The Owl River Métis Community and Culture Pathway Development Corp. has signed a Solar Power Plans and Land Development Agreement.The partnership will allow Culture Pathway Development Corp. to provide expertise in planning future renewable power developments. At the forefront of these developments are three solar power plants, with capacities of 5 MW, 20 MW and 40 MW, all of which will generate clean, renewable energy while promoting environmental stewardship and energy independence. These projects have been carefully planned to align with all provincial regulations and are located outside the newly designated “buffer zones.”A joint press release called the development a "bold step forward to ensure job creation, sustainability, economic empowerment and the preservation of Métis culture."Charlie Chen, CEO of Culture Pathway Development Corp. called the project "visionary."“Together, we’re demonstrating that renewable energy is about more than just reducing emissions — it’s also about creating vibrant, self-reliant communities. Our approach ensures every development integrates cutting-edge technology with community needs, proving that sustainability and progress go hand in hand," Chen said.Future renewable energy projects will feature self-sustaining solar operations, energy storage and green hydrogen production to establish long-term energy solutions for the community. This includes:Hydroponic agriculture: solar powered vegetable factories with geothermal heatingData Centres: Renewable energy powered facilities to support AI and blockchain technologyGreen Hydrogen Production: providing clean energy solutions for storage and transportationThe Owl River Métis Community prioritizes the education and support of developing sustainable energy solutions for the future through the three pillars of employment, education and business opportunities.“This partnership is more than a project, it’s a blueprint for a brighter, more sustainable future,” says Jack Quintal, President of the Owl River Métis Community. “By merging traditional values with modern innovation, we’re creating community-centred opportunities for today and a legacy for tomorrow.”Some community-centered growth expected as a result of the project include tourism and entertainment, education and training, affordable housing and electric vehicle infrastructure.The Owl River Métis Community is situated on the north shores of Lac La Biche, where the Owl River meets the lake. The community has called this area home since the 1800s and many Métis families continue to live there today. Established in 2000, the governance structure works alongside the community to foster a greener and healthier future.Culture Pathway is a solar project developer specializing in community solar, utility solar and solar & energy storage. Its mission is to empower communities through innovative solar and sustainable land development solutions. We aim to harness the power of renewable energy to create self-sustaining ecosystems that integrate cutting-edge technologies like data centers, agrivoltaics, and hydrogen production. "By championing innovation and collaboration, we aspire to build a legacy of self-reliant, net-zero communities that inspire generations to come," the company explains.
