The governments of Canada and Ontario announced funding March 18 for 13 projects in communities across the province under the Small Communities Fund (SCF).
Among the projects are four solar-powered microgrids, all in First Nation communities: Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, Taykwa Tagamou Nation, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, and Oneida Nation of the Thames. Total funding for the four, in matching amounts by the provincial and federal governments, are $2,574,036 each. The microgrids will assist the communities in reducing reliance on diesel power.
Other projects include waste disposal systems, including landfills (but not energy from landfill gas).
The announcement is in addition to the 75 projects previously approved under the SCF in Ontario.
Total commitments by the two levels of government are over $5 million each for the 13 projects, which have a total eligible cost of more than $15 million. Communities will be responsible for all remaining project costs.