Feds fund First Nations diesel power systems.

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development is spending $28.5 million to upgrade diesel power generating and fuel storage systems on 19 First Nation communities in Northern Ontario.

Federal Natural Resources Minster Greg Rickford announced the funding on May 19.

Diesel generating stations and tank projects are underway at Deer Lake, Fort Severn, Poplar Hill, Mishkeegogamang, and North Spirit Lake First Nations at a total cost of $16.4 million.

The government is spending more than $3 million to support fuel tank design projects in Attawapiskat, Kashechewan, Fort Albany, Mishkeegogamang, Sandy Lake, Weenusk, Eabametoong, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, and Wikwemikong First Nations.

More than $9 million has been spent in Poplar Hill, Pikangikum, Kasabonika Lake, Muskrat Dam, Mattagami, Webequie and Sachigo Lake First Nations.

The federal government said it's essential to upgrade or replace...