Thirteen remote First Nations are taking steps toward building energy independence in their communities by investing in sustainable and clean-energy systems that will help people save on energy costs, reduce emissions and protect the environment.
“In these uncertain times, it’s more important than ever to diversify our energy sources and transition toward a low-carbon economy,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “First Nations are leading this change by advancing clean-energy projects in remote communities that will reduce their dependence on diesel fuel and help them attain energy sovereignty.”
The Community Energy Diesel Reduction (CEDR) Program is providing approximately $6.6 million to 13 off-grid, remote First Nations to support them in building clean-energy projects, including community energy plans, energy-efficiency upgrades and energy-generation projects, helping to reduce their reliance on diesel fuel for their power and heating needs.
The clean-energy projects vary in size and scope, and range from energy-generation projects, such as roof-top solar systems, to energy-efficiency upgrades in residential homes.
For example, the Xeni Gwet’in First Nations Government is receiving approximately $870,000 for completing the engineering feasibility and design of a solar-photovoltaic-coupled pumped storage system in their community. The system will complement a proposed mini-hydro project in Augers Lake that is expected to fulfil the community’s long-term energy needs and fully eliminate their reliance on diesel-generated electricity.
Other project highlights include:
* Skidegate Band Council is receiving $300,000 for installing a 96-kilowatt grid-tied rooftop solar system.
* Tsay Keh Dene Nation is receiving $1.5 million for the design of a 3.5-megawatt solar photovoltaic project.
* Ulkatcho Energy Corporation is receiving $1.1 million for the testing and commissioning for a 3.8-megawatt solar plant project and solar control centre in Ulkatcho First Nation.
* Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k:tles7et’h’ First Nations are receiving $40,000 for a feasibility study of renewable-energy generation technologies in the Kyuquot community.
* Gwawaenuk Tribe is receiving $88,635 for a new community energy plan.
* Hesquiaht First Nation is receiving $90,000 for a new community energy plan for the community of Refuge Cove.
* Takla Lake First Nation is receiving $90,000 for a new community energy plan for the community of Takla Landing.
* Skidegate Band Council is receiving $500,000 for installing energy-efficiency upgrades in 74 homes.
* Ulkatcho First Nation is receiving $500,000 for installing building envelope upgrades in 30 homes.
* Heiltsuk First Nation is receiving $500,000 for installing energy-efficient improvements in their community hall.
The CEDR program, administered by the New Relationship Trust, is part of the Province’s CleanBC Remote Community Energy Strategy. The program is primarily funded by the Province, with BC Hydro funding some energy-efficiency projects.
