First Nations Power Authority Taking a Leading Role in Ontario’s Energy Sector

First Nations Power Authority is pleased to announce a partnership with Summerhill and taking a lead role in delivering the IESO First Nation Community Building Retrofit Program.

The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has also launched the Save on Energy First Nations Community Building Retrofit Program which is open to all on-reserve First Nations communities connected to the Ontario electricity grid. It provides up to $100,000 in funding as well as technical support to communities to improve the energy efficiency of band-owned facilities and manage their electricity use more effectively. 

A variety of energy-efficiency measures are available under the program, including indoor and outdoor lighting; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning controls; and more complex retrofit projects in facilities such as arenas and wastewater treatment plants. The newly launched program complements other Save on Energy programs supporting Indigenous communities. Summerhill is based in Ontario and is responsible for ensuring successful operations and delivery of programs they deliver on behalf of the IESO. To deliver the First Nation Community Building Retrofit Program Summerhill is partnering with two Indigenous-led and run organizations: First Nations Power Authority (FNPA) and Cambium Indigenous Professional Services (CIPS), as well as a diverse set of audit and direct install suppliers who are actively engaged in similar commercial auditing and installs through Ontario First Nations Power Authority (FNPA), will be providing the staff to engage directly and coordinate the application intake, community meetings, Band Council Resolution approvals, review and finalization of project plans and coordinating with the community on the details of the direct install and community install the track. 

FNPA was established in 2011 as a not-for-profit organization to facilitate the development of First Nations-led power projects and to promote Indigenous participation in power procurement opportunities. FNPA currently has 166 members including 76 Indigenous and 90 industry members. 

FNPA bridges the gaps between industry, government, and Indigenous communities to evaluate and develop Indigenous energy-saving projects and First Nation-owned power generation projects. FNPA leverages project development expertise, a network of industry experts, and technical advisors to develop projects resulting in increased economic benefits for First Nation communities.