Advancing Energy Sovereignty and Economic Prosperity for First Nations through Green Energy Statecraft

Abstract

A new approach to energy transition governance is necessary, one that is inclusive of First Nations on whose land the energy transition will occur. In this short position paper, we elaborate upon the concept of green energy statecraft (GES), a new approach to energy transition governance that, amongst other ambitious goals, partners with First Nations in ways that benefit these communities as well as driving energy transition. We show how Australia might improve its energy transition through adopting GES and creating the conditions for First Nations energy justice. In exhibiting how this occurs, we examine generative examples of First Nations communities benefiting from the approach of GES in the United States, Canada, and Aotearoa New Zealand. Indigenous ownership of renewable energy industries is offered as an optimal outcome of GES.

Keywords

• energy
• Indigenous
• renewable
• statecraft
• green
• Australia