Report examines project ownership models for partnership between Indigenous communities and renewable energy companies
“Project Ownership Models for Remote Renewable Energy Development in Partnership with Indigenous Communities”, April 2022
… This report investigates and presents different ownership models for partnerships between utilities or energy developers and First Nations that are used in energy projects across Canada…
Partnerships can offer First Nations and Indigenous communities more opportunities for renewable energy development, but they must be rooted in trusting and respectful relationships…
After 9 years of negotiation and an extensive period of community consultation...the [Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation] NCN voted by referendum to enter into partnership Manitoba Hydro... The agreement established the Wuskwatim Power Limited Partnership (WPLP) and included many provisions to ensure that NCN values and priorities were respected in the planning and construction process....
Models with full Indigenous participation in planning and equal decision-making power are most effective at creating projects aligned with the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)…
There is no shortcut to earning trust and building a meaningful relationship, and the onus is on the utility or developer to demonstrate their commitment to repairing past wrongs, acknowledging, and respecting Indigenous self-determination, and working in genuine collaboration to advance the energy goals of the Indigenous community…
[The report mentions] Apuiat Wind Farm [which] is a joint project between the Innu First Nation and Boralex, and all development will be carried out with respect for Innu values, preservation of flora and fauna, and traditional practices...
The Canadian energy sector has a long history of disrespect, disregard, and displacement of Indigenous communities....
Full ownership of a renewable energy project not only offers the full economic benefit of a project but can help build community capacity and instil a sense of pride in the community members in the alignment of their energy technology and their worldview…