First Nations Hydro Dam Proposal Enters New Phase

First Nations Hydro Dam Proposal Enters New Phase

Thursday, May 13, 2010 at 11:06

 

 

The James Smith Cree Nation, Chakastaypasin First Nation and the Peter Chapman First Nation entered into a feasibility study agreement to develop a hydroelectric project.

 

The project would be located downstream from where the North and South Saskatchewan Rivers meet.

 

Chief Robert Head of the Peter Chapman First Nation says the hydro project is a first step towards a new age in First Nations economic development.

 

Head says the groundwork was started 30 years ago by previous band councils.

 

SaskPower is investing 12 million dollars in the project.

 

The Pehonan Hydroelectic project – is beginning with an

18 month feasibility study.

 

If the project goes ahead, the partners would develop the site, build the project and enter into a power purchase agreement with SaskPower.

 

FSIN Grand Chief Guy Lonechild says he’s pleased with the agreement and believes resource opportunities like this could be the way forward for many First Nations.

 

Dean Kerr of Brookfield Renewable Energy says construction of the Pehonan project will bring 1.5 billion dollars in investment to Saskatchewan.