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Ignoring Indigenous Rights is Making the Green Transition More Expensive

Summary

Anita Hofschneider highlights the increasing costs and delays faced by renewable energy projects that fail to recognize Indigenous rights. The Osage Nation's recent legal victory against Enel Green Power, resulting in a $260 million estimate to remove wind turbines trespassing on Native land, is cited as an example. The article underscores a shifting trend where developers can no longer ignore Indigenous rights with impunity, affecting the clean energy transition. The financial risks associated with not obtaining the support of tribal communities are discussed, emphasizing the need for companies to engage in meaningful consultation and respect Indigenous sovereignty to avoid costly legal battles and project delays. The piece also explores global Indigenous rights enforcement and the importance of acknowledging Indigenous rights in the planning process of renewable energy projects.

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