10 years ago, the Val-Jalbert mini power plant was commissioned. To this day, this project represents the example to follow of the community energy model. It was this model that was chosen by Onimiki Renewable Energy’s partners to develop the Témiscamingue hydroelectric project.
At the time, the community of Mashteuiatsh had approached the neighboring MRCs of Maria-Chapdelaine and Domaine-du-Roy to create an innovative partnership to jointly develop energy projects on its territory. The municipality of Chambord then joined the partners to form the company Énergie hydroélectrique Ouiatchouan S.E.C.
The Val-Jalbert mini-power plant is the concrete expression of a vision of harmonious development in its environment. Several consultations were held at the time to ensure successful integration into the historic site of the Village historique de Val-Jalbert, in line with the values of the partners. These 100 % community-based projects generate significant spin-offs for the partners.
An inspiring example for Onimiki Renewable Energy
Onimiki Renewable Energy is inspired by the example of the Val-Jalbert mini power plant to propose a project that will integrate harmoniously into the host environment, and that will be rigorously documented.
This is one of the reasons why Kebaowek First Nation, Wolf Lake First Nation and the MRC de Témiscamingue called on the community of Mashteuiatsh (Pekuakamiulnuatsh Takuhikan) to join the project and share the expertise it has developed over the past few years.
The project is still under development, and several stages remain to be completed. Environmental, social and economic concerns are being taken into account to develop a promising project that will benefit First Nations and all Temiscamingue citizens.
A video was produced to mark the 10th anniversary. Short and long versions are available below. English and French subtitles are available by clicking on the Youtube Settings button.
To find out more about the10thanniversary of the commissioning of the Va-Jalbert mini-center, click here.