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Government of Canada backs 13 Indigenous-led clean energy projects with $40M investment
The federal government is investing over $40 million in 13 Indigenous-led clean energy projects across Canada through the Low Carbon Economy Fund’s Indigenous Leadership Fund, part of an ongoing effort to support reconciliation and climate action. The projects are expected to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and support Indigenous self-determination in the clean energy transition.
Announced Tuesday by Environment and Climate Change Minister Julie Dabrusin, the funding will help First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities install renewable energy systems like solar panels, wind turbines, and electric heat pumps. Other projects include energy retrofits and the development of zero-emission community buildings. Many of the initiatives are expected to reduce energy costs, create local jobs, and spur long-term economic opportunities.
The recipients include a broad range of communities and organizations across the country. British Columbia’s K’ómoks First Nation will receive nearly $690,000 for residential solar panels, while the Kinistin Saulteaux Nation in Saskatchewan will get more than $845,000 to build an EV charging system for local and medical transportation. In Quebec, the Makivvik Corporation will use $3.5 million to distribute solar kits in Nunavik.
Several projects focus on heating retrofits in northern and remote communities. Newfoundland and Labrador’s Mushuau Innu First Nation will receive over $5.8 million to install heat pumps in Natuashish, and the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band will receive nearly $4.3 million for similar upgrades. The Métis Nation of Alberta is being allocated more than $9.2 million to retrofit approximately 500 citizen-owned homes province-wide.
The announcement also includes funding for energy audits and policy development. The Métis National Council Secretariat will receive $150,000 for a carbon footprint audit, and the Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise will receive more than $1.2 million to contribute to national program advisory work. These projects align with Canada’s goal of ensuring Indigenous perspectives and knowledge help shape the country’s climate agenda.
The Indigenous Leadership Fund is a $180 million stream under the Low Carbon Economy Fund, co-developed with National Indigenous Organizations and clean energy experts. It supports Indigenous ownership and leadership in climate solutions, while also helping Canada implement Article 29 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act by advancing Indigenous rights to protect their territories and participate in climate decision-making.
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