New Indigenous Council to Play Key Role in Advancing Clean Energy Projects in Indigenous, Rural and Remote Communities

As Canada continues to experience the impacts of climate change, particularly profound in the North and Arctic, many Indigenous communities are leading the way in building a resilient clean energy future. To support their vision, the Government of Canada is investing in Indigenous-led renewable energy projects, based on local priorities and innovative solutions that work in their communities. These projects will grow local economies and create good jobs while fighting climate change and protecting the environment in Indigenous, rural and remote communities.

Today, the Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson; the Minister of Northern Affairs, PrairiesCan and CanNor, the Honourable Dan Vandal; and the Minister of Indigenous Services, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, announced the selection of seven Indigenous leaders who will make up the Indigenous Council that will help guide the transition to clean energy in Indigenous, rural and remote communities.

The Indigenous Council will provide guidance and advice to the Government of Canada on policy and program design and direct engagement with Indigenous partners on accessing resources and funding that reduce diesel reliance. 

With the support of an Indigenous consultant team, the Indigenous Council members were selected on the basis of their knowledge and leadership in supporting community-driven clean energy projects. The Indigenous Council is distinctions-based with First Nation, Inuit and Métis representation, and reflects diverse communities, languages, geographies and skills. They will serve on the Indigenous Council until at least the fall of 2024.