‘More sustainable future’: Canadian government helping bring renewable energy microgrid to northern Manitoba

Ottawa is spending $21.6 million to help support a renewable energy microgrid in northern Manitoba.

The federal government is working to bring clean renewable energy to northern Manitoba.

Northern and Arctic Affairs Minister Rebecca Chartrand announced the feds have earmarked $21.6 million for a number of projects that will help generate and manage electricity in Sayisi Dene First Nation, which is located in Tadoule Lake.

“This is something that will create prosperity, ensure energy security and help us build a more sustainable future,” Chartrand said at a news conference Monday.

The first phase of the project would see Manitoba’s first-ever renewable energy microgrid.

It would help reduce emissions of carbon dioxide by around 500 tonnes every year and help lower energy costs in the area.

Chartrand said some northern communities, including Tadoule Lake, rely on diesel to keep power running, noting it’s too expensive, difficult to maintain and is imported.

“This is a project that shows what is possible when communities lead and when partners come together to build Canada strong. With this support, by this fall, the nation will deliver a new integrated energy microgrid, combining solar power, battery storage, and smart controls that will produce clean, reliable electricity for the community.”

Evan Yassie, the former chief of Sayisi Dene First Nation and the president of Sayisi Dene Renewable Energy, said this is the kind of project the community has been working toward to help provide cleaner energy for all residents.

“Our community is looking forward to the benefits that will come with phase one construction and commission this fall,” said Yassie.

“Revenue generated from solar power will go toward community needs as we strive to become more sustainable and reduce our emissions.”

Diesel usage is expected to be reduced by 26 per cent each year, and the goal is to eventually reduce diesel reliance by 60 per cent.

The solar power field will be built next to the diesel plant this summer.