Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation partners with Bullfrog Power and becomes the first independent power producer in the Northwest Territories

Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation partners with Bullfrog Power and becomes the first independent power producer in the Northwest Territories

Thursday May 26, 2016

Landmark development in partnership with Bullfrog Power helps Lutsel K’e reduce its reliance on fossil fuels

Lutsel K’e, NT—Today Bullfrog Power®, Canada’s leading green energy provider, and the Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation (LKDFN) are announcing the launch of a solar project that will assist the community’s transition from fossil fuels to clean, pollution-free renewable power. Bullfrog Power provided a grant to the LKDFN that helped to make the solar project a reality for the community.

A remote community, Lutsel K’e is located east of Yellowknife on the Northwest Territories’ Great Slave Lake. Because the LKDFN owns the solar array, they were able to negotiate a power purchase agreement with Northwest Territories Power Corporation. That agreement gives the LKDFN the distinction of becoming the first independent power producer anywhere in Canada’s northern territories. Being the first independent power producer in the Northwest Territories is significant because the LKDFN is now the first non-government entity to generate electricity and reap the economic benefits on behalf of the people who live in the community.

In addition, the LKDFN Band Council approved a green reserve fund that will direct savings resulting from the solar array toward future green initiatives.

“This project recognizes that there is a more sustainable path open to communities across Canada, particularly in northern communities that rely on diesel generators,” said Agatha Laboucan, SAO/Band Manager, LKDFN. “The solar array, which is generating both power and jobs, demonstrates the latest in solar technology and our role as responsible stewards of the natural environment.”

The 35 kW project, which consists of 144 solar panels, will help the LKDFN to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. A symbol of the transition to cleaner forms of energy, the solar array is built on repurposed land that had previously been used as a diesel fuel tank storage site.

“The Lutsel K’e solar project is an inspiring example of how Bullfrog Power’s customers are able to effect meaningful change and demonstrate the viability of green energy solutions across Canada,” said Ron Seftel, CEO, Bullfrog Power. “And by supporting the first independent power producer in the north, Bullfrog Power continues to be at the forefront of the renewable energy movement in Canada.”

As part of its work as a social enterprise, Bullfrog Power provides financial support for the development of new green energy projects across Canada. The Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation project is the latest in Bullfrog Power’s work with First Nations communities. Recent Bullfrog Power Projects with First Nations include a partnership with Montana First Nation in Alberta as well as the construction of a solar project with the Kitasoo/Xai’Xais First Nation in Klemtu, British Columbia.

About Bullfrog Power
Bullfrog Power, Canada’s leading green energy provider, offers renewable energy solutions that enable individuals and businesses to reduce their environmental impact, support the development of green energy projects in Canada and help create a cleaner, healthier world. As a Certified B Corporation, Bullfrog Power meets higher standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Thousands of individuals and businesses in Canada are doing their part to address climate change and air pollution by choosing green energy with Bullfrog Power. Sign up easily, quickly and affordably at bullfrogpower.com.

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About the Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation
Perched on the shore of the East Arm of Great Slave Lake, Lutsel K’e is the gateway to Thaidene Nene, and the home of the Lutsel K’e Denesoline. A warm and nurturing community of 350, Lutsel K’e has a small airport and a summer marina, making it accessible year-round.

Contact Bullfrog Power
Jon McKay
Corporate Communications Manager
416.360.3464 ext 239
jon.mckay@bullfrogpower.com

Contact the Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation
Agatha Laboucan
SAO / Band Manager
867.370.7004
sao@lutselke.com