Enbridge Inc. (Enbridge) and Six Nations Energy Development LP, a consortium of Cowessess First Nation, George Gordon First Nation, Kahkewistahaw First Nation, Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, Pasqua First Nation and White Bear First Nations, have revealed plans to develop a 200-megawatt wind power project near Weyburn, Saskatchewan. The Seven Stars Energy Project will generate enough electricity to power around 100,000 homes. The financial participation of aboriginal partners will be facilitated by loan guarantees of up to $100 million from the Saskatchewan Indigenous Investment Finance Corporation (SIIFC). Aboriginal partners will have the opportunity to acquire at least a 30% stake in the project.
Economic and financial benefits
Chief Matthew Peigan of the Pasqua First Nation stated that this project will provide a stable and sustainable source of income for the Aboriginal communities involved. Enbridge, for its part, sees this partnership as a strategic opportunity to expand its renewable energy portfolio while partnering with local communities. Brent Digness, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism for the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan (MN-S), stressed that this project is crucial to economic reconciliation and minimizes financial risks for the citizens involved.
Project objectives and challenges
The aim is to have the project operational by 2027, subject to finalization of commercial agreements, environmental and regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of investment criteria. Enbridge is working to secure a long-term power purchase agreement with SaskPower, with a final investment decision expected in 2025. Matthew Akman, Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Enbridge, noted that this project is the company’s first collaboration with Aboriginal partners for wind power generation in Saskatchewan.
Strategic and commercial implications
Colin Gruending, Executive Vice President and President of Liquids Pipelines at Enbridge, emphasized the importance of Aboriginal economic participation in energy infrastructure projects. He also praised the support of the Saskatchewan government and the creation of SIIFC, which were essential in making this investment opportunity possible. Dustin Duncan, Minister responsible for SaskPower, said the partnership with Enbridge and Six Nations Energy Development will support SaskPower’s energy development objectives.
The Seven Stars project is a significant example of collaboration between a major energy company and indigenous communities. By providing clean energy to the province, this project also lays a solid foundation for sustainable economic reconciliation. This initiative could serve as a model for future similar collaborations across Canada.
