Ormat Technologies is deepening Indigenous engagement in geothermal projects across the U.S., emphasising early dialogue, cultural respect, and shared opportunity.
How Ormat approaches tribal engagement in geothermal development
For Alissa Sanchez, Director of Business Development at Ormat Technologies, geothermal development is more than a technical endeavour. It is a dialogue. One that starts early, builds trust, and recognises Indigenous communities as sovereign partners.
Speaking at the 2025 Indigenous Geothermal Symposium in Reno, Nevada, Sanchez reflected on the company's approach: "We don't just seek acceptance of our projects, we look for mutual value, understanding, and long-term collaboration."
Ormat, a leading geothermal developer and operator, has long embedded stakeholder engagement into its project lifecycle. In tribal areas, this requires a distinct approach.
Listening, not just informing
"Each tribal nation is unique," says Sanchez. "We do our homework, we listen, and we tailor our communication to the specific governance and cultural protocols of the community."
This means engaging not just tribal councils, but also local schools, community organisations, and youth groups. Ormat's outreach includes everything from food drives to school programs, archaeological survey participation, and internships. Many of these are coordinated with agencies like the Bureau of Land Management.
In Nevada alone, Ormat's projects intersect with territories of 28 federally recognised tribes. This creates both opportunity and complexity.
"Mining has historically dominated this region, and geothermal is still misunderstood in some places," explains Sanchez. "We have to counter assumptions, explain the science, and most importantly, build relationships that go beyond the life of a project."
Global lessons from Indigenous leadership
The Indigenous Geothermal Symposium served as a platform to compare experiences across borders. Presentations from the Maori of New Zealand and Indigenous representatives from Taiwan showed how geothermal development can align with cultural values and deliver sovereignty-based outcomes.
For example, the Maori are not only engaged stakeholders. They are owners and operators of geothermal assets, framing their role around kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and rangatiratanga (self-determination). These models offer powerful examples for Indigenous nations worldwide.
Sanchez sees this global dialogue as essential. "There's a shift happening. Indigenous communities are not just being consulted, they're leading, investing, and defining what responsible development looks like."
From community relations to co-creation
At the core of Ormat's strategy is continuity. Engagement does not end when permits are secured. "We stay involved. Our facilities are open for community tours, and many of our employees come from the local areas we operate in. They help keep us grounded in what matters."
Ormat also chairs the tribal working group at the Geothermal Rising association, with Sanchez playing a key role in shaping broader industry awareness and standards.
She is quick to acknowledge that the work is ongoing. "We're learning every day. From our partners, from other developers, and from Indigenous leaders who are generously sharing their knowledge and expectations."
