The world is changing rapidly. The United States is upending global trade, artificial intelligence is changing the world of work, and climate change is intensifying. In response, Canada's new government is focused on what we can control: building an affordable, competitive, and sustainable Canadian economy.
Reliable, affordable clean energy is central to our mission. Canada's demand for electricity is expected to double by 2050, and how we meet that demand will shape our future; a future with stronger economic growth, stronger communities, and new opportunities across the country. Canada already has one of the cleanest electricity grids in the world. Now it is time to build on that strength and lead the global clean economy, creating a better world for generations to come.
This starts with targeted investments in Indigenous-led clean energy projects, helping communities build key infrastructure, local capacity, and advance their own economic priorities.
To that end, on August 5, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay--Superior North, announced a total investment of $1,129,183 to Bingwi Neyaashi Anishnaabek (BNA) to help support the installation of a district biomass heating system that will provide reliable heat to buildings throughout the community.
Part of this investment includes $459,800 in funding previously announced in December of 2025. August 5's expansion of that funding comes as a result of FedNor's Northern Ontario Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative (NOICE), a Strategic Partnerships Initiative funded by Indigenous Services Canada and delivered by FedNor. One of NOICE's goals is to leverage additional investments from Government of Canada partners to support Indigenous-led clean energy projects. August 5's announcement of $669,383 in new funding helps advance that objective.
This investment will support the planning and construction required to bring the system into operation. Once running, the heating system will use wood residue from the local sawmill as a renewable fuel source, creating a local circular economy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and decreasing reliance on diesel-powered generators.
By partnering with Indigenous communities as they pursue their own development priorities, we are investing in more than infrastructure. We are investing in self-determination and in a Northern Ontario that is cleaner, stronger, and more self-resilient for generations to come.
Quotes
"Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek is not waiting for the economy of the future, they are building it. This district biomass heating system puts local knowledge, leadership, and innovation at the forefront, delivering clean energy across the community, while creating good jobs and new opportunities close to home. Together, we are strengthening local economies, advancing clean energy solutions, and building a more resilient Canada."
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister Responsible for FedNor, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay--Superior North
"Indigenous communities are leading the way in clean energy solutions, drawing upon generations of traditional knowledge and a deep connection to the land. Their leadership is essential as we transition to a sustainable future. This project is just one example of how investing in First Nation-led solutions can lead to new economic opportunities, and create a healthier environment for future generations."
- The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services
"The people of Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek are dedicated to fostering a strong cultural identity, to protecting Mother Earth, and to providing opportunities to all. That is why we are driving a cleaner, brighter future through renewable energy initiatives. Our partnership with FedNor is helping to make that possible. In addition to reducing environmental impact, this initiative will stimulate local employment and long-term financial returns for our community and beyond."
- Paul Gladu, Chief, Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek
Quick facts
- The Northern Ontario Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative (NOICE), a Government of Canada Strategic Partnerships Initiative funded by Indigenous Services Canada and delivered by FedNor. NOICE aims to provide projects with targeted funding support as well as services supports to fill gaps and address community capacity. The new initiative will foster the planning, implementation, and optimization of clean energy project opportunities.
- NOICE is anticipated to help increase capacity of Indigenous communities to address economic and business development opportunities related to clean energy, while strengthening community economic competitiveness through the implementation of clean energy projects.
- Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek (formerly known as Sand Point), is a First Nations community on the southeast shores of Lake Nipigon. Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek received its Order in Council from the Government of Canada in 2010, returning Lake Nipigon Provincial Park to the community.
- Today, approximately 80% of all electricity generation in Canada is created from non-emitting sources.
- Canada has the lowest residential electricity costs in the G7, the second-lowest industrial electricity costs in the G7 and the OECD, and the second-highest share of clean energy generation in the G7.
- Approximately $3 trillion is spent globally every year on electricity grids, efficiency, and electrification - with clean energy deployment accounting for the majority of new additions to electricity generation. By 2030, renewables are set to contribute the highest share of global electricity generation, according to the International Energy Agency.
