2026 GRC Panel - Advancing Geothermal Projects with Tribal Nations: Finance, Partnership, and Indigenous Leadership
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Monday, September 21
DID YOU KNOW?
Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) and Advanced Geothermal Systems (AGS) have the potential to harness geothermal energies in regions where Conventional Hydrothermal Systems (CHS) would be impossible.
Monday, September 21
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Session 1A: Panel - Advancing Geothermal Projects with Tribal Nations: Finance, Partnership, and Indigenous Leadership
This session brings together legal, finance, federal, industry, and Indigenous perspectives to explore what it takes to advance geothermal projects with Tribal Nations. The discussion will move from tax and financing opportunities to practical considerations for project development, partnership, and federal support. The session will also highlight Māori experience with geothermal ownership, governance, industry partnership, and long-term community value in Aotearoa New Zealand, offering another perspective on Indigenous participation in geothermal development.
1. Tax, Finance, and New Development Opportunities
- Moderator: Jessica Eagle-Bluestone
- Wendolyn Holland, Holland Consulting
- Raymond “Studie” RedCorn, DOE Office of Indian Energy
- Elizabeth Bellis Wolfe, US DOE EDF
2. Advancing Geothermal Projects with Tribal Nations
- Moderator: Leighton Gall
- Alissa Sanchez, Director of Business Development, Ormat
- Amanda Toerdal, Kawerak
- Raymond “Studie” RedCorn, DOE Office of Indian Energy
3. Indigenous Geothermal Ownership and Leadership in Aotearoa New Zealand
- Moderator: Wendolyn Holland, Holland Consulting
- Aroha Campbell, Tauhara North No. 2 Trust
- Wikitoria Hepi-Te Huia, Tauhara North No. 2 Trust
- Mana Newton, Tauhara North No. 2 Trust