Manitoba First Nation enters partnership aimed at lowering community’s heating bills
Posted May 8, 2025 5:15 pm.
Last Updated May 8, 2025 7:20 pm.
A new partnership with a Manitoba First Nation northeast of Winnipeg is aiming to cut energy costs, train workers and invest millions directly into the province’s Indigenous communities.
This first phase begins in Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, where a $1.89 million investment from Efficiency Manitoba and nearly $7 million from Raven Outcomes will help launch a local energy company called BON Energy.
“The milestone we’re reaching today is not only about the reduction of that consumption, but also the creation of BON Energy, and what it will do for our community,” said Brokenhead Ojibway Nation Chief Gordon Bluesky. “Because once we are successful with these installations, our hopes is to move on and help other communities expanding this project.”
Funds will pay for the installation of 100 ground-source heat pumps in the community and other home upgrades aimed at lowering heating bills, improving energy use and providing a better living experience for those in the community.
“With the hot summers we’re having, I know this will be something our members and our elderly will enjoy,” Chief Bluesky said.
“What we are trying to do is not only look at the efficiency of the home but make these homes last as long as possible as well.”
The project includes training for a dozen community members to install and maintain these systems, with hopes that the skills stay in the community long term.
“Knowing I can heat houses within the community and do the maintenance myself, 3 a.m. in the morning you give me a call and I’ll be there,” said Colby Bruyere, a BON Energy trainee.
This partnership is also expected to grow, with Efficiency Manitoba making a province-wide call for other First Nations interested in joining.
“We are talking to First Nations all the time and I expect this announcement will create more interest with those partners we have,” said Colleen Kuruluk, the CEO of Efficiency Manitoba.
The program is expected to run until 2029.
