Native groups want a piece of energy pie
"We're looking for new opportunities to strengthen our First Nations so they can enjoy greater economic prospects, so I like the sound of that," McGuinty said after AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine met energy industry executives.
With many of the potential hydroelectric and wind-power projects possibly slated for native land throughout Ontario, Fontaine made the case to the Ontario Energy Association for greater aboriginal participation.
"New ways of thinking are what we need, especially when it comes to new ways of doing business and new partnerships between local First Nations communities and the energy sector," he said.
In Saskatchewan, for example, 10 First Nations have built and operate wind power farms, while Hydro-Québec has promised to boost access to contracts for James Bay Cree enterprises looking to help operate, maintain and repair a massive hydroelectric project.
"For far too long many First Nation communities have not had access to jobs because they were too far away from urban centres. But with... the energy sector, many of the communities are right there."
Related News
Wartsila to Power USA’s First Battery-Electric High-Speed Ferries
Wartsila, a global leader in sustainable marine technology, has been selected to supply the electric propulsion system for the United States' first fully battery-electric, zero-emission high-speed passenger ferries. This significant development marks a pivotal step in the decarbonization of maritime transport, aligning with California's ambitious environmental goals.
A Leap Toward Sustainable Maritime Transport
The project, commissioned by All American Marine (AAM) on behalf of San Francisco Bay Ferry, involves the construction of three 150-passenger ferries. These vessels will operate on new routes connecting the rapidly developing neighborhoods of Treasure Island and Mission Bay to…
