With the assistance of a federal grant, the Tribe, located in southeastern Connecticut, will be able to convert its current gas-powered fleet to electric or hybrid vehicles. Additionally, they will also encourage their residents to make the switch to more environmentally-friendly transportation options.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation in southeastern Connecticut is set to make significant strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to green energy, thanks to a generous federal award of over $1.5 million.
The tribe has decided to replace its current government fleet of gasoline cars with electric, hybrid, or a combination of both. Additionally, they will install electric vehicle charging stations at government buildings. In an effort to encourage residents to switch from gas-powered cars to electric or hybrid vehicles, the tribe will offer rebates of up to $7,500.
The EPA estimates that the proposed projects would collectively decrease greenhouse gas pollution by more than seven million metric tons of carbon dioxide by 2050, according to selected tribes or territories. This reduction is equivalent to the annual carbon dioxide emissions from the use of electricity by about 1.4 million homes.
Eleazer expressed his excitement when the EPA granted funding to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation through its Tribes and Territories competition. Although the tribe initially applied unsuccessfully, Eleazer was thrilled with the positive outcome.
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal expressed his enthusiasm over the $1.5 million federal funding allocated to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe. He emphasized the significant impact this funding will have on the Tribe’s clean energy infrastructure. Senator Blumenthal also highlighted the importance of supporting initiatives that make electric vehicles more accessible to address the pressing issue of greenhouse gas emissions in Connecticut, where transportation is the primary contributor.
According to him, the utilization of the grant money, including the rebate program, will rely on the willingness and ability of the residents to switch to electric vehicles. He expects that it may take a couple of years for residents to change their habits, but it’s worth mentioning that the grant is valid for a duration of five years.
Eleazer intends to incorporate protective measures to ensure the responsible utilization of all funds. This includes regularly assessing the remaining amount of money after four years and considering alternative spending options as necessary.
Funding will also support an educational campaign emphasizing the significance of reducing pollution and providing tangible ways for tribe members to implement this. Eleazer highlighted that the program’s objective is to demonstrate the practicality of electric vehicles for everyone, including those who may be unfamiliar with them.
Rodney Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, expressed his gratitude for the grant, stating that the tribe feels honored to receive it. He also mentioned their excitement about collaborating with the EPA and appreciated the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing pollution concerns not only in Indian country but also beyond.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribe is an officially recognized tribal government that holds sovereignty, self-determination, and complete authority over the 1635-acre Mashantucket Western Pequot Indian Reservation.
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