The Penticton Indian Band will receive $40,000 from the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund for a feasibility study to explore wind and hydro energy projects.

The feasibility study will assess the possibility of establishing a small hydroelectric project at the Okanagan Lake Dam that would include a fish ladder to provide fish with access to the lake, as well as a wind project that is being considered to provide community power.

The financial and technical viability of both projects will be identified and recommendations made on how to best move ahead with further development. Future job opportunities could include construction, operation and maintenance.

Quotes:

Chief Jonathan Kruger, Penticton Indian Band –

“We’re very honoured to be awarded this grant to look into possible clean energy projects. Sustainability is part of our cultural values and we’re finding ways to do that with modern technology.”

Dan Ashton, MLA, Penticton −

“It’s great to see the Penticton Indian Band and the Province working together to develop these clean energy resources. They have the potential to provide social and economic benefits for band members while providing new and sustainable sources of hydro-electric power.”