The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
In a bid to reduce electricity consumption, two Manitoba First Nations will convert 100 homes to geothermal heating and cooling. The project is to be completed this summer at Peguis and Fisher River and provide employment to 32 residents of those communities. It's being led by Aki Energy Inc., a social enterprise created by the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, BUILD Inc., Green Communities Canada and the Manitoba Geothermal Energy Alliance. Fisher River Chief David Crate said the project 'proves that job creation and environmental enhancement can go hand in hand.' Added Peguis Chief Glenn Hudson: 'We've long wanted to see jobs created by lowering heating bills in our community.' Aki Energy, an Ojibway word for earth, spearheaded the project. With its anticipated success, Aki Energy plans to expand the program province-wide and partner with four more Manitoba First Nations next year. Manitoba Hydro will finance the upfront capital costs through its Pay-as-You-Save (PAYS) program and the First Nations will repay those costs using the monthly utility bill savings.Ê Savings are expected to exceed $90 a month, or $1,080 a year, per home. 'Geothermal is a perfect fit for these communities,' said Darcy Wood, executive director of Aki Energy. 'First Nations have higher priorities than spending money on utility bills and all need more employment. Aki plans to roll this approach out in First Nation communities across the province.' Because it captures the differential temperature of the earth, geothermal is about three times more efficient than electric heating or cooling. Scott Thomson, president and CEO of Manitoba Hydro, said the Crown corporation is 'pleased to be working with our community partners on this exciting initiative.' Clifford Maynes, executive director, Green Communities Canada, commended Manitoba Hydro for developing PAYS financing. 'This innovative financing tool has enabled these First Nations communities to overcome upfront barriers and unlock valuable long-term energy savings,' Maynes said. Increasing geothermal throughout rural Manitoba is one of the goals of the provincial government's Clean Energy Strategy. _ Compiled from a Government of Manitoba news release
