Anahim Lake is a remote community in BC's chil Coten region, reliant on diesel for power and heat.
The penina Institute advocates for clean and reliable energy for all communities in BC.
Remote communities have historically used expensive and polluting diesel fuel for energy.
The elcho First Nation is investing in a first nation-owned solar panel farm for reliable clean energy.
The solar panel farm will reduce diesel reliance by 65% and contribute to economic development.
Why is transitioning to clean energy important for Anahim Lake?
—Transitioning to clean energy reduces reliance on expensive and polluting diesel fuel, promotes sustainability, and improves economic development.
How will the solar panel project benefit the elcho First Nation?
—The solar panel project will provide reliable clean energy, create jobs in construction, and generate revenue for the elcho First Nation.
What are the limitations of solar power?
—Solar power cannot meet 100% of the energy needs, but it improves energy security and reduces costs for off-grid communities.
Who is funding the solar panel farm project?
—The solar panel farm project is funded by federal and provincial governments, with an estimated cost of $30 million.
When will the solar panel farm be operational?
—Shovels are expected to be in the ground by August, and the solar panel farm will be up and running by fall 2025.
00:01Anahim Lake is a remote community in BC's chil Coten region, reliant on diesel for power and heat.
00:12Remote communities have historically used expensive and polluting diesel fuel for energy.
01:19The elcho First Nation is investing in a first nation-owned solar panel farm for reliable clean energy.
01:34The elcho energy corporation signed an electricity purchase agreement with BC Hydro to transition off diesel.
02:01Solar power improves energy security and reduces costs for off-grid communities.
02:38The solar panel farm will be located on land that was once home to the elcho First Nation's Sawmill.
02:54The solar panel farm project is estimated to cost about $30 million, with funding from federal and provincial governments.
03:18Shovels are expected to be in the ground by August, and the solar panel farm will be up and running by fall 2025.
