Education and Capacity Building Program

Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation: Developing an energy project management and skills building program to train community members how to build, maintain and operate renewable energy assets.

Brunswick House First Nation: Developing a training and skills building strategy to maintain and operate two rooftop solar photovoltaic systems (30kW) and to build the skills for future solar expansion.

Caldwell First Nation: Developing and distributing educational materials and hosting events focused on energy issues in order to build awareness and knowledge of energy-related issues faced by First Nations and the community.

Chi Mino Ozhitoowin: Hosting a conference developed and managed by a representative youth committee from eight First Nations communities to invigorate youth interest and participation in energy projects. 

Chiefs of Ontario: Researching and developing an energy toolkit to help First Nations communities better understand energy systems in order to actively participate in the energy transition.

Chippewas of Georgina Island: Developing a series of workshops, events and educational materials in order to facilitate community participation in energy procurements.

Chippewas of the Thames First Nation: Delivering energy project management training and skills building in order to build, maintain and operate the community’s growing number of renewable energy assets. 

Fort Severn First Nation: Providing hands on training for local community members to operate and maintain a solar photovoltaic system.

Ga Gitigemi Gamik: Training community members in solar panel installation and providing hands-on experience and job training.

Ginoogaming First Nation: Developing mentor-based energy training plans between community members, educators and industry stakeholders.

Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise (x2): Funding will support the development and delivery of the Bringing It Home Project Accelerator program for two communities that will catalyze community-wide energy efficiency projects. 

Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise: Funding will support the participation of Indigenous energy leaders in Ontario in the 20/20 Catalysts Program, which provides practical and applied learning about renewable energy projects, community energy planning and energy efficiency.

Kasabonika Lake First Nation: Building capacity by utilizing drone technology to monitor the community’s solar project and ensure the panels and inverter are operating sufficiently. In addition, drone equipment will support the community’s biomass operation to assess optimal locations within forested areas to harvest sustainably.

Kashechewan First Nation: Developing a training and skills building strategy for their community energy team in order to operate and maintain their growing number of community energy assets. The focus is on monitoring, performance analysis, safety procedures, fault determination, preventative maintenance and troubleshooting.

Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation: Building capacity by utilizing drone technology to monitor the community’s solar project and ensure the panels and inverter are operating sufficiently. In addition, drone equipment will support the community’s biomass operation to assess optimal locations within forested areas to harvest sustainably.

Lac Seul First Nation: Developing an energy project management training and skills building program in order to build, maintain and operate their growing number of renewable energy assets.

Magnetawan First Nation: Developing an energy project management training and skills building program in order to build, maintain and operate their growing number of renewable energy assets.

M'Chigeeng First Nation: Hosting community energy engagements for youth and community members, in addition to training and travel costs for their Community Energy Champion.

Michipicoten First Nation: Enhancing skills and providing purposeful training to elders and youth to support the community’s  energy projects and infrastructure.

Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte: Developing an energy project management training and skills building program in order to build, maintain and operate their growing number of renewable energy assets. A community energy team will also be created as part of this project and trained to manage and build new sustainable and renewable energy projects.

Ogemawahj Tribal Council: Delivering regional based training, fostering capacity building for six First Nations and further refining educational initiatives.

Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (x3): Funding will provide continued support to the OAHS Energy Team comprising an Energy Supervisor and two Regional Tenant Awareness Program Representatives to implement energy plans for urban and rural First Nations, Inuit and Métis people residing off reserve in Ontario. 

Onyota’aka Kahsatst^’sla’ Ltd: Developing a training and skills building strategy for the Oneida Energy Team to familiarize their community with the basics of Battery Energy Storage Systems and their applications.

Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation: Delivering workshops and training for community members to get involved with renewable energy and energy conservation.

Sheshegwaning First Nation: Developing an energy project management training and skills building program in order to build, maintain and operate their growing number of renewable energy assets.

Six Nations of the Grand River: Enhancing skills and providing purposeful training to elders and youth to support the community’s  energy projects and infrastructure.

Taykwa Tagamou Nation: Developing a training and skills building strategy for their community energy team to familiarize themselves with the basics of Battery Energy Storage Systems and their applications.

Temagami First Nation: Hiring 25 youth at the Esker Lakes Camp for a six-week program through which Indigenous youth gain valuable work experience, training and education in the energy sector.

Temiskaming Native Women's Support Group (TNWSG): Funding will support a Residential Energy Auditor Training Program, a solar photovoltaic installation and maintenance training program and ongoing support for procurement participation.

Thessalon First Nation: Building energy related capacity and skills within the community and amongst its members through a series of engagement initiates and training opportunities.

Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation: Developing an energy project management training and skills building program for community members in order to build, maintain and operate their growing number of renewable energy assets.

Whitefish River First Nation: Engaging the community through delivery of Solar PV Operation and Maintenance Training, an Energy Symposium Event, and Youth Workshops.

Aamjiwnaang First Nation: This community will utilize funding to establish monthly community workshops and newsletters related to energy conservation and community-scale energy projects. At the end of the project, a Step-by-Step Community Energy Guide will be created by the community members and implemented by a Community Energy Club.

Animbiigoo Zaagi'igan Anishinaabek: Funding will support the employment and training for two youth to lead the operations of a biomass heating facility, supplying heat to homes and public spaces being created in the new community.

Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek First Nation: Funding will support further training for BNA’s CEC to provide job-ready capacity and develop tangible skills to continue supporting the community’s energy-related projects.

Brunswick House First Nation: The community will hire an Energy Coordinator to assist the CEC in initiatives to increase community awareness and capacity through knowledge building of energy conservation and energy-related issues. This will be done through community engagement workshops and the development and delivery of energy curriculum for youth. The CEC and Energy Coordinator will also complete Certified Energy Manager training from CIET.

