Tribes key in renewable energy development

Mar 23, 2010 - The Associated Press

A new report focuses on American Indian tribes as part of a solution to combat climate change, and create jobs and revenue through renewable energy development.

The National Wildlife Federation released the report Tuesday.

Tribal lands make up almost 5 percent of the United States and hold around 10 percent of the country's renewable energy resources.

The report cited the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in estimating that solar energy on tribal lands alone has the potential to generate 4.5 times the total energy generated in the U.S. in 2004.

The report notes some challenges tribes face in renewable energy development in that they do not benefit from renewable energy tax credits or loan guarantees that would attract investors.