November 2, 2023
OTTAWA – CLIMATE News – Ten remote Indigenous communities and First Nations across Canada have victoriously concluded Phase 1 of the Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative (IODI) Cohort 2. This initiative underscores the proactive steps taken by these communities in combating climate change through the adoption of clean, renewable, and reliable energy sources.
The Government of Canada, expressing its support, proclaimed the successful assembly of clean energy leadership teams in each of the ten communities, facilitated by the Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise. These communities, having completed the 20/20 Catalysts program, are now gearing up for Phase 2 of IODI slated for later this fall. The subsequent phase will unlock funding opportunities for various projects encompassing training, community energy planning, and community engagement.
The communities part of this laudable initiative include Xeni Gwet’in First Nations Government, Tahltan Band, Uchucklesaht, Ḵwiḵwa̱sut’inux̱w Ha̱xwa’mis First Nation from British Columbia; Hamlet of Paulatuk in Northwest Territories; Fort Chipewyan, Mountain Cree Camp from Alberta; Pangnirtung in Nunavut; Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek – Gull Bay First Nation in Ontario; and Kangirsuk in Nunavik, Quebec.
The Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative is a fragment of the larger $300 million allocation outlined in Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan, aimed at bolstering clean energy projects in Indigenous, rural, and remote communities. The program is funnelled through Wah-ila-toos, a single-window access point designed for these communities to secure funding and resources from the Government of Canada for clean energy ventures. Administered by various federal departments including Natural Resources Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada, Wah-ila-toos epitomizes the spirit of kinship and the duty to foster good relations with all, as inspired by its name gifted by three Grandmothers and Elders.
This content was originally published here.