Garden River First Nation: Funding will support the overall capacity of GRFN’s Energy Portfolio by delivering three key activities. These include on-going engagement activities to ensure community consultation in energy decision-making; hosting a Green Energy Career and Information Fair; and developing an energy database exclusively for GRFN energy programs and projects.

Grand Council Treaty #3: Funding will support initiatives for all 28 communities within Treaty #3; including community engagements to enhance awareness of, and knowledge about, energy-related issues in Treaty #3 area; and providing access to energy sector skills training programs and certifications that build job-ready capacity and develop tangible skills to prepare communities to participate in, develop, manage and own energy projects or initiatives. Grand Council Treaty #3 was successfully approved for four applications to support this initiative on a regional-based approach.

Kashechewan First Nation: A comprehensive training and skills building strategy will be delivered to support the development and operation of five micro rooftop solar photovoltaic systems (35kW) and equip Kashechewan First Nation with skills for future solar expansion.

Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation: Funding will support the employment and training in Phase 2 of the community’s Biomass Project which will further build job-ready capacity and continue to develop tangible skills within KI First Nation.

Mattagami First Nation: A comprehensive training and skills building strategy will be delivered to support the development and operation of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems and equip Mattagami First Nation with skills for future solar expansion.

Oneida Nation of the Thames: A comprehensive training and skills building strategy will be delivered to the Oneida Energy Team to operate and maintain the newly installed solar photovoltaic systems within their Community. The training will focus on monitoring, processes, performance analysis, safety procedures, fault determination, preventative maintenance and basic troubleshooting practices.

Opiikapawiin Services LP (OSLP): Funding will support the delivery of a community capacity building initiative called “Women in Power Pilot Project.” OSLP and its partners will engage with five communities to promote the program, enlisting 10 women to participate. Women selected will participate in a five-day workshop to build skills and knowledge on energy conservation, efficiency and planning in Northern Ontario First Nations to bring back to their communities.

Pikangikum First Nation: A comprehensive training and skills building strategy will be delivered to support the development and operation of four micro rooftop solar photovoltaic systems (10kW AC) and equip Pikangikum First Nation with skills for future solar expansion.

Pikangikum First Nation: Funding will support the employment and training in Phase 2 of the community’s Biomass Project which will further build job-ready capacity and continue to develop tangible skills within Pikangikum First Nation.

Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation: A comprehensive training and skills building strategy will be delivered to support the development and operation of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems and equip Sagamok First Nation with skills for future solar expansion.

Sheshegwaning First Nation: A comprehensive training and skills building strategy will be delivered to support the development and operation of two micro rooftop solar photovoltaic systems (30kW) and equip Sheshegwaning First Nation with skills for future solar expansion.

Taykwa Tagamou Nation: A comprehensive training and skills building strategy will be delivered to the TTN Energy Team to operate and maintain the newly installed solar photovoltaic systems within their Community. The training will focus on monitoring, processes, performance analysis, safety procedures, fault determination, preventative maintenance and basic troubleshooting practices.

Temiskaming Native Women's Support Group (TNWSG) – Keeper’s of the Circle: Funding will support energy related events and workshops for TNWSG/KOTC members to increase general energy awareness and literacy. Additionally, the organization’s CEC will participate in training through CIET and ICE’s 20/20 Catalyst program.

Three Fires Group Inc.: Funding will support Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation community-guided meetings, knowledge sharing and capacity building initiatives on the energy demand in Southwestern Ontario and the potential environmental and ecological impacts and opportunities.

Union of Ontario Indians - Anishinabek Nation: Funding will support communities through education and awareness campaigns on energy topics and renewable energy solutions; providing guidance to the UOI's and communities' leadership and technicians on assessing and implementing regionally appropriate techniques and technologies; and exploring innovative approaches to sharing consumption data and optimizing energy conservation.

Wikwemikong Development Commission: The project will focus on engaging Wikwemikong First Nation to work toward and be a part of the community energy planning process. Initiatives will include community workshops and the development of a Climate Change Action team to work with the CEC on advocating and engaging members in discussion and input required to take action.

Atikameksheng Anishnawbek: This project will support youth science camps delivered by Elephant Thoughts, aimed to engage participants and community members. . Topics will include energy use, design and generation, and climate change.

Garden River First Nation: Members will be able to attend energy-related conferences and participate in training aimed to increase knowledge and capacity on waste-to-energy.

Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise: Funding will support the Catalyst 20/20 program, which incorporates practical and applied learning in renewable energy technologies, community energy planning, energy efficiency, conservation and advanced energy systems technology.

Kasabonika Lake First Nation: Funding will support training and salaries for four community members to install, maintain and operate a 300 kilowatt (kW) wood chip boiler system.

Michipicoten First Nation: This project aims to increase overall community energy awareness and literacy through community and youth-specific workshops. It will als provide funding for the Community Energy Champion to participate in the Canadian Institure for Energy Training program.

Sagamok Anishnawbek: The project will increase knowledge on renewable energy, and implement Relay hands-on workshops (wind and solar) for youth. Relay Education works with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities to co-develop tailored education and skills building programs.

Six Nations of the Grand River: This community will offer training, capacity building and educational initiatives for staff, leadership and community members.

Temagami First Nation: Outland Youth Employment Program (OYEP) will offer a six-week training program for youth, tailored to meet the needs of the local community.

Wahkohtowin Development GP Inc.: Funding will be invested in the development of an Innovation Centre, part of the Northeast Superior Regional Energy Strategy. Programs will enhance awareness and knowledge about energy-related issues and build internal organizational capacity.

Wataynikaneyap Power LP: This project will provide mentorship and skills training to prepare the community to participate in, develop and manage energy projects. The goal is to encourage youth to pursue technical post-secondary programs and careers with the Wataynikaneyap Power Project.

Alderville First Nation: This project is to provide energy education to the community around renewable energy, energy conservation, and energy savings to build capacity and increase knowledge of energy and energy system participation.

Caldwell First Nation: This project will provide builder training for net-zero homes in the community to build capacity and contribute to the goal of an environmentally-sustainable reserve.

Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation: This project builds on initiatives outlined in the Community Energy Plan, such as improving understanding of energy use and costs and engaging community in energy cost reduction strategies. The project will include community and youth-specific engagement along with training for the Community Energy Champion.

Grand Council Treaty #3: Grand Council Treaty #3 will host energy capacity engagement sessions with each of the 28 Treaty #3 communities on areas such as energy conservation and sustainable energy practices for a home environment. In addition, they will engage Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) to host targeted energy conservation workshops for the Treaty #3 territory.

Henvey Inlet First Nation: This project builds on initiatives outlined in the Community Energy Plan, including education in relation to energy conservation and generation with an emphasis on new and emerging technologies. It will include community and youth-specific engagement along with training for the Community Energy Champion.

Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation: Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation has been funded to cover training and wages for three community members to install a wood chip boiler system to offset diesel costs and increase energy security and economic development for the community.

Moose Cree First Nation: The project will provide the skills, knowledge and capacity development through community training and information sessions, to allow Moose Cree First Nation to pursue biomass development, and offset the high costs of propane and oil heating.

Ogemawahj Tribal Council: This project will deliver regional-based training, foster capacity building for six First Nations, and refine further educational initiatives within Ogemawahj Tribal Council communities to ensure they are adaptive to energy requirements and sources as well as ensuring the sustainability of energy delivery to communities.

Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS): This project involves the creation of an Energy Team comprising an Energy Supervisor and four Regional Tenant Awareness Program Representatives to implement energy plan for urban and rural First Nations, Inuit & Métis people residing off reserve in Ontario. The energy plan includes training, energy audits, maximizing energy efficiencies in all OAHS units, tenant education and awareness, research and expansion of green energy initiatives, Canadian Institute for Energy Training (CIET) and other certified training, including Catalyst, and planning for high energy efficiency options in all newly acquired and new residential builds across Ontario. They were successfully approved for six applications spanning the various initiatives.

Rocky Shore Development Corporation: Energy capacity building workshops will be held in Ginoogaming First Nation to help community members understand energy efficiency and conservation, as well as future energy technologies such as solar and biomass to promote building retrofits and renewable energy development for the First Nation.

Saugeen Ojibway Nation Environment Office & Relay Education: Saugeen Ojibway Nation Environment Office and Relay Education will promote energy literacy by hosting community workshops and meetings to educate members on the current energy environment and basic energy concepts, as well as providing youth-specific workshops on wind and solar.

Taykwa Tagamou Nation: Taykwa Tagamou Nation will provide direct training for their Community Energy Champion and Energy Team on how to understand and manage a new solar build, which includes a community and project communication plan, solar theory and installation training, and opportunities to attend green power conferences and visit other communities to establish energy networks.

Temagami First Nation: Training will be provided to community members in order to operate and maintain a new ultra efficient multi-use facility with LED lighting and geothermal heat pumps, and an additional solar PV microgrid system and combined heat and power (CHP) biomass facility that are under development.

Wabaseemoong Independent Nations (WIN): Wabaseemoong Youth Green Living Initiative, on behalf of WIN, will lead a paid employment, skills and training program for at-risk youth to develop and build off-grid solar-powered tiny homes. The program includes engagement events, training sessions, and a unique youth-elder mentorship program for the duration of the project.

Wahgoshig First Nation: This project builds on initiatives outlined in the Community Energy Plan, including encouraging community participation in the energy plan as well as assisting individuals in selecting technologies for their homes. It will include community and youth-specific engagement along with training for the Community Energy Champion.

Whitefish River First Nation: This project builds on initiatives outlined in the Community Energy Plan, including education in relation to solar electric safety training for local first responders. It will also include community and youth-specific engagement along with training for the Community Energy Champion.

Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise – eGathering: Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) will host the e-Gathering, a virtual version of their annual “The Gathering”, which brings together Catalysts, mentors, and leaders in the Indigenous energy space to share best practices, ICE program updates and solutions for community-based renewable energy development.

Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise – Catalysts: Funding will support the Catalyst 20/20 program, which incorporates practical and applied learning in renewable energy technologies, community energy planning, energy efficiency and conservation and advanced energy systems technology.

Pikangikum First Nation: funding will be utilized to support training and salary for three community members to maintain and operate a 300 kW dual wood chip boiler system.

Wahgoshig First Nation: Wahgoshig First Nation intends to provide a suite of training, capacity building, and educational initiatives aimed at staff and community members. This includes technical training for the Community Energy Champion (CEC), building energy awareness and capacity within membership, and training staff to conduct residential energy audits.

Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC): OFNTSC will develop and deliver a foundational, integrated, and multi-module curriculum on Waste-to-Energy (WtE) for IESO Community Energy Champions (CEC) and OFNTSC’s Solid Waste Tribal Council Coordinators.

Opiikapawiin Services LP (OSLP): OSLP plans to develop and deliver an energy curriculum for First Nation youth in 20 rural and remote communities that are partners in the Wataynikaneyap Power project.

Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation (SNGRDC): SNGRDC, along with the participating communities of Wahgoshig First Nation, Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, and Walpole Island First Nation, will undergo educational sessions to gain a detailed understanding of Anaerobic Digestion (AD) and biogas technologies, and the applicability for utilizing micro-biogas systems within their communities.

Oneida Nation of the Thames: Oneida will utilize funding to support energy training and capacity expansion within the community by establishing an Oneida Energy Team, training the Community Energy Champion, and providing job training to members for upcoming solar installation work on the community microgrid.

Funded initiative: Provide a suite of training, capacity building, and educational initiatives aimed at staff, leadership, and the community. This includes Community Energy Champion (CEC) training, the formation of an energy committee and general capacity building for leadership and membership.

