Watch the full recording of our Advancing Energy Security in Indigenous Communities webinar, where we explored the critical issue of energy poverty in Indigenous communities.
In this session, you will hear from Indigenous leaders about the daily challenges faced by many communities, from unreliable heating to the high costs of alternative energy sources. Our discussion, rooted in the findings of The Other Energy Security: Addressing Energy Poverty in Canada’s Indigenous Communities, highlights the urgent need for policy action to ensure all Canadians have access to affordable, reliable energy.
“Our nation has made it clear that access to natural gas is a priority. Families in our community are struggling with the high cost of propane, electric heating, and even wood, while surrounding communities have access to affordable natural gas. It’s time for Indigenous communities to have the same comfort, safety, and cost savings that others take for granted.”
Christine Longjohn, Chief, Sturgeon Lake First Nation
“Energy poverty is the new water. Over 60% of household energy use in First Nations is for heating, and many families face impossible choices—paying their power bill or putting food on the table. We need direct federal investment in natural gas infrastructure so communities can have affordable, reliable energy and a real chance at economic prosperity.”
Guy Lonechild, President and CEO, First Nations Power Authority
“This conversation is about fairness. Indigenous communities should not have to wait for solutions while struggling with unreliable and unaffordable energy. We need to break down policy barriers and allow communities to choose the energy solutions that work best for them—whether that’s natural gas, renewables, or other reliable options.”
Shannon Joseph, Chair, Energy for a Secure Future
Explore findings further!
Take a closer look at the data! Our fact sheet, Natural Gas Service in First Nations Reserves – Data by Province & Cost Difference Snapshot, provides a closer look at energy access challenges and disparities.
Dive deeper into the findings with our report The Other Energy Security: Addressing Energy Poverty in Canada’s Indigenous Communities
