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The Nuclear Energy Tribal Working Group (NETWG) is a chartered working group focused on engaging tribal nations interested in the broad spectrum of Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear energy activities. NETWG explores topics such as nuclear research and development, advanced nuclear technologies, stakeholder outreach, STEM education, emergency response and planning activities, management, storage, disposal, and transportation of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste, and potential economic business opportunities.

About NETWG

NETWG was established in December 2014 to bring officials from the Office of Nuclear Energy and tribal leaders together to collaborate and gain insight into tribal experiences representing obstacles and opportunities in nuclear energy and related infrastructure development in Indian Country.

The mission of NETWG is to engage federally recognized tribal governments and their designated representatives in DOE's Office of Nuclear Energy activities. NETWG serves as a conduit to foster communication, education of all generations, and promote active involvement of tribal governments. NETWG is dedicated to assisting in developing and maintaining the government-to-government relationship between DOE and Indian tribes, consistent with DOE’s American Indian policy.

NETWG is hosted, managed, and supported as a program initiative in the Office of Nuclear Energy. Staff support to NETWG is provided by the National Conference of State Legislatures through a cooperative agreement with DOE.

Nuclear Energy Tribal Working Group infographic

Learn More

To find out more about NETWG, read the charter or review the list of participating tribes.

Goals and Objectives

NETWG exchanges information, guidance and recommendations on nuclear energy topic areas, including but not limited to:

  1. Expanded educational opportunities and scholarships
  2. Small modular reactors or other emerging technologies
  3. Transportation planning, emergency response, training, and related funding allocations
  4. Management, storage, disposal, and transportation of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste
  5. Nuclear research and development
  6. Stakeholder outreach
  7. Economic business opportunities
  8. Cultural resource management
  9. Other related topics under the authority of DOE/Office of Nuclear Energy that may arise