Beausoleil First Nation

Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation

Chippewas of Rama First Nation

Henvey Inlet First Nation

Ogemawahj Tribal Council

Six Nations of the Grand River

Walpole Island First Nation

Whitefish River First Nation

Funded initiative: Increase community awareness and knowledge of energy conservation and related issues through implementation of the Community Energy Plan (CEP), which includes the hiring of a Community Energy Liaison.

Constance Lake First Nation

Mishkosiminiziibiing (Big Grassy River) First Nation

Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation

Mitaanjigamiing First Nation

Moose Deer Point First Nation

Pays Plat First Nation

Wabaseemoong Independent Nations

Other Funded Initiatives:

Lac La Croix Majiishkaa Community Organization: OYEP is a local, community driven initiative that works towards equity and opportunity for Indigenous Youth through education, training and work opportunities. Over this six-week program, Indigenous Youth gain valuable work experience training and education in a supportive space that can be tailored to meet the needs of local communities and energy partners.

Coral Rapids Power: Allow the President of Coral Rapids Power (also a member of Taykwa Tagamou Nation) to receive a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) designation and increase energy capacity within the organization and community.

Garden River First Nation: The goal of this project is to create a user-friendly Building Guide for community members who wish to build their home privately on-reserve. The Guide will provide valuable and practical information that supports, empowers, and builds capacity in homeowners as they embark on their home-building journeys. It will subsequently result in safer, more energy-efficient homes, equitable building processes, and a higher level of satisfaction, empowerment and environmental sustainability for the homeowner.

Nishnawbe Aski Nation: NAN will hire an Energy Audit Coordinator (EAC) to provide ongoing assistance, training and support to local energy auditors, and help to identify energy-related change in the NAN territory to support the Strategic Framework

Nishnawbe Aski Nation: Funding for the NAN Environment and Infrastructure Symposium to gather community members, technical staff, and government representatives to discuss steps needed to address the urgent climate change, energy and housing needs in NAN territory.

Aki Majidaawin Resource Development LP: The initiative will educate and train Nibinamik First Nation’s Energy Champion, Project Committee members and interested community members on the design, operations and maintenance basics of a small (~20kW) solar/storage/diesel MicroGrid.

Sachigo Lake First Nation: The initiative will educate and train Sachigo Lake First Nation’s Energy Champion, Project Committee members and interested community members on the design, operations and maintenance basics of a small (500-750 kW) wood combustor and hot water boiler system, in the first steps to explore a potential Clustered District Heating System.

Kasabonika Lake First Nation: The initiative will educate and train Kasabonika Lake First Nation’s Energy Champion, Project Committee members and interested community members on the design, operations and maintenance basics of a small (500-750 kW) wood combustor and hot water boiler system, in the first steps to explore a potential Clustered District Heating System.

Red Rock Indian Band: The initiative is an extension of their ECB 5.0 project to hire a Community Energy Officer.

York University: York University, QUEST and TRCA will partner to develop and deliver a professional development course for municipal land use planners that provide them with the knowledge and skills to accelerate the integration of energy and climate policy into land use planning (i.e., official plans, secondary planning, non-statutory master plans, and zoning by-law) and their implementing development review processes. The course will be designed to build awareness and capacity for energy and climate planning among Ontario’s urban planning community and share best practice (i.e., policy, procedures and tools) to improve the quality, consistency and municipal capacity to implement CEEPs.

Fort Albany First Nation: The initiative, in collaboration with Relay Education, is to develop and deliver a series of capacity building and energy literacy workshops, co-developed with the community to inform leaders, community members, elders, children and youth so all members of the community have the opportunity to have informed engagement as Fort Albany develops and builds renewable energy generation. It also includes technical training so members of the community can work on solar projects.

Matawa First Nations Management: Matawa First Nations Management will work closely with Relay Education to implement the Renewable Energy Procurement Training Workshops that will take place over five days, and bring together 2 representatives from each of the 9 Matawa membership communities. These sessions will be held in Thunder Bay or the First Nation communities, in which delegates will consist of Chiefs, Councillors, Economic Development Officers, and Energy Workers. These workshops will target topics relating to renewable energy procurement, development, cost and economic factors, and timelines and workplan building for development of renewable energy.

MoCreebec Eeyoud Council: The initiative will involve MoCreebec Eeyoud staff working with researchers from Carleton University’s Northern Renewable Energy Research program to conduct feasibility research, which will provide inputs into plans for a potential new community site. The feasibility research will assess the viability of various renewable energy sources from an energy and community sustainability perspective. The project will look at two energy systems from both an engineering and policy perspective: net-metering and district heating.

Pikangikum First Nation: Pikangikum First Nation intends to install a 300 kW dual wood chip boiler system in the community and train four community workers. 

North Caribou Lake First Nation: North Caribou Lake First Nation intends to install a 300 kW dual wood chip boiler system in the community and train four community workers. 

Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation: Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation intends to install a 300 kW dual wood chip boiler system in the community and train four community workers. 

Pollution Probe:  In partnership with QUEST, the initiative is to develop a Smart Energy Communities Scorecard.  The Scorecard will provide community champions and decision makers with evidence of success stories, failures and lessons learned, providing them with the confidence and information they need to invest in measures that allow for energy reductions. This information will be made available through a public web-based dashboard and scorecard report that summarizes multi-sectoral policies, processes and measures, and roadmaps for action, so that communities in Ontario and right across Canada can draw upon a national database of best practice. For Ontario, the Scorecard will incorporate results from the Planning Alignment Project, a project that is evaluating the disconnect between the IESO’s regional electricity planning, community energy planning, and utility distribution and conservation planning, which is creating an added layer of complexity and uncertainty for conservation efforts. Based on the opportunities identified in the Planning Alignment Project, the Scorecard will offer insights local governments, utilities, IESO, and other local stakeholders about where more consideration can be given to improve efforts for sharing data, address peak demand, and collaborate on projects.

