February 19, 2014
(Ear Falls, Ontario) Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and Lac Seul First Nation (LSFN) are celebrating the fifth anniversary of their commercial partnership in Obishikokaang Waasiganikewigamig / Lac Seul Generating Station.
“For five years, this partnership has provided our community with a source of revenue that has enabled us to create economic opportunities, joint ventures, and training programs that have enhanced Lac Seul First Nation’s ability to move forward down the road to self sufficiency and self determination,” said Chief Clifford Bull.
“Waterpower has long played an important role in the history of this province,” said Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Energy. “As the first partnership of its kind, this project provides an excellent example of how First Nation and Métis communities can participate in the energy sector, create jobs and contribute to producing clean energy for the province.”
OPG Sr. VP Hydro Thermal Operations, Mike Martelli said: “I am particularly proud of this partnership. I want to thank the Lac Seul First Nation for their continuing commitment and support which has been so instrumental in making this partnership a success. This partnership is a model that has proved successful on other projects, including the Lower Mattagami Project in northeastern Ontario.”
In November 2006 LSFN and OPG signed an agreement that resolved past impacts in the Lac Seul First Nation traditional territory and provided the opportunity for establishing a commercial relationship that would benefit both parties.
The 12 MW hydroelectric generating station located in Ear Falls, Ontario, started operating five years ago, on Feb. 18, 2009. Since that time the station has provided clean renewable energy to Ontarians, and proved to be a source of sustainable revenue for the Lac Seul First Nation, who have a 25 per cent share in the station.
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For more information contact:
Ontario Power Generation
Media Relations
1-877-592-4008 or (416) 592-4008
Lac Seul First Nation
(807) 582-3503
P.O. Box 100, Hudson, ON P0V 1X0
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