Foresight Canada has joined forces with Amlamgog (Fort Folly First Nation) to launch the Amlamgog Community Microgrid Challenge, an initiative seeking scalable, renewable energy solutions to enhance local energy resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support economic self-sufficiency.
The initiative aims to develop a community-led microgrid that ensures stable and affordable electricity while serving as a model for Indigenous and remote communities across Canada. By integrating distributed energy generation and storage, the project will reduce dependence on the provincial grid, cut costs, and drive long-term sustainability.
Amlamgog has already demonstrated leadership in clean energy by installing solar panels on all commercial buildings and developing a Community Energy Plan in 2024. This plan identified key energy opportunities and revealed that the community’s total electricity consumption in 2023 was roughly 50% lower than the New Brunswick average.
The Microgrid Challenge represents the next step in Amlamgog’s decarbonization journey. The challenge provides a unique opportunity for innovators to collaborate with Amlamgog and develop cutting-edge energy solutions. The selected winner will:
- Present their proposal to Amlamgog’s Chief, Council, Band Administration, Elders, Youth, and community members.
- Showcase their solution at the 2025 Atlantic Indigenous-Led Energy Symposium.
- Partner with Amlamgog on the Indigenous Distributed Energy Demonstration Project.
This initiative extends beyond a typical competition, fostering deep collaboration, commercialization, and cleantech adoption. Amlamgog is committed to forming a lasting partnership with the winning innovator to create a resilient energy future.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Amlamgog First Nation to drive resilient, sustainable energy solutions that empower the community, set an example for others across Canada, and demonstrate the power of Indigenous-led innovation in building a self-sufficient future,” said Jeanette Jackson, CEO of Foresight Canada. “We look forward to meeting the innovators rising to this challenge and bringing forward bold solutions.”
Located in southeastern New Brunswick, Amlamgog is a Mi’kmaq community with approximately 140 registered members, including 60 residents living on-reserve. Established in 1840, the community has been at the forefront of progressive energy leadership, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and economic development.