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As tribes continue expanding energy sovereignty and investing in power infrastructure, understanding energy markets has become increasingly critical. Decisions made today about grid integration and power purchase agreements will shape the cost, reliability, and sustainability of tribal power supplies for generations.
Mike Bedley, Native American Utility Company | APEX Power Services CorporationLittle River Holdings LLC, the economic development arm of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in western Michigan, created Native American Utility Company (NAUC), a 100% tribal utility company, to help empower other tribal nations. As technical specialist for NAUC, Mike Bedley brings over 35 years of power sector experience to help tribes navigate the process of establishing their own utilities. He advises industrial customers, financial institutions, and renewable energy developers on commodity risk management, market forecasting, power plant valuation, and energy infrastructure.
In this interview, Bedley shares insight on key energy issues facing tribal nations and explains how NAUC is helping Native American tribes achieve energy independence and economic sovereignty.
This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
What foundational knowledge about energy markets should tribal leaders have before entering long-term utility or infrastructure agreements?
Energy markets are complex and volatile. When tribes consider entering long-term power purchase agreements or investing in generation, it's important they understand how market prices are formed, what drives volatility, and the risks associated with fixed versus variable pricing. Without that foundation, they may lock into a price or structure that seems safe but ultimately costs more or limits future flexibility.
How is NAUC helping tribes assert their sovereignty in the energy sector?
By leveraging their sovereign status, tribal utilities can purchase wholesale power directly, bypassing state surcharges and non-utility fees that typically inflate energy costs. This approach can deliver immediate cost savings of 10-20% on electricity bills. Beyond that, tribal utilities create infrastructure for additional economic development opportunities, including data centers that can generate substantial revenue through land leases, payment in lieu of taxes, and royalties on power consumption.
What common risks do you see in energy deals that tribal entities should be aware of?
One of the biggest risks is entering into a long-term fixed-price agreement without understanding the underlying market exposure. We've seen cases where entities lock in pricing thinking it will protect them from future volatility, only to find that they're paying far above market rates when prices drop. Another is not accounting for transmission congestion or capacity costs, which can materially affect delivered prices. These risks can be mitigated, but only if they're understood up front.
How does transmission congestion specifically impact tribes trying to buy or sell energy?
Transmission congestion occurs when there's not enough capacity on the power grid to deliver energy from where it's generated to where it's needed. That creates price separation between regions. A tribe might generate power at a competitive cost, but if there's congestion on the line, they might not be able to sell it at a profit or even deliver it at all. This is especially relevant for rural or remote areas where transmission infrastructure is limited.
What should tribal nations consider when evaluating investments in their own generation facilities?
Do a full financial and operational assessment before making a commitment. That includes analyzing capital costs, ongoing O&M, market pricing scenarios, and any regulatory or interconnection requirements. Also, tribes need to consider the scalability of the project and whether it aligns with long-term energy needs and economic goals. Many projects look good on paper but fail when the market shifts or usage patterns change.
How can tribes ensure they're receiving fair terms from utilities or energy developers?
Bring in third-party experts who don't have a stake in the project. Too often, tribes rely on developers or utilities to provide the analysis and pricing structure, but those parties have their own interests. Independent advisors can evaluate the financial terms, project assumptions, and market forecasts to ensure the deal is in the tribe's best interest. That due diligence is essential, especially for long-term agreements.
How are current regulatory trends like decarbonization affecting tribal energy opportunities?
They're creating both opportunities and risks. Decarbonization is leading to more incentives and funding for renewable projects, which can benefit tribes. But it's also creating uncertainty in energy markets and changing how power is priced and dispatched. Grid modernization, like battery storage or demand response, offers new ways to participate in the market—but these technologies also require technical expertise and ongoing management. Tribes need to stay informed and evaluate these changes through a strategic lens.
What final advice would you give tribal leaders pursuing energy sovereignty through entities like NAUC?
Energy sovereignty is a powerful goal, but it comes with responsibility. The stakes are high, especially with large infrastructure projects or multi-year agreements. The key is to build a knowledge base, ask hard questions, and surround yourself with experienced advisors who understand both the technical and economic sides of the business. With that foundation, tribes can make informed choices that support their long-term interests and economic development goals.
Mike Bedley is managing partner and founder of APEX Power Services Corporation who brings 40 years of broad experience in the energy industry to his work with Little River Holdings’ tribally owned Native American Utility Company. He is recognized as an expert in the sector acting as an on-air TV/radio resource for The Associated Press, Nightly Business Report, CNN, national trade publications, and several newspapers including the USA Today. To reach Bedley, email him at or call him at 954-494-2739.