Fortis Inc. Wins Edison Award for Indigenous-Led Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission Project
- Fortis Inc. won the 2025 International Edison Award for the transformative Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission System project.
- The project, Canada's largest Indigenous-led initiative, cost approximately $1.9 billion and connects remote communities to Ontario's energy grid.
- Fortis Inc. is committed to sustainability, reducing carbon emissions by 6.6 million tonnes over 40 years through clean energy access.
Fortis Inc. Celebrates International Recognition for Indigenous-led Energy Project
Fortis Inc. receives the prestigious 2025 International Edison Award from the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) for its transformative Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission System. This recognition, awarded at the EEI’s annual conference in New Orleans, underscores Fortis' commitment to innovative energy solutions and community empowerment. The Wataynikaneyap project, which is hailed as Canada's largest Indigenous-led electricity initiative, was completed in May 2024 and signifies a monumental investment of approximately $1.9 billion. The project is a collaborative effort involving 24 First Nations communities, aimed at constructing an 1,800-kilometer (1,118-mile) transmission line that connects 17 rural and remote communities to Ontario’s energy grid through 22 substations.
The significance of the Wataynikaneyap project extends beyond mere infrastructure; it symbolizes a commitment to sustainability and reducing reliance on traditional diesel generation, which has been the mainstay for many remote communities. By providing access to clean and affordable electricity, the project is anticipated to lower carbon emissions by an estimated 6.6 million tonnes over the next 40 years. This substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions aligns with broader environmental goals and showcases Fortis Inc.'s proactive approach to combating climate change through community-focused energy solutions.
David Hutchens, President and CEO of Fortis Inc., expresses pride in receiving the Edison Award, highlighting the company’s dedication to its First Nations partners. He notes that the project not only enhances energy access but also empowers local communities, fostering economic development and sustainability. Pat Vincent-Collawn, interim President and CEO of EEI, commends Fortis for its leadership in delivering reliable and resilient clean energy solutions, reinforcing the company’s role in supporting underserved populations and promoting community-tailored energy initiatives.
In addition to the Edison Award, the Wataynikaneyap project sets a precedent for future energy initiatives in Canada, demonstrating how collaboration with Indigenous communities can lead to significant advancements in energy accessibility. Fortis Inc. continues to embody the values of partnership and sustainability, paving the way for similar projects across the nation.
The recognition of the Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission System not only highlights Fortis Inc.'s innovative solutions in the electricity sector but also reinforces the importance of Indigenous leadership in energy development. As the company looks to the future, it remains committed to nurturing relationships with local communities and addressing their energy needs in a sustainable manner.