This remote First Nation pays lofty power costs. Forced to use U.S. source, they want to be on Ontario grid – CBC

‘Every month, we’re losing money,’ says Chief Linda McVicar of Animakee Wa Zhing 37

Nov 28, 2022

Despite the approaching dusk, there aren’t many lights turned on in Harvey Powassin’s home on Windigo Island, a remote community of about 50 people that is part of Animakee Wa Zhing 37 in northwestern Ontario.

As the mercury continues to drop, Powassin is getting ready for the return of winter and the high electricity bills.

He pulls out his hydro bills from last year. In January, it was $664 US. In February, it was $987.

“I try to be conscious about it,” Powassin said, “but not really a whole lot you can do in the winter time because you gotta keep the house warm for the pipes.”

Read More: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/windigo-island-electricity-costs-1.6664244