Ohsweken, Ontario – Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation (SNDC) and the County of Brant celebrated the opening of a 500 kilowatt (KW) rooftop solar project, – on Six Nations’ Oneida Business Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony October 2, 2015 demonstrating that Ontario is already on the path to building a 100% clean and sustainable energy system.
Construction on the project began in May and was completed on schedule by Brant Renewable Energy and their contractor Neighbourhood Electric. This kicks-off this year’s Green Energy Doors Open, a province-wide, showcase of individual, community and commercial sustainable energy projects organized and spearheaded by the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association.
Thousands are expected to attend the more than 150 sustainable energy sites across Ontario and see how energy is conserved and renewable energy is used (and sold) every day as well as new advancements in the sector. Please visit http://greenenergydoorsopen.
SNDC holds a 90% ownership stake in the project. Six Nations has worked diligently to create a strong professional and neighbourly partnership with the County of Brant, who will hold a 10% equity investment in the project. The development will generate 500 kilowatts of energy with 2,307 solar panels. Six Nations equity investment is expected to generate not less than $2.5 million dollars in consolidated net cash flow to the community over the next twenty years. This project has also led to direct employment of Six Nations members to complete the installation.
This is the first solar investment located within the Six Nations community sponsored by Six Nations Development Corporation and the Six Nations Elected Council. Chief Ava Hill said, “We are pleased to maximize the utility of land already developed at Oneida Business Park, this an opportunity to demonstrate our on-going commitment to clean energy, and a much needed source of revenue to help fund future community needs. We appreciate Brant County’s foresight in looking to Six Nations as an important partner within the region.” Brant County’s Mayor Ron Eddy said, “This partnership project is an excellent example of the economic, social and environmental benefits that can be created when two communities work together for the common good”. We look forward to future partnership opportunities with Six Nations.”