Two different coalitions of Northeastern Ontario First Nations are bidding to build a key power transmission line between Wawa and Porcupine.
The Michipicoten, Chapleau Cree, and Missanabie Cree First Nations - as well as Taykwa Tagamou Nation - have created the "Transmission Infrastructure Partnerships 9" - TIP-9 - coalition to build the 260-kilometre, 230-kilovolt transmission line going through their traditional territories, with financial backing from American electric power provider Ameren, as well as private investment, though the coalition would maintain 50 per cent ownership of the line and have the opportunity to make that full ownership once financing obligations are met.
A rival bid has been announced, however, by the Wabun Tribal Council Chiefs, who say a developmental coalition including the Wabun First Nations of Mattagami, Brunswick House, Matachewan, Flying Post, and Chapleau Ojibwe will partner with Hydro One on a Transmission Infrastructure Partnership, which would also see them have a 50 percent equity stake in the line.
Both groups note that Indigenous communities have historically been "left out of the loop" on development in their traditional lands, and view their proposals as an opportunity for the provincial government to move forward on reconciliation.
The Independent Electricity System Operator's electricity plan for Northeast Ontario - released last October - identified the line as a key priority - along with lines from the Mississagi Transformer Station north of Thessalon to Hanmer's and another in Sault Ste. Marie - with the Wawa to Porcupine line to be in-service in 2030, though it's unclear when the IESO will move forward on the process for selecting a bidder and getting the line built.
