This release was issued under a previous government.

Nation hits the switch on new solar power

Minister Feehan and MLA Bruce Hinkley with members of Ermineskin Cree Nation’s Council and Neyaskweyahk Group board members in front of the new solar array.

The 61.2-kilowatt solar panel system will save the community nearly $8,000 a year in utility costs, allowing Ermineskin Cree Nation to invest in other community priorities. The solar array, which consists of a group of solar panels, will produce the equivalent energy of powering 10 homes over the course of a year.

“Ermineskin Cree Nation has shown great leadership in taking action to help combat the effects of climate change. We are proud to support the Nation in their efforts to make life better for their community and for future generations.”

Richard Feehan, Minister of Indigenous Relations

The solar array was installed at the Maskwacis Mall with support from Alberta’s Indigenous Solar Program. The solar panels are expected to generate 73.4 megawatt hours yearly and prevent almost 980 tonnes of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere.

“Our Nation is committed to making the world better for our children and for future generations. We appreciate the Alberta government’s support for green projects in our community. All of us must take action to make a real difference.”

Chief Craig Makinaw, Ermineskin Cree Nation

The $184,304 Alberta government grant for this project is part of $35 million in funding available in 2017-18 for Indigenous climate leadership programs that help Indigenous communities respond to climate change and provide greater energy security. These initiatives support the province’s commitment to implement the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Additional investments

In addition to the funds for the new solar array, Ermineskin Cree Nation also received:

  • $194,304 through the Alberta Indigenous Community Energy Program to examine potential energy-conservation measures for a number of community buildings and homes.
  • $87,556 through the Alberta Indigenous Green Energy Development Program to support the development of two new solar photovoltaic farms. Photovoltaic refers to the process of converting sunlight directly into energy.
  • $100,000 through the Alberta Indigenous Climate Planning Program to study the Nation’s electricity distribution system.

These grants will help the community reduce greenhouse gas emissions, make energy bills more affordable and support local jobs.