The Government of Canada invests in bringing clean, safe and reliable electricity to Pikangikum First Nation in northwestern Ontario

THUNDER BAY, ON – Connecting Pikangikum First Nation to Ontario’s power grid will provide clean energy while making an important contribution to the health and safety of community members and boosting the First Nation’s economic development opportunities.

Today, Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, announced up to $60.2 million in funding for Wataynikaneyap Power to build a 117-kilometre power line with associated infrastructure from Red Lake into the local distribution system at Pikangikum First Nation.

“Today’s announcement is a concrete example of First Nation, federal and provincial partners making real progress on the issues that will lead the way to better health and socio economic outcomes. Opening the door for better housing and future economic development will change the quality of life for the Pikangikum First Nation and bring hope to their community,” said Bennett.

Construction on the power line will begin in fall 2017. Completion is expected in fall 2018. Once complete, Pikangikum will be connected to the Ontario provincial electrical grid and will receive clean, safe and reliable power.

This project is the result of long-term collaboration with the Government of Ontario to advance electrification of First Nation communities in Northern Ontario. It is a significant first step in eliminating Pikangikum’s dependence on diesel fuel by supporting a transition to more sustainable energy solutions.

Connecting remote First Nations in Northwestern Ontario to the provincial electricity grid would save six megatons of greenhouse gas emissions over the next 40 years.  In many communities, diesel generators are at capacity, limiting the potential to accommodate growing populations, businesses and other necessary infrastructure.

Quick Facts

• Pikangikum First Nation currently uses a diesel generating station to supply electricity. This station is operated by Pikangikum as an Independent Power Authority. It is about 38 years old and has long surpassed its life expectancy as a critical infrastructure asset.
• Wataynikaneyap Power is a licenced transmission company, equally owned by 22 First Nation Communities (51%), who partnered with an experienced industry leader, Fortis (49%), with the goal of connecting 17 of its signatories, including Pikangikum First Nation, to the provincial grid in northwestern Ontario.

SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada