The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) has announced that it is again accepting proposals for the Aboriginal Community Energy Plan (ACEP) Program.

The Program will support Aboriginal participation in Ontario’s energy sector by providing up to $90,000 in funding to First Nation or Métis communities for local energy planning activities and the development of a Community Energy Plan; or $25,000 in funding to make updates to an existing Community Energy Plan. Remote communities are eligible for an additional $5,000 in funding.

This proposal-based program encourages the development of energy plans that identify the unique needs and interests of each First Nation and Métis community. A community energy plan is a comprehensive long-term plan to improve energy efficiency, reduce electricity consumption and assess opportunities for green energy solutions.

In May 2014, the OPA approved 22 proposals involving 29 participating Ontario Aboriginal communities, including remote, northern and southern First Nations.