Fort William First Nation: Fort William First Nation is directly impacted by the development of the East West Tie Transmission Project.  The community has negotiated employment and training opportunities within the EWT Project and wishes to build capacity in their members and regional First Nation/Métis groups so they can participate in the EWT project development and operation.  Fort William as an owner of the East West Tie Transmission line views the project as an opportunity to improve the lives of their members over the life of the project.

Michipicoten First Nation: Michipicoten First Nation is directly impacted by the development of the East West Tie Transmission Project.  The community has negotiated employment and training opportunities within the EWT Project and wishes to build capacity in their members and regional First Nation/Métis groups so they can participate in the EWT project development and operation.  Michipicoten as an owner of the East West Tie Transmission line views the project as an opportunity to improve the lives of their members over the life of the project.

Council of Ontario Universities (COU): To standardize the use of the RETScreen Expert Clean Energy Management Software as a sector wide common software tool for energy management and carbon reduction in university buildings in Ontario; and to ensure adequate capacity amongst university staff to use the software to achieve desired GHG, energy and financial objectives. The eventual target is to get most, if not all, of the 1,100+ Ontario university buildings included in one master portfolio file in RETScreen Expert. All universities will have access to this file for benchmarking purposes and each institution will also be able to use their buildings’ individual files for identifying projects, measurement and verification, etc.

Pic Mobert First Nation: Pic Mobert First Nation is directly impacted by the development of the East West Tie Transmission Project.  The community has negotiated employment and training opportunities within the EWT Project and wishes to build capacity in their members and regional First Nation/Métis groups so they can participate in the EWT project development and operation.  Pic Mobert as an owner of the East West Tie Transmission line views the project as an opportunity to improve the lives of their members over the life of the project.

Pays Plat First Nation: Pays Plat First Nation is directly impacted by the development of the East West Tie Transmission Project.  The community has negotiated employment and training opportunities within the EWT Project and wishes to build capacity in their members and regional First Nation/Métis groups so they can participate in the EWT project development and operation.  Pays Plat as an owner of the East West Tie Transmission line views the project as an opportunity to improve the lives of their members over the life of the project.

Biigtigong Nishnaabeg: Biigtigong Nishnaabeg is directly impacted by the development of the East West Tie Transmission Project.  The community has negotiated employment and training opportunities within the EWT Project and wishes to build capacity in their members and regional First Nation/Métis groups so they can participate in the EWT project development and operation.  Biigtigong Nishnaabeg as an owner of the East West Tie Transmission line views the project as an opportunity to improve the lives of their members over the life of the project.

Red Rock Indian Band (Supercom): Red Rock Indian Band is directly impacted by the development of the East West Tie Transmission Project.  The community has negotiated employment and training opportunities within the EWT Project and wishes to build capacity in their members and regional First Nation/Métis groups so they can participate in the EWT project development and operation.  Red Rock as an owner of the East West Tie Transmission line views the project as an opportunity to improve the lives of their members over the life of the project.

Garden River First Nation: Garden River First Nation intends to hire a full-time Energy Advisor who would work with the ERCD Team Leads and deliver objectives as they relate to the community energy plan in relation to current and future needs of the First Nation. They seek to deliver an implementation strategy, so the First Nation meets energy needs and achieve goals as they would relate to the plan.

ReThink Green: The initiative is to create a Regional Energy and Emissions Planning Committee for Manitoulin Island in order to strengthen the existing energy planning processes in the district, and broaden the scope of energy planning across Manitoulin Island.

Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation: The initiative will fund an Energy Liaison for the community to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Iskatewizaagegan #39 Independent First Nation: Iskatewizaagegan #39 Independent First Nation intends to hire a Community Energy Specialist to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Taykwa Tagamou Nation: The initiative will fund an Energy Liaison for the community to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Oneida Nation of the Thames: The initiative will fund an Energy Liaison for the community to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Wahta Mohawk Council: Wahta Mohawk Council intends to hire a Community Energy Specialist to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Naicatchewenin First Nation: Naicatchewenin First Nation intends to hire a Community Energy Specialist to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Wasauksing First Nation: Wasauksing First Nation intends to hire a Community Energy Specialist to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Wahnapitae First Nation: Wahnapitae First Nation will send an individual to the Catalyst 20/20 Energy Program.

Saugeen First Nation #29: Saugeen First Nation #29 will hire an Energy Coordinator to manage the coordination of residential heating and cooling projects.

Ochiichagwe’Babigo’Ining Ojibway Nation: Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining Ojibway Nation intends to hire a Community Energy Specialist to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Wikwemikong Development Commission: Wikwemikong Development Commission seeks to hire an Assistant Energy Planner and train both the current Energy Planner and Assistant in CEM (Certified Energy Manager) certification.

Confederation College: The purpose of this project is to introduce biomass heat in three selected communities in northwestern Ontario not served by natural gas. In the absence of natural gas, many northwestern Ontario communities rely on comparatively expensive sources for heat, such as oil, propane, or electricity. This project will train community champions to lead the biomass initiative and possess the skills to transfer knowledge to others. This project will focus on promoting and developing renewable energy in Northern municipalities and First Nations.

Canadian Biogas Association APAO: This proposal is an extension of previous ECB initiatives, with a focus on how new and emerging policies impact and benefit biogas project development and facility revenue options. 3 seminars targeting municipalities will be hosted to provide information on financing and successful case studies. The goal is that attendees will gain knowledge to start their own biogas ventures which will both generate profit and keep in line with new Ontario regulations and climate change policies.

Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation: Six Nations will implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP), including an 18 month extension of employment for the Energy Planner Position within SNGRDC, and to implement a School Energy Outreach Program (including School Energy Day events).

Fleming College: The initiative, in collaboration with the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA), is to develop and deliver an interactive training program for wastewater treatment operators and plant management. The program will focus on increasing operator's awareness and knowledge of energy efficiency and usage, conservation measures, and the impacts they have on the environment, emissions, and climate change. Each session will include group work, discussions, case studies, and exposure to real-life scenarios, augmented by facility and plant tours. The target participants for the training will be facility operators, members of facility management, and any additional personnel involved with water and wastewater operations in the identified regional hubs (City of Kawartha Lakes, Ottawa, and Wasaga Beach).

