Wicehtowak Solar

The CIB is loaning $42 million towards Wicehtowak Solar, a 32.4 MW sustainable energy development near Bethune, Saskatchewan. 

The project is led by George Gordon First Nation’s economic development corporation George Gordon Development Limited, marking the CIB’s first 100% First Nation-led clean power loan. It advances meaningful economic reconciliation as well as creates direct employment and training opportunities for community members in the renewable energy sector.

Wicehtowak Solar will deliver 32.4 MW of renewable energy, supplying power to the Saskatchewan grid and delivering energy directly to the nearby K+S Potash Canada mine.

The project will be under a 30-year virtual power purchase agreement with Saskatchewan Power Corporation’s Renewable Access Service program.

Benefits of the CIB’s involvement

Through the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Initiative, we are investing in projects and partnerships which directly benefit Indigenous communities.

The CIB’s investment enables George Gordon First Nation to acquire full ownership of the project, creating a long-term revenue stream that supports self-determination, job creation and future economic development. Revenue from the solar farm is expected to be reinvested in agriculture, property development and renewable energy initiatives.

The new infrastructure also allows K+S Potash Canada to benefit from a secure, sustainable energy source which will support its long-term energy needs and growth plan of the potash mine.