Washington’s Department of Commerce has canceled a $1.37 million conditional grant for a tidal energy project in Puget Sound after objections from several tribal nations. The project, managed by Aquantis, a subsidiary of Dehlsen Associates, planned to test a marine turbine for three months in the Similk and Skagit Bay area near the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community. The turbine’s path would have affected treaty-protected waterways used by at least 10 Salish Sea-area tribes, including the Makah and Lummi Nation. 

The Department of Commerce cited concerns about potential harm to salmon and the wider ecosystem as key reasons for the withdrawal. The Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission emphasized that the region’s waterways are critical migration routes for fish returning from the ocean, impacting nearly all tribal nations in Washington State. While the project sought to advance clean energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, tribal leaders highlighted risks to their treaty-protected fishing rights and cultural heritage.

Swinomish Tribal Community Chairman Steve Edwards stated: “Swinomish supports clean energy projects, but not at the expense of our Treaty fishing access, Salish Sea ecosystem health or our cultural lifeways.” Edwards contacted Commerce leadership, drawing comparisons to a prior proposal abandoned due to similar environmental issues. The objections prompted an internal review by the department.

Energy Division Assistant Director Jennifer Grove and Tribal Relations Director Michelle Gladstone-Wade conducted the review, recommending the grant’s cancellation. They pointed to potential threats to treaty rights, cultural sites, and marine ecosystems. Commerce Director Joe Nguy?n approved the recommendation, stating: “Commerce is committed to doing the right thing, even when it means changing course.” The decision reflects a focus on balancing energy goals with tribal and environmental priorities.

The move follows calls for the Department of Commerce to handle tribal consultations directly, as mandated by Executive Order 21-02, rather than relying on contractors. The funds originally allocated for the tidal project will now be redirected through the Clean Energy Fund grant program. This shift aims to support alternative initiatives that align with both sustainability and community interests.

The cancellation underscores the challenges of developing renewable energy in areas tied to tribal resources. The Puget Sound project’s withdrawal highlights the importance of addressing ecological and cultural concerns alongside clean energy ambitions in Washington State.