Two proposed stations – Nine Mile Rapids and Grand Rapids – could generate a combined 430MW of electricity.
The projects address the anticipated 81% increase in electricity demand in Northern Ontario by 2050. Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines, highlighted the significance of hydroelectric power, stating: “For more than a century, nearly a quarter of Ontario’s power has come from clean hydroelectric energy. As energy demand rises in Ontario, especially in the North, our government is taking action by supporting early development work for the province’s first expansion of large-scale hydroelectricity in decades.”
TTN and MCFN are leading the co-planning process, partnering with the province and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to conduct initial studies and assessments. Chief Bruce Archibald of Taykwa Tagamou Nation emphasized the community-driven approach, saying: “This co-planning process represents a new approach – one that puts First Nations in the driver’s seat from the beginning. True economic reconciliation means that we are not just participating in development. We’re shaping it, on our terms, for the benefit of our communities while supporting the province’s work to meet rising demand for electricity.”
Chief Peter Wesley of Moose Cree First Nation echoed this sentiment, stating: “Moose Cree First Nation supports our work with Taykwa Tagamou Nation and the Co-Planning Committee to explore potential future water-power development within the Moose River Basin. This collaborative effort aims to meet the power needs of Ontario while respecting the interests of both communities and building upon our partnership with OPG on the Lower Mattagami River Project.” Letters of Intent signed by TTN, MCFN, and OPG outline commitments to preliminary planning.
Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, underscored the broader goals, saying: “This tremendous opportunity with Taykwa Tagamou Nation and Moose Cree First Nation is proof positive of our government’s commitment to building meaningful community and economic partnerships in the spirit of reconciliation.” The projects align with efforts to create jobs and promote sustainable energy.
MPP George Pirie highlighted local benefits, noting: “This is an exciting moment for Timmins, as these large-scale hydroelectric generation stations will provide a reliable source of electricity for Northeastern Ontario and beyond.” These stations would mark Ontario’s first new hydroelectric facilities in a decade, complementing OPG’s $4.7 billion refurbishment of existing stations to secure over 5,000MW of clean energy.
