'Namgis sign deal for power partnership

North Island Gazette
Mar 23 2006

Brookfield Power Corporation has inked an agreement with `Namgis First Nation for potential development of a run-of-river hydroelectric generation project on the Kokish River, says a press release from the 'Namgis

The project, which the partnership intends to bid into BC Hydro's 2006 Open Call for Power, is expected to generate up to 40 megawatts (MW) of green power on completion in late 2010.

"This partnership is a meaningful step for Brookfield Power as a developer of renewable sources of power," said Richard Legault, President and Chief Operating Officer of Brookfield Power. "We take great pride in working with the communities in which we operate. The relationship that we have established with the `Namgis First Nation will not only enhance the success of this project, but will also serve as a model for future partnerships to follow."

At a signing ceremony held Mar. 15 in Alert Bay, Brookfield Power presented Chief William Cranmer of the `Namgis First Nation with a $5,000 donation to the Lawrence Ambers Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Established in memory of the former band manager, the Fund recognizes Ambers' long commitment to the `Namgis administration and to community cultural issues. It provides funding for students of North Island Secondary School pursuing education at an accredited post-secondary institution.

"The ` Namgis have always derived prosperity from sustainable use of our traditional lands and resources," said Chief Bill Cranmer. "This partnership advances our traditional principles within the realities of modern economies. "The Kwagis project is one of several developing interests for the `Namgis that acknowledge our rights as we engage with governments in treaty talks."

Brookfield Power comprises the power generating, transmission, distribution and marketing operations of Brookfield Asset Management (formerly Brascan). Brookfield Power has developed and successfully operated hydroelectric power facilities, primarily in North America, for almost 100 years.

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