Indigenous communities to purchase 40% equity ownership of Alberta Powerline

ATCO and Canadian Utilities Limited have announced that seven Indigenous communities— Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Bigstone Cree Nation, Gunn Métis Local 55, Mikisew Cree First Nation, by way of its business arm, the Mikisew Group of Companies, Paul First Nation, Sawridge First Nation and Sucker Creek First Nation— have entered into agreements to purchase a combined 40 per cent equity ownership in Alberta PowerLine (APL).

The 508-km transmission line, running from Wabamun, Alta., west of Edmonton, to Fort McMurray, is the longest 500-kV AC transmission line in Canada and was ranked among the top 50 infrastructure projects in Canada.

"Alberta PowerLine is a true Canadian success story, and an example for the world of how industry and Indigenous communities can work together to develop world-class energy infrastructure that benefits all constituents,” said Nancy Southern, chair and CEO of ATCO.

“We are very proud of the collaborative spirit which, over several years of planning, allowed us to complete the project without an Indigenous or NGO objection. We are also deeply appreciative of the cooperation and commitment from all of the Indigenous communities along the line, whose centuries-old culture, histories, and knowledge helped us in shaping the route.”

The sale is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2019, subject to receipt of regulatory approvals and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.