Energy Development
Generation Assets Your Tribe Owns
Once your tribal utility is established, the next opportunity is developing generation assets—power production facilities your tribe owns and controls. These assets serve your community's energy needs while creating revenue through power sales to outside buyers.
SGE evaluates feasibility, supports project development, and connects you with the right engineering and construction partners. We're technology-agnostic—the right solution depends on your location, resources, and economics.
Generation Options
Natural Gas
For many tribal utilities, natural gas generation offers the most practical path to reliable, dispatchable power. Gas plants can be sized to match loads, respond quickly to demand changes, and operate continuously regardless of weather. Current federal tax credits for clean energy don't exclude gas—combined heat and power (CHP) systems and high-efficiency plants can still access incentives.
When it makes sense: Communities needing firm, reliable baseload power; areas with natural gas infrastructure access; situations where 24/7 availability is critical.
Solar
We evaluate each project based on location, current incentive availability, and realistic payback timelines. Solar economics vary significantly by geography and available incentives.
When it makes sense: High-insolation areas (Southwest, Southern Plains); projects that can utilize direct pay provisions for tax credits; situations where solar pairs well with battery storage.
Geothermal
Where geology allows, geothermal provides exceptional long-term value—baseload power that runs 24/7 with minimal fuel costs. Upfront development costs are higher than other technologies, but operating costs are among the lowest in the industry. Federal production tax credits and investment tax credits apply to geothermal projects.
When it makes sense: Locations with confirmed geothermal resources; tribes seeking long-term, stable generation with minimal ongoing fuel expense.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Battery storage enhances grid reliability, captures value from time-of-use rate differences, and enables participation in ancillary services markets. BESS can be paired with renewable generation or operated standalone to arbitrage wholesale power prices. Federal investment tax credits currently apply to standalone storage projects.
When it makes sense: Communities with variable renewable generation; areas with significant peak/off-peak rate differences; tribal utilities seeking grid services revenue.
How SGE Supports Energy Development
We're not an EPC (engineering, procurement, construction) company — we're your guide through the development process.
Feasibility Studies
Evaluating technical viability, resource availability, interconnection requirements, and financial projections.
Project Development
Site assessment, permitting support, power purchase agreement structuring, and offtake negotiations.
Partner Selection
Build and own generation assets—solar, gas, geothermal, battery storage—that serve your community and generate revenue through power sales to outside buyers.
Financing Navigation
Identifying grants, tax credit monetization strategies, and financing structures that minimize upfront capital requirements.
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