The Ontario government announced a $10 million increase to the Indigenous Energy Support Program (IESP) -a 66% boost over last year- bringing the program’s annual funding to $25 million. This expanded investment reflects a significant policy shift that the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) has long advocated for: empowering Indigenous communities as partners and leaders in Ontario’s clean energy future.
Ontario’s electricity demand is projected to increase 75% by 2050. Meeting the additional need requires not only new generation and transmission infrastructure, but also a fundamental commitment to equity, resilience, and reconciliation.
The IESP provides funding for Indigenous communities to:
- Plan and build energy projects that deliver affordable, clean, and reliable power.
- Transition away from diesel reliance through new generation and transmission infrastructure.
- Partner on emerging technologies such as battery storage and renewable microgrids.
- Access skills training and energy champions who bring knowledge and capacity directly into communities.
This year’s expansion also introduces a new funding stream of up to $500,000 per project for diesel-reliant communities, accelerating the transition to sustainable energy systems while lowering carbon emissions.
From equity partnerships in five new transmission lines to solar-powered microgrids, like the one underway with the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, Indigenous-led projects are reshaping Ontario’s energy landscape.
This policy win is a direct recognition of what OSPE and its task forces have consistently advocated for. Reconciliation and inclusion must be built into Ontario’s energy future at every stage; from planning and design to equity participation and project delivery.
OSPE has championed policies that:
- Expand opportunities for Indigenous equity partnerships in energy infrastructure.
- Advance the integration of low-carbon, resilient technologies into Ontario’s grid.
- Ensure that engineers are central in building sustainable, community-driven energy solutions.
The expanded IESP represents progress on all three fronts. It provides a framework where engineers can collaborate with Indigenous partners to design projects that are not only technically sound, but also socially just and environmentally sustainable.
Looking Ahead
Applications for IESP funding are now open, with a deadline of October 3, 2025. OSPE encourages Indigenous communities, municipalities, and engineering firms to work together to bring forward projects that:
- Support the transition off diesel,
- Demonstrate innovation in clean energy technologies, and
- Deliver lasting economic and social benefits.
By aligning engineering expertise with Indigenous leadership, Ontario is taking an important step toward building an energy system that is affordable, secure, clean, and reliable, and rooted in reconciliation.
OSPE will continue to advocate for policies that create opportunities for engineers to support community-led projects and ensure Ontario’s energy future is built on the principles of equity, resilience, and sustainability.
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