Navajo Nation gains ground in energy sovereignty as feds deny hydro project permits

Federal authorities have denied permits for hydroelectric projects on Navajo land, marking a significant step in recognizing tribal sovereignty in energy projects.

Noel Lyn Smith and Wyatt Myskow report for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's new policy requires tribal consent for energy projects on tribal lands, leading to the denial of permits for hydroelectric projects on Navajo Nation territory.
• The Navajo Nation, along with environmental groups, opposed these projects due to concerns about water usage and impacts on cultural sites and endangered species.
• This decision reflects a growing awareness of the environmental and cultural impacts of hydropower, as well as the importance of tribal consultation in energy development.

Key quote:

“Water scarcity is a simple fact of our region … their failure to see that caused them to run headlong into the problem of aridity.”

— Taylor McKinnon, the Southwest director for the Center for Biological Diversity

Why this matters:

This development speaks to inclusive decision-making processes that respect both the environment and the rights of Indigenous communities.

LISTEN: What would a just energy transition look like for US tribes?