FORT WILLIAM FIRST NATION, ONT. — The Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission Project, connecting remote First Nations to the provincial transmission grid for the first time, was voted the leading Clean50 Top Project in 2021 at the Clean50 Summit 10.0 held in Toronto recently.
Clean50 Top Projects are chosen annually based on their innovation, their ability to inform and inspire other Canadians. Votes were cast by sustainability advocates, emerging leaders, top project representatives, members of Clean50 and other attendees at the summit.
The Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission Project is an unprecedented First Nations-led project to build approximately 1,800 kilometres of transmission lines in northwestern Ontario to connect 17 remote First Nations to the provincial transmission grid, indicates a release, adding the project will reinforce the existing transmission grid to Pickle Lake.
The communities’ current diesel generated energy is insufficient, resulting in load restrictions and power outages which lowers the quality of life and limits the expansion of remote First Nation communities. By connecting to the power grid, the community will have access to cleaner and more reliable power.
The project is expected to result in over 6.6 million tonnes of avoided GHG emissions over 40 years by replacing approximately 25 million litres/year of diesel usage, adds the release.
“We are proud of this distinguished recognition from the sustainable business community. Connection to the Ontario power grid will not only reduce diesel usage and transport with stable, clean power available, First Nations are enabled to grow and improve community infrastructure and further community development including business and economic opportunities. This project is led by First Nations, who majority own this infrastructure being built on our homelands,” said Frank McKay, chair of the Wataynikaneyap Power GP Inc. board, in a statement.
For more information visit https://clean50.com/.
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