Empowering Indigenous Communities in a Sustainable Energy Transition: Microgrids for Enhanced Resilience
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Empowering Indigenous Communities in a Sustainable Energy Transition: Microgrids for Enhanced Resilience
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Indigenous communities face disproportionate energy challenges, including high costs and limited access to reliable power, which exacerbate existing socioeconomic disparities. For the Spokane Tribe of Indians, these challenges are particularly acute, with energy usage predominantly centered on heating during harsh winters. Frequent power outages further strain community resilience, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable and reliable energy solutions. Microgrids present a transformative opportunity to address these issues. As localized energy systems, microgrids operate independently or alongside traditional grids, offering enhanced reliability, reduced emissions, and increased community control over energy resources.
This thesis examines the intersection of energy justice, microgrid technology, and Indigenous self-determination, focusing on the Spokane Tribe’s Children of the Sun microgrid project. This study explores how microgrids can enhance resilience and energy sovereignty in Indigenous communities by analyzing historical contexts, regulatory frameworks, and community-led energy strategies. By employing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including survey data and policy analysis, this study provides actionable insights into the benefits and challenges of microgrid implementation. It highlights the potential of microgrids not only as technical solutions but also as catalysts for addressing intergenerational energy disparities and promoting equity. Ultimately, this research contributes to broader discussions on energy justice and sustainable development, offering a framework for replicable and culturally sensitive energy strategies in Indigenous and other overburdened communities.
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December 2024
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Joshua Dennis
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Dennis, Joshua_MES Thesis_December2024
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