Lighthouse Energy, a Toronto-based cleantech startup, has been named the winner of the Amlamgog Microgrid Innovation Challenge, a collaborative initiative led by Foresight Canada and the Fort Folly First Nation (Amlamgog). The win marks a major step toward advancing Indigenous-led clean energy innovation in Atlantic Canada.
Specializing in stabilizing electrical grids by harnessing unused renewable energy, Lighthouse Energy’s technology reduces electricity costs while increasing access to clean power. As the Challenge winner, the company will pitch its solution to the Fort Folly First Nation and contribute to the development of the Indigenous Distributed Energy Demonstration Project.
The project aims to reduce the community’s dependency on the provincial grid, lower emissions, and promote long-term energy sustainability. Lighthouse Energy will also present its innovation at the 2025 Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium.
“Our vision for this project is to create an open sandbox for innovation and creativity—a place where the community and youth can freely express themselves and have deep ownership,” said Lighthouse Energy founder Mujtaba Murad Khan. “This is our first gift to the protectors of this land, a seed that will help nourish and support a brighter tomorrow.”
The announcement comes as Indigenous communities across New Brunswick continue to lead on climate resilience. Many are investing in behind-the-meter generation, fleet electrification, EV charging infrastructure, and energy-efficient buildings. Fort Folly’s collaboration with Lighthouse Energy builds on that momentum.
“Congratulations to Lighthouse Energy on winning the Amlamgog Microgrid Innovation Challenge,” said Jeanette Jackson, CEO of Foresight Canada. “This collaboration with Fort Folly First Nation exemplifies a powerful step towards energy independence and reduced emissions. It also reflects the importance of reconciliation, economic empowerment, and community-led innovation.”
The Challenge was part of Foresight’s broader Innovation Challenge program, which connects cleantech innovators with buyers seeking sustainable solutions. Since its inception, the program has hosted more than 65 challenges to accelerate the adoption of clean technologies across sectors.
Lighthouse Energy’s hybrid power systems and micro data centres are designed to improve grid reliability while creating shared value for Indigenous communities. Their research-driven approach positions them as a unique player in Canada’s growing clean energy landscape.
With this new collaboration, Fort Folly First Nation continues to demonstrate leadership in sustainable energy development—laying the groundwork for a resilient, inclusive, and clean energy future.