SaskEnergy and First Nations Power explore sustainable energy solutions
Step toward greater Indigenous economic participation in clean energy initiatives
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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.
“Working 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,” said Dustin Duncan, Minister Responsible for SaskEnergy, in a press release.
The agreement is a step in the process of truth and reconciliation, and aims to increase Indigenous economic participation in the area of clean energy initiatives.
SaskEnergy and FNPA now have a commitment to work together to ensure a safe and reliable source of energy for First Nations. Many of those communities are seeking reliable, cost-effective energy to heat homes and other buildings.
To better understand the energy needs of those communities, FNPA has carried out energy audits with First Nation.
“Our Community Energy Plans provide a roadmap for Indigenous people to figure out the best path to have access to clean energy,” said Guy Lonechild, CEO of First Nation Power Authority, in the press release.
Collaboration with SaskEnergy together with energy audits is “empowering Indigenous-led initiatives towards a cleaner, more secure energy future,” Lonechild added.
The agreement will assist First Nations as they consider the best approach to energize their communities. It also supports the continuation of collaboration between SaskEnergy and FNPA to “identify Indigenous-owned businesses with expertise in decarbonization,” the release states.
SaskEnergy says it is committed to actively engage and work with Indigenous-owned businesses and Indigenous communities, and reducing emissions from its operations by 35 per cent by 2030.
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