Poplar Hill First Nation Connected to Provincial Power Grid

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Poplar Hill First Nation

Wataynikaneyap Power Brings Reliable Electricity to Another Northern Ontario Community

THUNDER BAY, ON – Poplar Hill First Nation has officially been connected to the Ontario power grid, marking a significant milestone in the community’s journey toward energy security and sustainability. The northern community was energized on March 12, 2024, and fully integrated into the grid on December 17, 2024.

A Historic Moment for Poplar Hill

For decades, Poplar Hill First Nation relied on diesel generators, which struggled to meet the growing community’s energy needs. Chief Alvin Owen emphasized the importance of this connection, stating:

“For too long, Poplar Hill has been reliant on diesel generators, which did not meet the needs of our growing community. Thanks to the connection to the grid, Poplar Hill First Nation has reliable power for all members of our community. In the past, power outages were common in the winter. We want to thank our former Chiefs, Jacob Strang and Howard Comber, for starting this important project. We look forward to the new opportunities that reliable power will bring for housing and future developments.”

Wataynikaneyap Power: A First Nations-Led Project

Wataynikaneyap Power is a First Nations-led infrastructure project majority-owned by 24 First Nations in partnership with Fortis Inc. and other private investors. The $1.9 billion project spans 1,800 km of transmission lines, designed to connect 17 remote First Nations to the Ontario power grid.

Poplar Hill First Nation is the 13th community to be energized through the Wataynikaneyap Power transmission system. Three additional First Nations are currently navigating the Independent Power Authority (IPA) process before their full connection.

Margaret Kenequanash, CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power, acknowledged Poplar Hill’s leadership in pursuing energy independence, stating:

“Congratulations to Poplar Hill First Nation on your connection to the power grid! The community’s vision for ownership, capacity building, and self-reliance in power distribution is inspiring. However, due to high costs and regulatory barriers, Poplar Hill was required to work with a regulated power distributor to complete the connection. We must continue advancing First Nations ownership in infrastructure projects to ensure sustainable development.”

Community and Government Leaders Celebrate Milestone

The achievement was celebrated on January 29, 2025, with a special gathering in Poplar Hill First Nation. Representatives from Wataynikaneyap Power, Opiikapawiin Services, government officials, and other stakeholders attended the event.

Frank McKay, Board Chair of Wataynikaneyap Power General Partnership, emphasized the significance of First Nations maintaining control over major infrastructure projects:

“The People’s vision is to grow First Nations ownership of infrastructure on our Homelands. We must continue working toward this goal so future generations can thrive.”

David Hutchens, President and CEO of Fortis Inc., also recognized the accomplishment:

“Fortis is proud to celebrate with Poplar Hill First Nation. This milestone is a testament to our shared commitment to a sustainable future, ensuring reliable and affordable energy for generations to come.”

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, attended the celebration, acknowledging the historic nature of the project:

“This is the largest First Nations-led grid connection project in Canada. Today’s milestone marks the end of diesel dependence for Poplar Hill First Nation, demonstrating what is possible when all levels of government collaborate with First Nations partners.”

A Brighter Future for Poplar Hill

Poplar Hill First Nation is located 570 km northwest of Thunder Bay and is accessible only by air or winter ice roads. The new power connection, facilitated by 190 km of transmission lines and four substations from Red Lake, ensures clean, reliable, and affordable electricity for the community.

Local electricity distribution will now be managed by Hydro One Remote Communities Inc.. With this improved infrastructure, Poplar Hill First Nation is poised for growth in housing, business development, and essential services.

Wataynikaneyap Power will continue working with McDowell Lake First Nation, the 17th community slated for future grid connection.

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