, ensuring that any pursuit of wind energy aligns with both our

environmental goals and economic interests.

Our long-term vision remains steadfastly focused on the development of

renewable energy resources, ensuring that the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are not

only participants in the energy economy but also leaders in sustainable energy

practices. Through these strategic initiatives, we strive to reinforce our energy

sovereignty and create a lasting positive impact on our community and the

environment.

Transition to Clean Municipal Fleets & Equipment

Recognizing the challenges of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) due to cost

and infrastructure concerns, we plan to gradually build the necessary

infrastructure for EV charging stations. These stations will not only serve our

community but also offer business opportunities by catering to non-tribal

members visiting our reservation.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are steering towards an innovative transportation

future that marries sustainability with modernity. Our vision for the coming years

is defined by a clear roadmap to electrify transportation across our lands, reducing

our carbon footprint and leading by example in the use of clean energy vehicles.

In the near term, we are focused on the foundational work of establishing an onreservation electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. By 2028, we aim to have

a network of charging stations accessible to our community, significantly

enhancing the convenience and feasibility of EV ownership. This infrastructure

will not only serve our current needs but also pave the way for the next steps in

our transportation evolution.

By 2023-2025, our plan includes the installation of EV charging stations at

strategically chosen community sites, especially those with easy access from

interstate highways. This move will not only facilitate a smoother transition to EVs

for our residents but also cater to visitors, reinforcing our role as leaders in

sustainable transportation.

In tandem with infrastructure development, we will begin acquiring hybrid or

electric vehicles as ongoing replacements for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes

government and enterprise vehicle fleets. This gradual transition reflects our

commitment to sustainability and our anticipation of future transportation trends.

As we move beyond the immediate five years and look towards the long term, we

envision a complete transformation of our vehicle fleet, with all SBT government

and enterprise vehicles being electric by 2033. This ambitious goal signals our

dedication to creating a cleaner, greener future for our community and the

environment.

This strategic direction in transportation underlines our belief that a move towards

electrification is not just about adopting new technologies, but also about fostering

a culture of environmental stewardship and resilience within our community. It is

a journey we undertake with the future in mind, ensuring that the ShoshoneBannock Tribes are at the forefront of sustainable transportation initiatives.

Resilience

Developing a shared understanding of resilience within our community is vital.

We will engage our community to establish resilience priorities, focusing initially

on creating emergency safe zones powered by sustainable energy sources.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes have recognized the critical importance of

resilience in the face of environmental and societal changes. Our past initiatives

have laid the groundwork for a comprehensive strategy that emphasizes

community involvement and sustainable energy practices as cornerstones of our

resilience.

We have already taken significant strides in this direction with the Wind & Solar

Feasibility Study conducted in 2018, which has served to deepen our

understanding of the potential for renewable energy resources on our lands. This

study has been instrumental in guiding our approach to building a resilient energy

infrastructure that can withstand and adapt to future challenges.

As we look towards the period from 2023 to 2025, our focus will be on identifying

and addressing the specific resilience needs of the Tribe. This will include

determining the requirements for an emergency evacuation center and ensuring

the reliability of power for our critical infrastructure. These steps are crucial for

safeguarding our community members and maintaining essential services during

times of crisis.

In the medium term, we aim to solidify our resilience by installing safe zones

across the reservation. These safe zones will be equipped with the necessary

resources to provide refuge and support to our community in emergency

situations, reflecting our commitment to preparedness and proactive planning.

Over the next 5 to 10 years, our vision is to further integrate resilience into our

community's fabric, including developing the capability for our energy grid to

seamlessly connect and disconnect, ensuring flexibility and continuity of service.

This "on and off ramp" to the grid will empower us to maintain energy autonomy

and manage our resources effectively, even as external conditions fluctuate.

Our Resilience Action Plan is not just a set of goals; it is a pledge to foster a

resilient community that can thrive in the face of adversity. It encompasses a

shared commitment to engage every member of our community in building a

robust and adaptable energy future.