Wahgoshig First Nation: Wahgoshig First Nation has completed a Community Energy Plan (CEP), and will implement this by hiring an Energy Officer. The Officer will focus on: community organization and coordination; ongoing coordination, evaluation, and renewal of the energy plan; energy education, training, and community participation; energy management and analysis; and Transportation Fuel Management.

Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation (MNCFN): Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation will implement their Community Energy Plan, including the creation of a Community Energy Liaison position, the creation of a Community Energy Committee, and hosting various energy education and conservation initiatives within the community.

Biigtigong Nishnaabeg First Nation: Having completed a Community Energy Plan (CEP), Biigtigong Nishnaabeg will implement actions and initiatives towards achieving their goals of reducing energy costs through education, supporting sustainable energy practices, and providing support for future funding programs. The community will proceed with executing their CEP by hiring and training a Community Energy Advisor.

Trent University: Continuing from the success of ECB 3.0, Trent will modify “The Beyond D2C Pilot Program”. This modification includes a change in the way the information is delivered as well as who is involved in the planning and development of the Program. The changes will focus on four key project elements: Engagement and Design, Planning and Program Delivery, Legacy and Evaluations, and Positioning for Diploma Program.

University of Guelph: In cooperation with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), The initiative seeks to: 1) develop and apply a systemic approach to mapping renewable energy (RE) potentials at the landscape scale and 2) use these maps to engage local stakeholders in a dialogue to identify acceptable locations for particular kinds of RE development. A toolkit will be developed so these processes might be applied within any region in Ontario. This would allow communities to develop plans considering energy supply, rather than just showing energy demand.

Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation: Having completed a Community Energy Plan (CEP), Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation will implement actions and initiatives by hiring a Community Energy Advisor.

Sagamok Anishnawbek: Sagamok Anishnawbek will hire a Sustainability Coordinator to carry out their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care (CCGHC): In partnership with the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA), CCGHC will continue the work from ECB 3.0. The initiative focuses on building the education and capacity of energy and facility management staff in the Fort Albany Power Corporation area which benefitted the health care facilities in the west James Bay coast. Participants who complete the training will attain their Building Operator Certification.

Kiashke Zaaging Anishnaabek (Gull Bay First Nation): Gull Bay First Nation is one of four communities in Northwestern Ontario that will never be grid connected due to lack of economic feasibility. The current Energy Projects Coordinator is busy engaging the community for a micro grid project and will take on two interns to support this work.

Couchiching First Nation: Couchiching First Nation will hire a Community Energy Advisor to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Ryerson University: The Facilities Management and Development (FMD) department will implement an Energy Conservation and Awareness project which will engage students, faculty, staff, and facility operations staff. This includes Energy Education and Engagement Strategies alongside external funding for Metering and Sub metering Plan and Implementation and Energy Management Information System (EMIS) and Dashboard Installation.

Lac Seul First Nation: Lac Seul First Nation will hire a Community Energy Advisor to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Henvey Inlet First Nation: Henvey Inlet First Nation will hire a Community Energy Liaison and create a Community Energy Committee to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Matawa First Nations Management: Alongside TREC Education, Matawa First Nations Management will implement Renewable Energy Capacity Building Workshops in 9 Matawa membership communities (2 per community, one at the school, and another 2 day Energy Forum in Thunder Bay). The workshops will target topics based on the needs of community with an emphasis on creating a better understanding of renewable energies and outlining potential projects in traditional territories.

Eagle Lake First Nation: Eagle Lake First Nation will hire a Community Energy Advisor to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Red Rock Indian Band: Red Rock Indian Band will hire a Community Energy Officer to implement their Community Energy Plan (CEP).

Ontario Waterpower Association (OWA): This initiative seeks to build on the successful outcomes of the “Enabling Remote First Nation Communities to Reduce Diesel Use Through Waterpower Development” project. It involves a deeper dive into key business and financial components and competencies needed to carry out community level waterpower development, which will include updated GIS maps and a three day workshop.

Local Authority Services (LAS): LAS seeks to develop and deliver a series of five full-day workshops at participating municipalities in order to provide regional staff with the knowledge, tools and resources necessary to implement an Employee Engagement and Energy Awareness Program (EEEAP). Under EEAAP, behavioural energy efficiency is utilized to bring about energy savings by changing the typical workplace culture through awareness and education.

Whitefish River First Nation: Whitefish River First Nation has created a Community Energy Plan (CEP) and will implement this by hiring a Community Energy Advisor, establishing a Community Energy Committee, using new computer software to understand and document current residential energy issues, and educating the community leadership and staff on a variety of energy topics.

MoCreebec Eeyoud: MoCreebec Eeyoud has completed a Community Energy Plan (CEP), and will implement this by completing energy audits and low-cost energy efficiency upgrades for housing units, building capacity for 6 energy auditors, improving capacity for households to understand and monitor consumption patterns, and reporting on conservation measures and alternative heating options.

Sustainable Eastern Ontario Network: Working with the City of Ottawa, Sustainable Eastern Ontario Network will implement a Municipal Target Audience strategy focusing on education and capacity building for the City of Ottawa council and staff. Educational presentations will be held for the Mayor’s office, the City Manager’s office, senior leadership teams, senior manager and key staff from all 10 City Departments. Topics will cover areas such as energy generation and consumption, energy efficiency, conservation and renewable generation. A Public Sector strategy will also focus on education and capacity building within the top 150 energy consumers and employers in the City of Ottawa.

Federation of Community Power Cooperatives: This initiative targets municipal leaders so that they have a good baseline knowledge and understanding of renewable energy, service delivery options, and approval processes when renewable energy projects are proposed in their communities. The objective is to pilot a short training module with municipal councillors and managers in Eastern Ontario. A short video and PowerPoint will be developed that each municipality can tailor to their own needs.

Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA): This is a two-part initiative which involves a research study to identify and assess the best practices from existing water efficiency programs in Ontario. A municipal eco-cluster or working group consisting of five municipalities (Region of Peel, City of Toronto, York Region, City of Guelph, and Region of Waterloo) will be developed to showcase these best practice projects along with the development of case studies that will be shared with other target audience municipalities and governmental stakeholders.

Bearskin Lake First Nation: Bearskin Lake First Nation has enrolled their Community Consultation Officer in the 20/20 Catalysts Program (a national Indigenous clean energy capacity building program) to gain the skills needed to enable the community to develop clean renewable energy. Ultimately, this training will maximize social and economic benefits for the community by reducing diesel reliance.

TREC Renewable Energy Co-op:  In cooperation with Clean Air Partnership, TREC Renewable Energy Co-op will mobilize community capital through a multi-phase initiative. The first phase, “Develop new Economic Models for Renewable Energy Co-Ops in a Post-FIT world”, will explore new business opportunities for RE Co-ops including community scale projects in the 500kW to 5MW range, financing energy efficiency retrofits, and acting as a local aggregator. The second phase, “Develop Municipality RE Co-op Partnerships”, will aim to facilitate new partnerships between RE Co-ops and Municipalities. The outcome is a model that will enable green energy partnerships and projects in a “post-FIT world”.

Georgina Island First Nation: This initiative will enable Georgina Island First Nation to hire a Community Energy Advisor as part of their Community Energy Plan (CEP). The Advisor would report to the community's newly developed Committee of Energy and Climate Change. The individual will assist the community in areas of energy education and conservation on an ongoing basis. This includes improving knowledge and understanding of energy use and its associated costs, implementing cost reduction strategies, and transitioning towards energy independence.

TREC Charitable Foundation: The initiative, Building Capacity and Skills for Aboriginal Renewable Energy Development with Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, will provide education, tangible skills and capacity development for community leaders, children, youth, Elders and other members of Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA). This will enhance their knowledge, awareness and participation in MCA’s goal to become a First Nation leader in reducing its carbon footprint by incorporating renewable energy technologies, energy conservation and micro-grid technologies.

Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation: Six Nations of the Grand River has enrolled their Community Consultation Officer in the 20/20 Catalysts Program. This is a three-phase skills and capacity building initiative designed to enhance the clean energy project development knowledge within the SNGRDC (and therefore the broader Six Nations community).

Mohawk Council of Akwesasne: This initiative is a three-phase skills and capacity building program designed to enhance the clean energy project development knowledge within the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. The initiative will see one individual from Akwesasne participate in the 20/20 Catalysts Program.

Thessalon First Nation: Having completed a Community Energy Plan (CEP), Thessalon First Nation will implement actions and initiatives towards their goals. These goals include reducing energy costs through education, supporting sustainable energy practices, transitioning towards energy independence, and providing support for future funding programs. A Community Energy Advisor will be hired as part of the initiative.

QUEST: This initiative will support regional planning priorities along with local community energy planning and projects, as a means to respond to peak demand reduction, enhance system reliability and cost effectiveness and reduce overall energy use. The project objectives will support planning alignment sessions in three (3) planning regions of interest to the IESO and draw on the results of the planning alignment sessions to prepare a Planning Alignment Primer - a report to identify the structure and best practices for alignment between municipalities, utilities, and the IESO.

Canadian Biogas Association: Given the new and innovative nature of renewable natural gas (RNG) and the lack of familiarity of this fuel in the marketplace, this initiative will bring together a range of stakeholders to build understanding of the opportunities with RNG and the path forward. The Canadian Biogas Association will connect stakeholders and develop RNG tools and targeted communications for municipalities with respect to renewable natural gas.

Chapleau Cree First Nation: This initiative will educate community members in the East Lake Superior region about the Regional Energy Strategy developed by the Northeast Superior Regional Chiefs Forum. This strategy identifies specific opportunities as they relate to education, transportation, climate change, pursuing funding programs, natural resource development management of potential energy resources, conservation, economic development, and energy project development.

Pembina Institute: The Pembina Institute will work with Kasabonika Lake First Nation community to create a Community Energy Advisor skill and training development program to develop a framework approach and toolkit that the community can use for engaging members in activities with outcomes that advance community energy planning and implementation.

Shibogama First Nations Council (First Nations Service Organization Inc.): FNSO Inc. will create an Aboriginal participation plan for the Wataynikaneyap transmission project and hold two related workshops attended by leadership or key representatives from the 20 First Nations partners. These workshops will help prepare the First Nation communities for connection to the IESO-controlled grid and for education to facilitate understanding of the requirements and regulatory processes to participate in a transmission project in Ontario.

Toronto Atmospheric Fund: This initiative will provide low cost initial energy audits to housing co-operatives, municipalities, public entities and Aboriginal communities, while also building education capacity about energy efficiency in buildings and conservation techniques. The results of this initiative will include reduced energy consumption and related greenhouse gas emissions, reduced costs for building owners, support for student employment in the field and increased data available to building owners, which will accelerate more retrofits in general. Increasing the accessibility of retrofits for building owners will also have a positive impact for the still growing commercial energy-efficiency sector, thereby supporting more green jobs in the province.

TREC Education: A comprehensive tool-kit will be created focused on  key energy opportunities being pursued in the province by First Nations, in particular energy planning, renewable energy development and energy conservation. This initiative addresses the capacity challenges and lack of coordinated knowledge sharing needed to grow successful participation of First Nations communities in energy projects around the province.

Trent University: Trent University will create a program that will give First Nation decision-makers the tools they need to understand energy education, conservation and generation in an in-depth manner, and engage both their own communities and business partners to create projects that are socially, sustainably and economically successful for the community itself and business partners. Outcomes for program participants include resume building, the creation of a professional network of program alumni and practical knowledge and tools to be used in future business partnerships. All participants will receive a Trent University endorsed certificate in Energy Management and Duty to Consult.

