The Government of Canada this month announced nearly $2 million in federal support to help the communities of La Plonge and Poplar House District in northern Saskatchewan develop of a state-of-the-art smart micro-grid.
“Clean energy projects in rural communities like this one at La Plonge are enhancing the reliability of our local energy grid, lowering energy costs, and creating jobs in our region, all while lowering emissions and safeguarding the environment,” stated Buckley Belanger, who serves as Secretary of State for Rural Development.
The project, to be led by clean energy provider Aurora Renewables, will integrate solar power and battery storage—and utilize digital twin technology—to improve grid stability and increase renewable energy generation in the remote region.
“By combining solar power, battery storage, and advanced technologies, the La Plonge and Poplar House District smart micro-grids will enhance energy resilience and security for northern communities while supporting local economic growth,” remarked federal Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson.
Funded through Natural Resources Canada’s Energy Innovation Program, the project is fully owned by English River First Nation through the Des Nedhe Group, which co-owns Saskatoon-based Aurora alongside Extropic Energy.
Jonathan Palmer, who functions as Vice-President of Aurora Renewables, says that the company is “proud to bring advanced clean energy solutions to the communities of La Plonge and Poplar House District in partnership with English River First Nation.”
Sean Willy, chief executive officer of the Des Nedhe Group, says the project “represents years of work toward taking charge of our own energy future.”
“Thanks to this collaboration and commitment, we are bringing the La Plonge Solar and Battery Energy Storage System to life,” Willy stated.
Palmer suggests that the project “provides a replicable model that can be scaled and adapted to strengthen energy security in other communities across Canada.”
Aurora Renewables was established in 2023.