Executive Summary

The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe (SRST) responded to the threat of the Dakota Access Pipeline with the #noDAPL movement in 2016 to defend and protect its natural resources. The democratically elected leadership of Standing Rock created the SAGE Development Authority (SAGE) in 2019 as a Section 17 Corporation to institutionalize the Tribe’s involvement in renewable energy projects. One of SAGE’s projects is a 235-megawatt (MW) Anpetu Wi (Morning Light) Wind Farm. Anpetu Wi will have a transformative impact on the community and generate carbon-free electricity in a rural, remote, disadvantaged, and historically underserved region. When built, Anpetu Wi will be the first wind farm in the U.S. with meaningful Tribal ownership. Anpetu Wi is projected to begin construction in 2026; first-year net revenues are estimated at $21 MM, making Anpetu Wi the single largest revenue source for Standing Rock. Revenues will be reinvested into the community for additional renewable energy projects and Tribal services such as a health center, museum, and credit union. SAGE also coordinates an inter-tribal electric vehicle charging network to alleviate costly transportation burdens in the region. SAGE is a 100% Native-led organization with a women-led board of directors. SAGE leadership live and work in the community they serve. The organization embraces its Lakota/Dakota roots in balance and Natural Law, which demands respect for the earth and for the physical and spiritual existence of all things. SAGE exists to ensure energy independence, protect the environment, and promote economic growth in the region for Standing Rock.

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