Manitoba Hydro and Fisher River Cree Nation have signed a new collaboration agreement aimed at advancing energy self-sufficiency and supporting long-term economic development in the community.
The agreement, titled mâmawi-atoskêtân — meaning “working together” — establishes a framework for the two parties to jointly explore and evaluate energy projects that reduce consumption, increase local energy generation and create sustainable economic opportunities. The arrangement will see both groups meet regularly to identify priorities and carry out feasibility studies on proposed initiatives.
“Manitoba Hydro is committed to strengthening and improving our relationships with Indigenous communities,” said Allan Danroth, Manitoba Hydro president and CEO. “Through the mâmawi-atoskêtân agreement we are charting a new path toward understanding the evolving energy needs of Fisher River and providing the service to support those needs as part of our commitment to economic reconciliation.”
Chief David Crate said the agreement aligns with the community’s vision for long-term growth.
“Our community is looking to the future and the mâmawi-atoskêtân agreement lays the groundwork for greater energy self-sufficiency and economic growth,” Crate said. “We’re looking forward to collaborating with Manitoba Hydro to build a brighter future for our people.”
Under the agreement, discussions will centre on projects that could support community needs and economic expansion, including district or individual ground-source heating systems, energy efficiency upgrades for older commercial buildings, and analysis of Hydro equipment currently serving the community to determine whether system improvements are required.
A key area of interest is the potential expansion of Fisher River’s existing solar farm, which is currently the largest in Manitoba. The parties will also explore the feasibility of connecting the community to the natural gas distribution network, as well as opportunities to pilot emerging renewable technologies such as community-scale wind power.
The mâmawi-atoskêtân agreement is in effect for five years. Each party is responsible for its own participation costs.
