Remote First Nation begins alternative energy planning

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Barging oil into hamlets nestled in remote fjords along the BC coast is costly—to both communities and the environment. With oil prices soaring, the Hesquiaht First Nation, located in Hot Springs Cove, is creating a community energy plan with the goal of reducing their energy consumption and their dependence on fossil fuels.

 

The Hesquiaht are located at the northern most end of Clayoquot Sound accessible only by boat or float plane. 100 people permanently live in the community. Big plans are afoot to build more housing, create new economic development initiatives, and attract more Hesquiaht members back home in the coming years.

In June 2007, Ecotrust Canada signed a protocol agreement with the Hesquiaht Nation to assist them with their economic development planning. In 2008, we began work to explore energy solutions. The community’s electricity, produced by a diesel-powered generator, is expensive and environmentally damaging.

In 2008, with the help of the Pembina Institute, Ecotrust Canada engaged the community in energy planning, including a study of how energy is used in houses and commercial buildings. Equipment was installed to monitor the potential for wind, wave and run-of-the-river energy. By 2009, Pulse Energy would join the project to look at ways to improve the grid's efficiency. As of 2010, the community is contemplating its options for an integrated energy system and plan, continuing its parntership with Ecotrust and now First Power.

 


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