Going green with BC First Nations

Nothing quite demonstrates sustainability like developing your own renewable energy resource.

That's the path being taken by the Hupacasath First Nation. The small community in Port Alberni, BC, is developing a mini-hydroelectricity plant on China Creek that will produce 6.5 MW of 'green' electricity — enough to meet their own needs and sell the remaining to BC Hydro.

"What's really important for our community is finding diverse economic development projects that fit within our traditional values, such as sustainability," says Chief Judith Sayers.

The China Creek development is projected to offset greenhouse gas emissions by at least 10,000 tonnes each year. It's a small but important contribution to a bigger picture.

PWGSC was instrumental in helping the Hupacasath First Nation set up an advisory group to identify renewable energy projects of economic, environmental and social benefits to Vancouver Island First Nations. It also found funding to assess the environmental impacts of the China Creek plan and helped the band council make contact with financers, such as a credit union, to pay for the $16 million project.

As a Pacific Region representative for Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC), PWGSC is taking a lead role in carrying out the mandate of the national Aboriginal and Northern Community Action Program (ANCAP) — working with First Nations communities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and develop sustainable energy resources.

Many isolated BC First Nations communities want alternatives to costly and environmentally harmful energy sources such as diesel generators. PWGSC's role, for INAC, is to reduce the isolation and help generate solutions.

"We are working as a team with First Nations to create strategic linkages — to work with other partners that can help them develop solutions for alternative energy sources," says Biren Juttun, PWGSC's representative for INAC.

"These projects build capacity, skills and create jobs," says Mr. Juttun. "But this work is also very important because we are working with First Nations to help the Government of Canada fulfil its commitment to reduce greenhouse gases."

"We are really excited about creating sustainable electricity," says Chief Sayers. "We want to be part of the solution."

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by teaming up with First Nations and other Government of Canada departments is another example of PWGSC reaching out to create partnerships for a better future.

For more information on the Pacific Region ANCAP strategy, please contact Biren Juttun at (604) 666-9747 or biren.juttun@pwgsc.gc.ca.

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