This release was issued under a previous government.
L-R: Elder Gerald Meguinis, Councillor Ellery Starlight, Minister Feehan, Xakiji (Chief) Lee Crowchild, Tsuut’ina Nation.
Through Alberta’s Indigenous Energy Efficiency (Retrofit) Program, the Nation will receive a $2,156,686 grant that will be used to install a new ice plant in the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex. The ice plant, along with upgrades to the building’s water system, will help save the community as much as $89,000 per year in electricity and heating costs over the next 30 years.
“Tsuut’ina Nation has a long history of environmental leadership, and we are proud to support them in their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in their community. This grant is just one example of how communities can take action in addressing the effects of climate change and, at the same time, make life better for their members.”
“We were very pleased that the Government of Alberta, that shares our deep commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, has provided funding to ensure that this new Sportsplex will also be sustainable.”
The new Seven Chiefs Sportsplex will also serve as a community centre and recreation facility. In addition, the Nation hopes the facility can become a national training centre for Indigenous athletes.
Alberta’s Indigenous Energy Efficiency (Retrofit) Program is designed to help Indigenous communities reduce their energy costs and greenhouse gases. Tsuut’ina Nation is one of many Indigenous communities and organizations that will become more energy-efficient with support from the program.
This grant is part of $35 million in funding made available through the carbon levy in 2017-18. Panel discussions, dialogue with Indigenous leaders, workshops and feedback from two successful pilot programs helped inform the development of the programs.
These initiatives support the Alberta government’s commitment to implement the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.