THUNDER BAY – Two more northern communities have joined the Wataynikaneyap Power energy grid project.
A month after the Indigenous-owned hydro company began providing power to Pikangikum First Nation, Mishkeegogamang First Nation and Ojibway Nation of Sagueen signed on to the project, bringing the number of signatories to 24.
"We are pleased to support this Project which we believe will allow First Nation communities to access a reliable, clean power supply while also bringing health and economic benefits to each of the communities involved,” said Chief David Masakeyash of Mishkeegogamang First Nation, in a release issued on Thursday.
“We look forward to continuing to work with Wataynikaneyap Power through ongoing engagement with our trappers and land users, and to identify additional economic benefits, including business and employment opportunities, for our First Nation and our First Nation partners. We are being assured that these discussions will be ongoing and respected.
Margaret Kenequanash, chief executive officer at Wataynikaneyap Power, said the addition of the two communities has strengthened the partnership even further.
“This is a significant project milestone that will have a powerful positive impact to the Indigenous People of the homeland in harnessing opportunities, improving community infrastructure and growth.”
The project is making progress on the regulatory permitting process and construction is expected to begin later this year.
