March 26, 2018 — Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (KZA)/Gull Bay First Nation (GBFN) and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) are co-developing a microgrid that will use solar, battery storage and grid technology to help reduce diesel use at KZA.

The microgrid will integrate renewable solar generation, battery storage and microgrid control technology with the diesel generators that currently supply the community. This project will reduce diesel use by approximately 110,000L per year.

“Through our NOHFC investment of $2.5 million in a sustainable microgrid power system, Gull Bay First Nation will reduce its dependency on diesel generators, which will benefit the health of residents, lead to job creation locally and a cleaner environment for everyone,” said Michael Gravelle, Chair of NOHFC and MPP Thunder Bay-Superior North.

OPG will manage the contractors and oversee the development, design, procurement, regulatory processes, construction, integration and commissioning of the microgrid.

Construction is expected to start Spring 2018 and finish by the end of the year. Once operational, KZA will own and operate the microgrid.