Hydro Project Will Power Economic Growth
THUNDER BAY – A new hydro power development on the Namewaminikan River is designed to generate not only power, but economic benefit. The Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinabek(AZA), Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek(BZA), and Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek(BNA) First Nations state they are “Proud to announce the recent signature of an Impact Management and Benefit Agreement with AXOR Group and Namewaminikan Hydro for the development of a 10 megawatt waterpower project on the Namewaminikan River”.
This agreement, which recognizes the First Nations’ stewardship of the land, their duty to act to safeguard their spiritual and cultural values, and the need to increase the skills and abilities of their members and create opportunities for increasing the communal wealth of their First Nations, should now pave the way for the construction of the projet to begin later this year.
As the project moves towards construction, it will generate numerous opportunities for the First Nations to be involved and provide opportunities for training and employment, business initiatives, and much needed revenue for community development.
Co-operation Fosters Sustainable Economic Development
This project is a great example of how the collaboration between AZA, BZA and BNA can foster sustainable economic development for the eastern Nipigon Lake region.
“We are proud to be working together with our neighbouring First Nations on this great initiative. We look forward to developing a strong and prosperous relationship with AXOR,” stated Chief Theresa Nelson, Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek.
“Although I became personally involved in the Project at the latter stages of negotiations, and the formation of the Partnership, I want to acknowledge the recognition given to the safeguarding of our spiritual and cultural values. After several years of collaboration with our First Nation neighbours and the Proponent (AXOR Group). I’m looking forward to the project which will foster sustainable economic development for our region,” shared Chief Valda Lesperance, Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek.
“Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek works very well with its neighbouring First Nation communities on resource developments throughout the region. I am thrilled that we are moving ahead with this initiative. We look forward to working with AZA, BZA, and our partner, AXOR, on this exciting Project,” comments Chief Laura Airns, Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek.
Bertrand Lastère, VP Energy, AXOR Group says, “We believe the signature of this agreement demonstrates the quality of the relationship AXOR has worked to develop over the years with AZA, BZA and BNA, and is a great example of the types of partnerships AXOR strives to put in place with local communities for the development of renewable energy projects throughout Canada.”
Project Background
Waaskonaasay Energy Ltd. is comprised of three First Nations; Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinabek(AZA), Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek(BZA), and Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek(BNA), who have a common interest in participating in hydro and wind economic ventures.
The energy division of AXOR Group specializes in the development of renewable energy projects. The company is committed to producing green energy in a sustainable manner that will not only benefit the environment but also generate economic opportunities for the local communities where the project take place.
LEARN MORE
- For more information about the Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, visit www.aza.ca
- For more information about the Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek, visit www.rockybayfn.ca
- For more information about the Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, visit www.bnafn.ca
- For more information about AXOR Group, visit www.axor.com
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