SaskEnergy and First Nations Power are exploring sustainable energy solutions

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A memorandum of understanding between First Nations Power Authority of Saskatchewan (FNPA) and SaskEnergy will guide an exploration of sustainable energy security solutions for First Nations communities.

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“In partnership with the First Nations Power Authority, SaskEnergy will expand their already successful Indigenous procurement policies and practices and explore options to bring natural gas to more First Nations communities,” Dustin Duncan, minister responsible for SaskEnergy, said in a news release.

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The agreement is a step in the truth and reconciliation process and aims to increase indigenous economic participation in clean energy initiatives.

SaskEnergy and FNPA now have a commitment to work together to ensure a safe and reliable energy source for First Nations. A lot of those communities are looking for reliable, cost-effective energy to heat homes and other buildings.

To better understand the energy needs of these communities, FNPA has been conducting energy audits with First Nation.

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“Our Community Energy Plans provide a roadmap for Indigenous people to find the best path to accessing clean energy,” Guy Lonechild, CEO of First Nation Power Authority, said in the release.

The partnership with SaskEnergy, along with energy audits, “validates Indigenous-led initiatives toward a cleaner, safer energy future,” Lonechild added.

The agreement will help First Nations consider the best approach to powering their communities. It too supports continued collaboration between SaskEnergy and FNPA to “identify Indigenous-owned companies with decarbonization expertise,” according to the press release.

SaskEnergy says it wants to actively engage and collaborate with Indigenous businesses and Indigenous communities, and reduce emissions from its operations by 35 percent by 2030.

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