EMPOWERING INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES

ENERGY SAVINGS THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS

Energy efficiency is a powerful tool for sustainable growth and environmental stewardship. Through our First Nation Energy Efficiency Program, we work with First Nation communities to support their energy efficiency goals, and ultimately, reduce overall community energy use. 

ACHIEVING GOALS TOGETHER

Our First Nation Energy Efficiency Program partners with communities to create a plan that helps everyone save energy and money. We offer free energy efficiency upgrades such as insulation, LED light bulbs, smart thermostats, and more. In addition to free upgrades, we provide ongoing technical support. Communities can rely on our team of experts to support them in achieving their energy efficiency goals. We’ll help you identify a labour solution and have everything installed by the contractor of your choice or community members — we’ll even provide training if you need it. 

SKOWNAN FIRST NATION’S SUCCESS STORY

Skownan First Nation has been exploring the energy-saving opportunities available to them. This initiative has made it easier to access energy-saving solutions, which will allow the community to save energy now and into the future. 

They plan to make various upgrades throughout their community, such as increasing the insulation R-value in the attics of homes and commercial buildings and upgrading to ENERGY STAR® certified triple pane windows. 

Skownan First Nation has also launched their first “outsulation” pilot project. Mineral wool has been added to the exterior of the house, creating a thermal break, which reduces heat loss through the studs in the wall assembly and ensures durability of the structure. Rain screen principles were also applied, further increasing the durability of the home and longevity of the siding. Iain Geeves, Efficiency Manitoba’s Indigenous Programs Technical Advisor, attended the build for three days, providing direction and hands-on labour while working alongside local trades, helping to increase construction expertise in the community. 

“By working shoulder-to-shoulder with local tradespeople, we’re not just improving one home — we’re working towards building the capacity for Skownan to replicate these high-performance retrofits across the community. That kind of local expertise leads to greater potential for long-term savings and resilience in the built environment.”
— Iain, Indigenous Programs Technical Advisor

Skownan First Nation’s efforts will reduce the building energy consumption by 24% and save an estimated $520 annually on energy bills. These substantial upgrades will make this climate-resilient home more resistant to mould and water-related issues, making it healthier and more comfortable to live in.