Indigenous Partnerships Drive Green Energy Hub Plans in Atlantic Canada

Indigenous leaders and industry partners gathered in Saint John this week for the Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium, highlighting a shift toward active First Nations ownership in the region's green energy sector. About 500 participants attended the event, which was organized by the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council to discuss evolving partnerships between Indigenous communities and the private sector. Karen Narvie, a band councillor at Eel River Bar First Nation (Ugpi’ganjig), spoke during a panel discussion about the transition from being a "tick on the box" in consultation processes to becoming equity partners. Narvie credited federal financing programs for enabling First Nations to secure long-term revenue streams and decision-making power in major developments. She noted that current projects, such as the transition at the Port of Belledune, align more closely with Indigenous environmental values. Eel River Bar and Pabineau First Nation (Oinpegitjoig) are currently collaborating with the Belledune Port Authority on a proposed green energy hub. The initiatives include a new wood pellet plant—a joint venture between the two First Nations, Arbec Forest Products, and Quebec-based Airex Energy. Additionally, the communities are exploring the potential for a battery plant and a small nuclear reactor (SMR) facility that could eventually export technology globally. Pabineau Chief Terry Richardson expressed enthusiasm for the economic potential of these projects, emphasizing their role in securing the future for the next seven generations. According to CBC News, Richardson believes these clean energy developments will provide high-paying jobs and opportunities for youth to remain in the region while protecting the environment. Jennifer Cleversey Moffitt of the Belledune Port Authority joined the leaders in Saint John to affirm the importance of meaningful engagement in these transformative regional projects.