Outreach and Advocacy

Our outreach efforts will include educational booths at tribal events to inform

community members about energy programs and opportunities. We will also

strengthen our partnerships with local utility providers, state governments, and

federal agencies to advocate for policies and regulations that support our energy

goals.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes understand that successful energy initiatives are

not just about technology and infrastructure, but also about strong relationships,

education, and policy advocacy. In our Outreach & Advocacy Action Plan, we

have been laying the groundwork to strengthen our voice and presence both

within and beyond our community.

In recent years, we have explored collaborative opportunities with local

governments and other tribes to share knowledge and resources. We've also

focused on outreach to our tribal members about energy efficiency (EE) and

renewable energy (RE), ensuring that our community is informed and involved in

our energy journey. By facilitating the use of programs offered by utility companies

and the state, we've strived to make energy initiatives accessible to our members,

a process that we are committed to continuing.

To enhance our regulatory authority, we've actively sought representation at

important regulatory tables, such as the Idaho Public Utility Commission (IPUC).

Our ongoing presence at the State House and interventions at the IPUC have

been crucial in advocating for legislation and regulations that align with the

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes' energy goals.

Looking ahead to 2023-2025, we plan to update, implement, and pass a revised

SBT utility code that reflects the latest standards and practices. This will start as

a project in 2024 with the intent to strengthen our regulatory framework and better

facilitate our energy projects. We also aim to build and establish a relationship

with Intermountain Gas, a partnership that could significantly bolster our energy

programs.

Furthermore, we recognize the importance of having up-to-date and accessible

information for our members, which is why we will allocate funding to update our

energy resource website. This will serve as a central hub for information

dissemination and engagement on energy-related matters.

Over the medium and long term, our advocacy efforts will continue to evolve,

ensuring that the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are not just participants but leaders

in shaping the energy landscape to benefit our community and the environment.

Through these strategic outreach and advocacy efforts, we aim to create a

sustainable future that reflects our values and meets the needs of our people.

Education & Workforce Development

We believe in the power of education to

drive our energy future. Initiatives will

include integrating energy education

into school curriculums, developing

workforce

training

programs

in

renewable energy technologies, and

fostering partnerships with educational

institutions to provide training and

career opportunities in the energy

sector.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes have

long recognized that education and

workforce development are vital

components of sustainable energy

progress. Our past and ongoing

initiatives have set the stage for a future where our community is not only informed

about renewable energy technologies but also actively participates in and benefits

from them.

Our engagement with the community began with solar energy workshops, offering

ongoing and upcoming sessions designed to demystify solar technology and

encourage its adoption. Alongside, we've facilitated educational hours in

collaboration with Idaho Power, offering virtual lunchtime programs to bring

energy knowledge directly to our members.

As we look forward to the period from 2023 to 2025, our goals are to integrate

workforce development into our broader energy efforts continuously. We plan to

add classes and training at the high school level focused on solar and wind

energy, aiming to spark interest among young people and illuminate the potential

for careers in these fields. By educating the community regularly on renewable

technologies, we aim to empower individuals to take responsibility for energy

consumption and production within their own homes.

Our medium-term plans are to develop a workforce development training course

in partnership with TERO (Tribal Employment Rights Office) on installing

renewable technologies. By leveraging our Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)

with Idaho State University, we will prioritize programming that supports the

Strategic Energy Plan, fostering an environment that encourages the creation of

classes and certificate programs.

In the long term, our vision is to promote education around solar power and build

a pipeline of students interested in renewable energy, potentially in partnership

with Idaho State University, or any other higher educational institution. This

ongoing effort will contribute to a growing energy workforce, equipped with the

knowledge and skills to support and enhance the Tribes’ energy infrastructure.

Through these educational and workforce initiatives, the Shoshone-Bannock

Tribes are investing in a future where our members are not only well-informed

about energy choices but are also the drivers and leaders of our energy solutions.

