16 remote First Nations communities to ditch diesel and hook into Ontario power
Ontario's energy minister observed the official inking of a new partnership Thursday morning.
Bob Chiarelli was at the signing of a partnership agreement between Wataynikaneyap Power — a transmission company owned by 20 First Nations — and two other companies: FortisOntario and Renewable Energy Systems Canada.
The partnership will build and operate a line from Ignace to Pickle Lake to connect 16 communities to the provincial power grid. Those communities are currently powered by diesel generation.
"It's lead by First Nations. The partnership has been established by the First Nations. They have been working with our government in order to meet all the regulatory requirements," Chiarelli told CBC News.
"It's really an impressive experience for the province of Ontario."
He added that the new transmission line from Ignace to Pickle Lake will also supply northwestern Ontario.
"But most importantly, for the first time, this will enable transmission to go into 21 First Nation remote communities."
Chair of Wataynikaneyap Power said their people's vision is to own, control and benefit from major infrastructure development in their homelands.
"Through this partnership, we are changing the landscape of how First Nations can do business into the future," Margaret Kenequanash said.
"Together we have reached a major milestone towards getting our communities off diesel generation, and improving the socio-economic situation for everyone's benefit."
As for the funding for the project, Kenequanash said a funding arrangement needs be negotiated with both levels of government.
"I think it would be a miss for the federal government not to come on side to establish that federal and provincial funding arrangement that's required. Because currently, they're spending $98 million a year on diesel generator," Kenequanash added.
Kenequanash said the goal is to have all the communities hooked up by 2023.
There are 25 remote First Nation communities in Northwestern Ontario that currently rely on diesel power, the province stated in news release.