Decarbonizing Electricity and Decolonizing Power: Voices, Insights and Priorities from Indigenous Clean Energy Leaders

We recognize and respect the past and ongoing Indigenous stewardship and governance of the lands and waters we work within, as well as the vibrant spirit, culture and vision of all communities we work with and in. [...] Indigenous capacity must be developed and empowered to meet employment needs for entry- to senior-level positions — within communities as well as the private and public sectors — to fulfil a significant role in the transition to 100 per cent clean electricity in Canada by 2035 and in the associated workforce and economy. [...] Interviewees recognize the tensions that exist between the urgency in which GHG emissions must be drastically reduced to address the climate crisis and the time and effort required to redress and reimagine governance and decision-making structures that uphold and advance inherent, treaty and constitutional Indigenous rights. [...] Crown governments, corporations and utilities are called upon to facilitate and fund Indigenous engagement and interventions at regulatory and policy levels to address structural and institutional barriers and inequalities experienced by Indigenous communities and EDCs. [...] Indigenous capacity must be developed and power the Just Transition” empowered to meet employment needs for entry- to – Cole Sayers senior-level positions — within communities as well as the private and public sector — to fulfil a significant role in the transition to 100 per cent clean electricity in Canada by 2035 and in the associated workforce and economy.