(L/R) miEnergy CEO Kevin Bergeron, Chief Daryl Watson of Mistawasis Nehiyawak, MLTC Tribal Chief Richard Ben. (submitted/Errol Sutherland)

By meadowlakeNOW Staff

Indigenous energy

New majority Indigenous partnership announced, “green” economic opportunities for First Nations

Feb 10, 2022 | 4:17 PM

A new majority Indigenous-owned enterprise is hoping to drive the Indigenous economy and create employment opportunities throughout the continent.

miEnergy North America is a partnership among 10 First Nations — the nine under the Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC) and Mistawasis Nêhiyawak — and miEnergy Inc, a Western Canadian company specializing high-quality, large-scale EPC solar energy projects. Tribal Chief Richard Ben spoke to the intent to make miEnergy an energy leader, specifically with solar power development and related projects.

“The new enterprise will proudly promote and create sustainable, innovative renewable energy solutions for utilities, businesses, communities and Indigenous communities everywhere,” he said during the announcement while also thanking all the shareholders involved, including the nine MLTC First Nation Chiefs, Elders and the MLTC membership.

“[It] represents the future for our children.”

(Submitted photo/Errol Sutherland)

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This business partnership will also create direct financial returns and employment opportunities for each First Nation involved. Chief Daryl Watson of Mistawasis Nêhiyawak told meadowlakeNOW that the parties came together to identify synergies that would benefit everyone and maximize their potential, giving their people ‘skin in the energy game’. This is in line with the Nation’s vested interest in seeing the community grow and develop.

“It creates meaningful Indigenous inclusion in the energy sector, with a sustainable economy with energy sovereignty,” Watson said.

A chief driver of the venture is investing specifically in renewable energy, in order to accomplish what Watson called “re-establishing our relationship with the land.” He added that First Nations people have always been caregivers trying to maintain their relationship with the environment.

“So, as First Nations grow and develop, we’re starting to take our rightful place when it comes to green technology,” he said. “Utilizing that to maximize the efficiencies of technology, getting away from greenhouse gas emissions.”

“We will help pave the way for green energy and create a sustainable energy product.”

Watson also stressed that this isn’t just intended for the region, as miEnergy will be a North American organization.

“We’ll be reaching out to partners in the United States and wherever we can help create that opportunity for growth and development.”

The creation of this business is also designed as a statement of reconciliation, in addition to its commitment to a cleaner environment. miEnergy Inc. president and CEO Kevin Bergeron stated the company is proud to work with their partners to provide more sustainable energy solutions to Saskatchewan and beyond.

“These investments will create meaningful, long-term benefits for our communities and our planet, for decades to come,” he said.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

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