MLA Osborne says funding will support Indigenous-led clean energy projects

UCLUELET – New Democrat MLA Josie Osborne says local First Nations will be better able to meet their energy needs with funding for clean energy projects.

“First Nations are key partners as we work together to build cleaner, more resilient communities and power B.C.’s growing economy with renewable electricity,” said Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim and Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. “From roof-top solar to residential heat pumps and large-scale wind generation, the projects receiving funding today will advance Indigenous clean energy and create new opportunities across the province.”

In the Mid Island and Pacific Rim region, two projects are receiving funding:

• Toquaht Nation – $266,100 towards project design and engineering for a 13.5MW cluster of two small hydroelectric prospects and associated transmission lines.
• Tseshaht First Nation – $239,940 towards air source heat pump installations and other energy upgrades in 14 Elders’ homes.

Throughout B.C., 35 First Nations are receiving funding through the BC Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative (BCICEI), a partnership between the provincial and federal governments and the New Relationship Trust (NRT). Since 2016, the Initiative has supported over 135 projects with approximately $30 million.

Projects funded through this program include clean energy generation, energy efficiency and energy storage, helping First Nations to meet their energy needs and prepare for future needs while creating more jobs for people in their communities.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/30946