Canada invests in Indigenous-led clean energy projects across remote communities

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Indigenous and remote communities across Canada are pushing forward with clean energy solutions, reducing their reliance on diesel and investing in long-term sustainability. 

To support these efforts, the federal government has announced more than $11 million in funding for 15 community-led clean energy projects.

The funding, delivered primarily through the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities (CERRC) program, will support initiatives in Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Quebec. 

Many Indigenous and remote communities continue to rely on imported diesel for heat and power, which can be both costly and environmentally damaging. The newly funded projects focus on practical alternatives, including:

• Forest biomass and bioenergy systems
• Solar photovoltaic and battery storage
• Energy efficiency retrofits
• Feasibility and engineering studies to support long-term clean energy planning

These initiatives aim to increase energy security while creating economic opportunities and reducing emissions.

“Every community deserves access to reliable, sustainable energy to power their homes, schools, and businesses,” Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, said in a statement. 

“By working with Indigenous partners through Wah-ila-toos, we’re supporting Indigenous-led clean energy solutions that create good jobs and build stronger communities. These investments put decision-making power where it belongs — in the hands of communities themselves.”

Investing in energy security and sustainability

Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, highlighted the broader impact of these projects.

“I am pleased to see community-led projects contribute to building long-term resilience and prosperity within Indigenous communities,” Wilkinson said. 

“Clean energy solutions will ultimately lead to increased economic empowerment, improved health, and lower energy costs for households. Each project contributes to the broader goal of creating sustainable communities and a thriving economy.”

The federal government has emphasized that these investments align with its goals of reconciliation and Indigenous self-determination by supporting projects where communities lead decision-making.

“The path toward a sustainable future must be Indigenous-led and anchored in Indigenous perspectives and knowledge,” said Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs. 

“By supporting community-led clean energy projects in northern and remote communities, we are supporting First Nations and Inuit as they drive sustainable economic growth and protect the land for future generations.”

Expanding federal support for Indigenous-led clean energy

Since its launch in 2018, the CERRC program has supported over 190 projects across Canada, with a total allocation of $220 million over eight years. Additional funding through Budget 2021 added $233 million over five years and introduced the Indigenous and Remote Communities Clean Energy Hub, later renamed Wah-ila-toos, to streamline federal clean energy funding.

Wah-ila-toos is guided by an Indigenous Council that advises on programs, policy, and engagement strategies. The council recently released the Kinship and Prosperity: Proven Solutions for a Clean Energy Landscape report, outlining recommendations to support Indigenous, rural, and remote communities in transitioning to clean energy.

In addition to these initiatives, Budget 2024 has renewed the Strategic Partnerships Initiative’s Clean Energy funding, allocating $36 million over three years to advance Indigenous economic participation in clean energy projects across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada.

With continued investment, these programs are enabling Indigenous communities to take the lead in shaping Canada’s clean energy future while strengthening local economies and environmental stewardship.