Decolonisation from deep down: Sara Chitsaz, Taylor Behn-Tsakoza, John R. Parkins, ‘Indigenous-Led Energy Transition: Exploring the Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal Project as a Path to Reconciliation’, in Bram Noble, Greg Poelzer, Gwen Holdmann, Saurabh Biswas, Diane Hirshberg (eds), Routledge Handbook of Arctic Energy Transition, Routledge, 2026 | settler colonial studies blog

Decolonisation from deep down: Sara Chitsaz, Taylor Behn-Tsakoza, John R. Parkins, ‘Indigenous-Led Energy Transition: Exploring the Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal Project as a Path to Reconciliation’, in Bram Noble, Greg Poelzer, Gwen Holdmann, Saurabh Biswas, Diane Hirshberg (eds), Routledge Handbook of Arctic Energy Transition, Routledge, 2026

15May26

Abstract: Indigenous renewable energy presents a unique opportunity to challenge and rectify the historical legacies of settler colonialism and the exploitation faced by Indigenous communities in the context of resource extraction. This study focuses on the Tu Deh-Kah (TDK) geothermal project in Northeast British Columbia, Canada, which stands as an Indigenous renewable energy venture fully owned by the Fort Nelson First Nation. The objective of this research is to identify specific aspects of the TDK project that contribute to reconciliation efforts. Additionally, we employ the concept of settler-colonialism to comprehend and analyze community members’ perspectives regarding the project. Findings from an online survey of 45 community members and six follow-up interviews reveal a range of aspirations for the project, such as community vibrancy and capacity building. However, concerns include the project’s feasibility and the equitable distribution of benefits. Notably, we distinguish between practical elements of community ownership and community engagement within the project.

Filed under: Uncategorized | Closed