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Ten First Nations in the Rainy River District have joined forces to launch the Wanagekong-Biiwega’iganan Clean Energy Corporation.
The new corporation aims to transform wood waste into low-carbon fuels.
The First Nations forming the corporation include:
- Anishinaabeg of Naongashiing
- Big Grassy
- Couchiching
- Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation
- Mitaanjigamiing
- Naicatchewenin
- Nigigoonsiminikaaning
- Onigaming
- Rainy River First Nations
- Seine River
The corporation is in the process of meeting with companies in the forestry industry like the Boundary Waters Forest Management Corporation, West Fraser OSB, Manitou Forest Products, and Nickel Lake Lumber, in hopes of securing local wood waste for a proposed biorefinery in Fort Frances.
Chief Janice Henderson of Mitaanjigamiing First Nation is serving as president of the new organization.
She also serves as the president of the Boundary Waters Forest First Nations Clean Energy Corporation.
“Transportation companies, railways, airlines, and heavy truck operators are increasingly seeking low-carbon fuel sources to meet stricter emissions regulations,” explained Henderson. “Our proposed biorefinery could sustainably produce 20 million litres of low-carbon fuels annually using regional wood waste, offering both environmental benefits and competitive pricing for these sectors.”
The corporation is partnering with Vancouver-based Highbury Energy Inc.
Highbury is bringing patented technology to the table for the project.