Waaskiinaysay Ziibi Inc. Development Corporation: Waaskiinaysay Ziibi Development Corporation is co-owned by five First Nation communities: Animbiigoo Zaagiigan Anishinaabek, Bingi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, Biinjitiwaabix Zaaging Anishinaabek, Red Rock Indian Band and Whitesand First Nation.

The initiative will prepare remote the First Nation communities for connection to the IESO-controlled grid and for education to facilitate understanding of the requirements and regulatory processes to participate in a transmission project in Ontario.

Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care, Fort Albany Power Corporation, Weeneebayko Area Health Authority: This initiative will focus on the education and capacity building of energy and facility management staff in the Fort Albany Power Corporation area, which will see the transferring of the capacity first to the WAHA health organization, and then the health care facilities served by local distribution companies on the west James Bay coast, and in other health care facilities across the far North.

Ontario Waterpower Association: This initiative is focused on building the confidence and capacity of communities (municipalities, cooperatives) to become actively engaged in new waterpower development at existing infrastructure as encouraged through the 2015 Feed-in Tariff Program (FIT 4.0).

Ontario Waterpower Association: This initiative is focused on building the capacity of remote First Nations communities to become proponents of, or economic partners in, waterpower development projects in anticipation of the extension of transmission per the IESO's Remote Communities Connection Plan.  Further, it seeks to advance the collaborative efforts made to date between the province, the OWA and the IESO with respect to identifying economically viable waterpower opportunities in reasonable proximity to diesel-dependent communities.

Quality Urban Energy Systems of Tomorrow (QUEST) and the Clean Air Partnership (CAP): The purpose of the initiative is to develop and deliver tools and resources to help Ontario municipalities, utilities and other community stakeholders to develop and implement Community Energy Plans (CEPs). The plans will directly support the Ministry of Energy's Municipal Energy Plan (MEP) program, Conservation First Framework, conservation / demand management and demand-side management, and the Independent Electricity System Operator's (IESO) Regional Electricity Planning program, as well as energy aspects of planning policies such as the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe.

Keewaytinook Okimakanak: Keewaytinook Okimakanak in partnership with five First Nations and Lakehead University will develop capacity building tools and materials to describe the function and benefits of solar PV in a manner relevant to community members living in remote First Nations in northwestern Ontario. Community energy planners in the five partnering First Nations will hold open houses to gather questions and gauge the understanding of renewable energy among their community members.

Algonquin College: Algonquin College proposes to undertake a progressive and innovative initiative focused on meeting the energy management needs and interests of two Aboriginal communities in eastern Ontario. The program will identify and train two community energy management advisors (EMAs), who will work with the communities on a wide and varied suite of energy management opportunities relevant and applicable to them.

Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs: The Solar Electricity Safety Training for Firefighters initiative is a training and educational program designed to prepare firefighters in Ontario to confidently and safely respond to emergencies involving solar electricity. It includes a comprehensive training program and handbook covering basic training required by every firefighter expected to respond to a solar electrical emergency. It also includes information that will help fire departments locate current solar installations in their municipalities and implement a standardized sticker identifying a solar installation in a building/facility, which will help in tactical considerations and potential hazards.

Summerhill Impact: SI has teamed up with two expert contractors from Ontario's Aboriginal energy sector to create a project that focuses on developing innovative strategies to increase the capacity of Aboriginal communities to participate in Save on Energy programs in northern Ontario.

TREC Renewable Energy Co-operative Education: The goal of this initiative is to develop and deliver a series of capacity building and energy literacy workshops co-developed with the Walpole Island First Nation (but will also serve as the foundation for a capacity and skills development program for other interested First Nations communities) to inform leaders and community members about the various energy-related programs available to them so they may make informed decisions about participating in and benefitting from them.

Community Power Fund: To develop guidebooks, project development maps, case studies and other resources to assist co-ops and other groups in participating the renewable energy sector.

Biogas Association Proposal: The development of resources, in-person training and first-hand exposure to existing biogas facilities to increase awareness and skills related to municipal biogas.

Quest and Clean Air Partnership: The development of an Ontario Energy Community of Practice (ECOP) that delivers training, knowledge and awareness to regions of Ontario with active regional energy plans with the intent of bringing municipalities together to support RE development.

Nipissing First Nation: To create a workforce education program to ensure community members have the necessary skills to develop, operate and maintain renewable energy projects for the long term.

City of Toronto: The development of a screening tool to identify possible sites for ground mount solar PV in the city of Toronto.

TREC Renewable Energy Co-operative and Federation of Community Power Co-operatives: To create workshops for renewable energy co-op development, business planning, modelling, partnership development, and member management that will promote education and skills development.     

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority: The development of a solar PV commissioning curriculum and an operating and maintenance curriculum that is available through a web-based e-learning format free of charge to the public.

Faith and the Common Good: To reinvigorate the participation of Ontario faith-based communities in the renewable energy sector as participation has slowed over the last couple of years. Includes updates to existing suite of comprehensive resources as well as development of new educational resources designed to increase awareness and involvement.

Ottawa Renewable Energy Co-op & Sustainable Eastern Ontario: Create an online campaign and in-person workshops across Eastern Ontario to share information about renewable energy and co-op ownership and models. 

Confederation College: Develop a study to quantify the benefits as well as capital and operating costs of biomass in communities in northwestern Ontario and create a template of best practices.

Shibogama First Nations Council: Develop a three-day energy conference including workshops, participatory sessions, presentations and training with a Northern Ontario focus on topics such as RETScreen analysis, success stories in remote First Nation communities and technology awareness.

Algonquins of Pikwanagan and Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve: The development of EarthKeepers, an online collaborative platform by Aboriginal Communities for Aboriginal Communities, to increase education and awareness, facilitate collaboration, and build capacity and skills related to renewable energy.