Company to provide renewable energy solutions to remote First Nations.

• Author: Kakepetum, Gerdi

A new renewable energy company to be run by First Nations for First Nations has received $2.7 million in FedNor funding to get up and running.

FedNor is providing $2,715,000 to create NCC Development Corporation LP, a renewable-energy micro-grid development company aimed at providing energy solutions for off-grid and remote First Nation communities.

NCC Development Corporation LP is a for-profit initiative of the Deer Lake, Fort Severn, Keewaywin, Poplar Hill, McDowell Lake, and North Spirit Lake First Nations.

The FedNor funding will enable the corporation, with the assistance of Canadian Solar Solutions Inc., to develop the structure of the organization, as well as its operational and technical capacity to work directly with First Nations and to ensure long-term, sustainable revenues.

NCC Development Corporation LP plans to roll out its renewable-energy solutions to off-grid and remote communities across Canada, many of which have diesel plants that are running at or near capacity. In addition, NCC will pursue business on international markets.

"This project...