Miscellaneous Projects

Acknowledging the diverse needs of our community, we will pursue a variety of

projects such as wildlife conservation studies, recycling initiatives, and the

adoption of low-water landscaping practices to enhance sustainability across the

reservation.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes' approach to energy and environmental

stewardship extends beyond conventional projects. Our multifaceted initiatives

reflect our holistic view of sustainability and community well-being.

Recently, we conducted a study to understand the engagement of bats on the

reservation, recognizing the critical link between animal welfare and wind energy

development. This study is part of our broader effort to responsibly integrate

renewable energy projects while considering their ecological impacts.

As we move into the period from 2023 to 2025, we are setting our sights on

tangible actions that will instill a culture of sustainability among our members. This

includes establishing a Recycling Center at the Solid Waste Department and

extending recycling facilities to all convenience stores. We aim to instill the values

of environmental stewardship in our youth, with an emphasis on education about

recycling within our schools.

In addition to waste management, we plan to introduce low water vegetation for

landscaping to reduce water consumption, and install hand pumps for wells at

district lodges, this would be in conjunction with the solar panels mentioned

earlier. These measures signify our commitment to conserving resources and

promoting sustainable practices.

Our medium-term goals involve the widespread use of renewables in agriculture,

tapping into the synergy between sustainable farming practices and renewable

energy to create a self-sustaining ecosystem within our agricultural sectors.

Looking toward the long term, we envision the use of gabion walls instead of

concrete barriers, a step that not only reduces our environmental footprint but also

enhances the natural aesthetics and functionality of our lands. This approach will

improve community spaces, making them more sustainable and conducive to

communal well-being.

Through these diverse yet interconnected projects, the Shoshone-Bannock

Tribes are weaving sustainability into the very fabric of our community. Each

project, whether focused on recycling, water conservation, or the integration of

renewable energy in agriculture, contributes to a larger vision of a resilient and

environmentally harmonious reservation.

Securing Our Energy Future: A Call to Action

As we reach the conclusion of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes' Strategic Energy

Plan, we reflect on the journey we have embarked upon together. This plan is not

merely a document; it is a declaration of our collective will to embrace a future

where our energy needs are met with respect for the Earth and for the generations

to come.

Our discussions on renewable energy, from solar photovoltaics to wind and

beyond, are not just explorations of technology—they are affirmations of our

commitment to live in balance with nature. The initiatives we have outlined here

are a roadmap towards energy sovereignty, economic prosperity, and

environmental stewardship for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes.

We stand at a pivotal moment, poised to transform these plans into action. We

call upon every member of our community to join us in this endeavor—to learn, to

participate, and to lead. Our vision is clear, and our resolve is strong. Together,

we will build an energy-independent future that honors our heritage and ensures

a thriving, sustainable world for our children and all future generations.

Let us move forward with purpose, harnessing the power of the wind, the warmth

of the sun, and the strength of the water. Let us invest in education and build

partnerships that will illuminate the path ahead. And let us do so with the

knowledge that every step we take is a step towards a brighter, cleaner, and more

resilient tomorrow.

This is our time to shine. Let us step boldly into the future we choose.

Together, We Energize a Sustainable Reservation.

2023 - 2024 Council Members L-R: Gaylen Edmo, Sammy Matsaw Jr., Donna Thompson, Lee Juan

Tyler, Ladd Edmo, Claudia Washakie, and Nancy Eschief Murillo

Information related to internal referenced documents may be requested from the Shoshone

Bannock Energy Resource Program located in the Tribal Department of Energy (TDOE)

building. These include an Energy Resource Assessment, Energy Consumption and

Expenditure, and Community Survey and Results.

ENERGY RESOURCE PROGRAM, P.O. BOX 306, FORT HALL, ID 83203 | https://www.sbtribes.com/energy/

SHOSHONE-BANNOCK TRIBES, P.O. BOX 306, FORT HALL, ID 83203 | https://www.sbtribes.com/