Application of a Sustainability Assessment for (Bio)electricity Options: Multi-Criteria Analysis in a Traditional Value System Framework for an Iroquois Nation

Thomas Buchholz, Neil Patterson, Timothy A. Volk, Valerie A. Luzadis

Availability of energy is an important aspect to the Tuscarora Nation. Recently, the Tuscarora engaged in analyzing the electricity options the nation has including a business as usual (importing electricity from the NY power mix), as well as wind, solar and biomass derived electricity from within the Nation’s land. Biophysical assessments were done by an extensive use of GIS data, as well as wind speed and solar radiation maps. Biomass electricity options considered included dedicated energy crops (switchgrass, willow shrubs), food crops (soy), and forest derived biomass. Societal and economic factors were considered in this biophysical assessment and included current agricultural land requirements to satisfy demand for food production as well as the costs of each option. However, the question remained in what of these electricity options would suit the Tuscarora best. We engaged the larger Tuscarora community in examining those electricity options based on traditional Haudenosaunee values. The strong traditional value base of the Tuscarora Nation as well as its unique societal structure with a high emphasis on consensus decisions demands special tools to enable decisions in energy issues known for their complexity. This research investigated the use of Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) as a tool to assist the Nation in applying their philosophy to structuring their decision process on sources for home electricity and enable them to make informed choices. Embedded in a workshop setting and three survey rounds, the methodology and results were sourced in an adaptive and participatory manner. Experiences throughout the MCA application process supported the previously held notion of a strong rejection of quantification of values. At the same time, the MCA framework proofed to be useful in this traditional knowledge system and decision framework. The MCA process enabled focused discussion and raised points of concern and vagueness. The outcomes suggested a strong preference for renewable sources sourced from within the nation based on traditional values. Results enable the Nation to plan the next steps for an electricity future in accordance with their value base.

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