The provincial government is increasing a funding envelope for energy projects in Indigenous communities, all part of an effort, they said, to reduce electricity costs.
Part of the province’s Indigenous Energy Support Programs, the fund will receive a $5 million increase, bringing the total annual investment to $15 million.
There will be 93 projects from across 58 Indigenous communities that will receive funding from the programs in 2023, including: $69,148 for Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation’s workshops and training renewable energy and energy conservation for community members; $97,300 for M'Chigeeng First Nation to host community energy engagements for youth and community members, in addition to training and travel costs for their “Community Energy Champion” who will “plan, implement and evaluate energy-related projects and priorities”; and
$200,000 to support Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory’s installation of two level 2 and two level 3 electric vehicle charging stations alongside a battery backup system at the community recreational complex.
“Through initiatives like the Indigenous Energy Support Programs, our government is supporting Indigenous communities with capacity building, planning, infrastructure development, as well as valuable skills development opportunities,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs. “Establishing strong and lasting partnerships with Indigenous communities is fundamental to advancing meaningful reconciliation and creating long-term economic benefits for Indigenous communities across Ontario.”
The Indigenous Energy Support Programs will support this work and ensure that Indigenous communities can fully leverage opportunities in the electricity sector that can create significant, long-term economic benefits, reads a release from the province.
More information about the projects and energy support programs in Ontario can be found here.