DUCHESS, Alberta — May 22, 2025
A landmark clean energy initiative is taking shape in southern Alberta as Cold Lake First Nations (CLFN) proudly announces majority ownership in the 19.8-megawatt Duchess Solar project. The facility, expected to supply over 7,000 homes with clean electricity, represents a major step forward in Indigenous economic reconciliation and energy leadership.
Backed by a combined $48.1 million in financing, the project is being developed in partnership with Elemental Energy and supported by the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB), Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation (AIOC), Selkirk Advisory Group, and Equitable Life of Canada.
Cold Lake First Nations secured its majority position through a $21 million Indigenous Community Infrastructure Initiative loan and a $5.2 million Indigenous Equity Investment loan from the CIB. An additional $21 million project finance loan—substantially guaranteed by AIOC—was arranged by Selkirk and funded by Equitable Life.
The solar farm, featuring nearly 50,000 photovoltaic panels, is expected to create over 100 jobs during construction, with additional employment opportunities during ongoing operations and maintenance. Beyond clean energy, the project promises long-term revenue generation for CLFN, which can be reinvested into community programs and economic development.
“This project reflects Cold Lake First Nations’ vision of clean energy leadership and community prosperity,” said Chief Kelsey Jacko. “We are proud to partner with Elemental Energy and deeply grateful for the commitment shown by our financial partners. This is economic reconciliation in action.”
Leaders from across the country have praised the innovative financing model and Indigenous-led ownership. Canada Infrastructure Bank CEO Ehren Cory emphasized that the combination of public and private capital ensures meaningful, long-lasting benefits for Indigenous communities.
The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, also applauded the partnership: “With Cold Lake First Nations at the helm, Duchess Solar marks another critical step toward building an inclusive, sustainable economy.”
Chana Martineau, CEO of AIOC, called the project “a powerful example of Indigenous communities steering their economic futures,” while Rajan Sawhney, Alberta’s Minister of Indigenous Relations, highlighted its role in supporting local economies and Alberta’s broader energy transition.
The Duchess Solar project builds on the growing momentum of Indigenous participation in Canada’s energy future. It’s a model of creativity, collaboration, and shared prosperity—powered by the sun and driven by Indigenous leadership.
Read the full release here: clfns.com/download/final-duchess-solar-news-release/?wpdmdl=13793&refresh=682f40da734ea1747927258
For more information:
Canada Infrastructure Bank | Cold Lake First Nations | Elemental Energy
Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation | Selkirk Advisory Group | Equitable Life of Canada