The Government of Canada is supporting Indigenous communities and businesses in Saskatchewan to carry out projects that deliver clean and affordable energy. These projects are critical to building long-term prosperity, energy security and affordability, while advancing Canada's ambitious climate goals.
Today, when speaking at the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources, announced investments totalling over $7 million for four projects. The funding is provided through the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways (SREPs) program and will enhance the understanding of energy usesupport renewable energy development and deployment in partnership with Indigenous
These projects include:
● $4,300,000 for Pisim Energy Limited Partnership to deploy two one-megawatt bi-facial solar arrays located in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. The project will create a new revenue source from renewable energy for Ochapowace Nation, while creating employment opportunities during construction and operations.
● $2,310,563 for Lac La Ronge Indian Band to hire and train community energy coordinators in six Indigenous communities while providing local training, workshops and community engagement to increase understanding of energy efficiency and renewable energy opportunities. The project will also create community energy plans to improve energy efficiency, reduce GHG emissions and implement local energy solutions in the communities.
● $344,565 for Red Dog Holdings Limited Partnership, the economic development arm of Star Blanket Cree Nation, to build capacity for the implementation of renewable energy projects in their community by training and employing an energy project coordinator, developing a community energy plan, and providing inclusive community engagement and education initiatives, including energy education and training for staff and leadership, Elders and youth.
● $141,250 for Saskatchewan Power Corporation to build capacity with a comprehensive microgrid feasibility study for the northern settlement of Descharme Lake, that would replace the electric utility interconnection with an efficient, clean and smart microgrid that will improve grid reliability for the community.
These investments demonstrate the Government of Canada's ongoing commitment to support projects that move toward a clean and sustainable electricity grid while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, advancing economic reconciliation and fighting climate change.
