A new renewable energy company to be run by First Nations for First Nations has received $2.7 million in FedNor funding to get up and running.
FedNor is providing $2,715,000 to create NCC Development Corporation LP, a renewable-energy micro-grid development company aimed at providing energy solutions for off-grid and remote First Nation communities.
NCC Development Corporation LP is a for-profit initiative of the Deer Lake, Fort Severn, Keewaywin, Poplar Hill, McDowell Lake, and North Spirit Lake First Nations.
The FedNor funding will enable the corporation, with the assistance of Canadian Solar Solutions Inc., to develop the structure of the organization, as well as its operational and technical capacity to work directly with First Nations and to ensure long-term, sustainable revenues.
NCC Development Corporation LP plans to roll out its renewable-energy solutions to off-grid and remote communities across Canada, many of which have diesel plants that are running at or near capacity. In addition, NCC will pursue business on international markets.
“This project represents an important step forward for many of our communities and will enable us to manage our energy consumption and conservation more efficiently,” said Geordi Kakepetum, CEO of NCC Development LP, in a release.
“We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada that is helping us find an innovation solution that not only will address our energy needs, provide a sustainable revenue stream, and create jobs, but will be a clean alternative.”
According to a report released by the Ontario Power Association, more than half of the 28 remote First Nations in Northwestern Ontario will reach their maximum electrical load by 2017.
