Thunder Bay, Ontario: The federal Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Carolyn Bennett announced funding of up to $60.1 million August 17 for Wataynikaneyap Power to build a 117-kilometre power line with associated infrastructure from Red Lake into the local distribution system at Pikangikum First Nation.
Construction on the power line will begin in fall 2017. Completion is expected in fall 2018. The project is the result of long-term collaboration with the Government of Ontario to advance electrification of First Nation communities in Northern Ontario. It is a significant first step in eliminating Pikangikum's dependence on diesel fuel by supporting a transition to more sustainable energy solutions.
Margaret Kenequanash, CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power LP said "This achievement is a very exciting milestone and I look forward to working in partnership with Pikangikum First Nation and Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada to bring this project to a successful completion. This will open the door to addressing the larger energy crisis and the need to connect other remote First Nation communities."