The First Nations Power Authority and SaskPower have entered into an opportunity agreement to source 20 megawatts of flare gas power.
Flare gas power generation takes waste flare gas from oil and gas operations and uses it to produce electricity though a burner, rather than emitting into the atmosphere.
This agreement is worth an estimated $300 million over 20 years.
The Flying Dust First Nation is developing its own flare gas project, even partnering with an energy producer.
“We’ve got a partner that’s going to come in, provide the expertise to put the flare gas into the mill and create the power,” said Flying Dust First Nation Chief Jeremy Norman.
Norman says the First Nation is ready to go on the initiative, but concedes that there is a lot of work, which still needs to be done.
A power purchase agreement needs to be negotiated, which is expected to take six to 12 months to complete.
Norman says the revenues from the power production will be reinvested into the community to better the quality of life, especially the youth.
“Take this money that is raised and invest it back into our own communities,” said Norman.
The provincial government is in favour of this project, as it reduces emissions and expands energy production.
(PHOTO: Dignitaries gather to sign deal. Photo courtesy of Dan Jones.)