Saxon Metzger and his brother, Ayda Donne, are bridging their Indigenous heritage with their commitment to sustainable energy, reflecting lessons from their family’s tragic past during the Osage Reign of Terror. They have founded Eighth Generation Consulting to ensure that clean energy projects, especially solar, do not replicate the neglect and disinvestment that fossil fuel industries imposed on their communities. Their work aims to provide training and project management for solar decommissioning, fostering responsible practices that benefit tribal nations.
Similar initiatives have been undertaken by other Indigenous groups, though often focusing more on deployment rather than decommissioning. For instance, various tribes have successfully launched renewable energy projects but have rarely emphasized the end-of-life management of such installations. Metzger and Donne’s focus on decommissioning makes their approach unique. Historically, tribes have faced challenges with abandoned projects that failed to consider long-term impacts.
Connecting with Heritage
Growing up in Southern California, Saxon Metzger and Ayda Donne were initially disconnected from their Indigenous roots in Oklahoma. Their great-grandmother’s traumatic experiences during the Osage Reign of Terror influenced their understanding of fossil fuel exploitation. The brothers’ exploration of their heritage led them to establish Eighth Generation Consulting, aiming to prevent clean energy projects from causing similar harm. They are supported by Osage Nation Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear and have received significant funding and mentorship from entities like the U.S. Department of Energy.
Addressing Industry Challenges
While Saxon Metzger’s career in solar energy has included roles in non-profits and companies focusing on solar installation, his work now emphasizes the need for comprehensive decommissioning plans. He has noted that estimates for decommissioning costs are often unrealistically low, which can be beneficial short-term but problematic long-term. Metzger’s approach includes training programs for tribal members to manage decommissioning projects effectively, ensuring the community is prepared for future challenges.
In the broader context of solar energy, responsible decommissioning remains crucial. Experts agree that as the industry expands, it must address potential environmental impacts, including proper disposal of materials and maintaining trust with landowners. State laws and policies play a critical role in mitigating these risks by requiring financial assurances from developers. This ensures that decommissioning costs are not underestimated, preventing future liabilities for communities.
Saxon Metzger and Ayda Donne’s work demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to energy justice. By focusing on responsible decommissioning, they aim to make clean energy projects truly sustainable. Their efforts highlight the importance of long-term planning and community involvement in addressing the legacy of fossil fuels and ensuring a more secure future for the Osage Nation and other tribal communities.
