Today, the Innu communities of Ekuanitshit, Essipit, Pessamit, the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation, Pakua Shipi, Uashat mak Mani-utenam, Matimekush-Lac John, Nutashkuan, and Unamen Shipu, under the umbrella of the Société en commandite Apuiat (S.E.C. Apuiat) in collaboration with Boralex and with the contribution of Indigenous Services Canada, announce the development of a major 200-MW wind farm. The Apuiat project will be located on the public land of the traditional territory (Nitassinan) of the Uashat mak Mani-utenam First Nation.
This large wind farm project will create a long-term clean energy source and generate sustainable economic and social benefits for Innu communities. In addition, nearly 300 jobs will become available during the construction phase, along with approximately 10 permanent jobs for the wind farm's operations.
Thanks to Indigenous Services Canada's Community Opportunity Readiness Program (CORP), S.E.C. Apuiat received a contribution of $3 million to support its financial involvement in the wind farm project. The Innu communities and Boralex each hold 50% of the votes on the Apuiat Wind Farm's Board of Directors.
Today's announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to supporting Indigenous communities in their economic prosperity.
