Indigenous Community, Dokis First Nation, marks ten years of hydroelectric power plant construction

The Dokis First Nation, located on the French River in Ontario, is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Okikendawt hydro station. This significant milestone was marked by a ceremony attended by Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige, as well as the current President and CEO of FirstLight Energy, Justin Trudell.

FirstLight Energy, an independent power producer, took over the Okikendawt project after purchasing HydroMega in 2023. The $48 million, 10-megawatt station, which powers 3,000 homes in Ontario, has been in operation for a decade, and FirstLight Energy plans to generate power from the Okikendawt station for over 100 years, as long as they continue to put capital into it.

The Dokis First Nation owns 40% of the Okikendawt hydro station, and the partnership between the First Nation and FirstLight Energy was one of the first in Ontario for First Nation and independent power producers. This partnership has been a success, and both parties are looking at other projects in conjunction with each other.

In 2021, a trust was established to manage the revenue from the dam for community projects. As of this spring, the trust has approved 27 projects in the community valued at $695,000. The projects fall under three categories: community infrastructure, economic development, and health and welfare.

To further strengthen the relationship between FirstLight Energy and the Dokis First Nation, FirstLight is launching a scholarship for Dokis First Nation post-secondary students. The scholarship, which will be offered for the next three years, will provide five students with $1,000 each, recognizing their creativity, vision, and commitment to the community.

In addition, a community-wide logo design contest was launched to represent the spirit, history, and partnership of the Okikendawt station. The winning logo will become the new symbol for the project.

The success of the Okikendawt hydro dam project has inspired many First Nation communities in Ontario, who want to partner with the energy sector on similar initiatives. FirstLight Energy officials believe that Ontario needs to expand its renewable energy sector through solar, wind, and battery storage projects.

FirstLight Energy's President and CEO, Justin Trudell, expressed his desire to replicate its partnership with the Dokis First Nation with other Indigenous communities in Ontario. Duquette Jr., the President and CEO of FirstLight Energy, also stated his intention to continue to build a positive relationship with FirstLight Energy for decades to come.

The Okikendawt hydro station project is a testament to the power of collaboration between First Nations and independent power producers. It serves as a model for other communities looking to partner with the energy sector and harness the benefits of renewable energy.

Indigenous Community, Dokis First Nation, marks ten years of hydroelectric power plant construction