A proposed wind energy project on indigenous lands near Prince Rupert has gotten a boost from the federal government, receiving $2 million in funding from the federal government.
This follows a federal announcement made by Federal Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson on Jun. 23, where he stated that more than $16 million in federal investments will be made for five clean energy projects in British Columbia, Yukon and the Northwest Territories under the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program.
Among the recipients was an investment of $2 million into the Metlakatla Development Corporation’s Mount Hays Wind Project.
The funds will be used for feasibility work for a proposed 40 megawatt wind farm near Prince Rupert which, once complete, would be 100 per cent First Nation-owned and would help meet growing energy demands in the area.
“When it comes to electricity, Canada starts from a place of strength — but it’s time to build on that so we have a strong, affordable, sovereign grid for years to come,” said Hodgson.
He added that projects receiving funding demonstrate the opportunities available in northern communities.
“Northern electricity grids and generation present some challenges, but mostly enormous opportunity — as evidenced by today’s investments. Working alongside provinces, territories, Indigenous Peoples and industry, we will keep reliability high and bills low as we expand clean, reliable, affordable power for all Canadians.”
According to the federal government, investments such as the Mount Hays project will help improve energy security, reduce emissions, create jobs, and support Indigenous ownership in the energy sector.
Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty said the projects are aimed at addressing the high energy prices in northern and remote regions.
“Communities across the Northwest Territories and the North are paying far too much for energy,” said Alty. “These investments will cut costs, replace polluting diesel, and deliver reliable power Northerners can count on – all while advancing reconciliation through meaningful Indigenous ownership and leadership.”
She added that partnerships with Indigenous communities are central to the government’s energy plans.
“In true partnership with local communities, our government is creating good jobs and new economic opportunities as we build a safer, more sustainable energy future for Canada.”
Metlakatla Mount Hays Wind Project is among the two Indigenous-led projects in British Columbia receiving funds from the most recent set of investments from the Canadian government. The other one is Helhts’i Power Project in Vanderhoof, which got $1.5 million towards development of a planned 200 megawatt wind farm.
According to the federal government, the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program has a budget of $4.5 billion and supports projects aimed at increasing production of clean electricity, modernizing power grids, and energy storage systems in Canada.
