SACHIGO LAKE – NEWS – The Ontario government, in partnership with Wataynikaneyap (Watay) Power, a First Nations-led company comprised of 24 Indigenous communities, has made significant progress in the second phase of the Watay Power Transmission Project. This initiative, the largest Indigenous-led energy project in Ontario’s history, aims to provide clean, reliable electricity to remote First Nations communities, including Sachigo Lake First Nation. The new transmission lines will connect over 18,000 people in 16 remote communities, greatly reducing reliance on costly, diesel-powered generators.
Sachigo Lake Chief Simon Tait remarked, “On behalf of Sachigo Lake community members, including Elders, youth, and land keepers, we are so pleased to celebrate the community’s connected to the provincial power grid. With this connection, we are no longer constrained by the limits of the diesel generators.”
“As someone who has lived and worked as a nurse in remote Indigenous communities across Canada, I can attest to how critical it is to have reliable infrastructure including access to clean, affordable energy,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation. “The Watay Power Transmission Project has been a major priority during both my federal and provincial chapters, and I’m proud that our government, under the leadership of Premier Ford, is unlocking unprecedented economic reconciliation opportunities for First Nations across the North.”
“With unprecedented growth, Ontario must expand and connect clean, affordable energy to remote northern communities. This partnership not only improves the quality of life in First Nations communities but also helps eliminate harmful diesel generators,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “The project will unlock jobs and opportunities for generations to come.”
Sachigo Lake First Nation recently celebrated its connection to the provincial grid, marking a major milestone in the project. Chief Simon Tait expressed gratitude on behalf of the community, noting the positive impacts of reliable power on daily life.
| “Congratulations Sachigo Lake First Nation! Now that daily power needs are being met, we can all focus on looking to future opportunities, instead of band-aid solutions.”
– Eliezar Mckay “This is a huge accomplishment for the community, and all 24 First Nation majority owners of the transmission system. Miigwech to all our service providers and partners who supported our vision!” – Frank Mckay “Fortis congratulates Chief Simon Tait and Sachigo Lake First Nation on the community’s connection to the main electricity grid in Ontario. Today’s electrification ceremony is a symbol of the importance of the Wataynikaneyap Power transmission system, allowing First Nations in Northwestern Ontario access to stable, reliable power while also reducing harmful emissions associated with prior use of diesel engines for power generation.” – David Hutchens |
The Watay Power Project is expected to generate over $1 billion for Ontario’s GDP and has already created jobs for nearly 1,000 First Nations members. Additionally, the project will prevent approximately 6.6 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually.
Quick Facts
- Sachigo Lake First Nation, located 425 km north of Sioux Lookout, has an on-reserve population of 540.
- $1 billion in diesel costs is expected to be avoided over the next 40 years.
- As of September 2024, 12 First Nations communities have been connected to Ontario’s clean energy grid.
