Glooscap First Nation has developed an increasingly strong focus on renewable energy, transforming it from a community discussion point into a central pillar of its economic strategy.
Every few years, the community consults its members to determine where investments should be directed. In 2017, renewable energy emerged as one of the top three priorities for the first time. According to Michael Peters, CEO of Glooscap Ventures, this marked a turning point and served as a signal to begin exploring clean energy opportunities.
The journey began modestly with the installation of solar panels on a commercial building, aimed at reducing energy costs and lowering the community’s carbon footprint. Since then, both ambitions and community support have expanded significantly. In the most recent consultation, renewable energy ranked as the top investment priority.
Today, Glooscap is actively involved in multiple renewable energy initiatives across Nova Scotia, either as an investor or owner. Many of its community buildings and businesses have become energy self-sufficient through expanded solar installations. The Nation is now moving beyond sustainability to focus on renewable energy as a revenue-generating enterprise, seeking to make it a major component of its business portfolio alongside fisheries and gaming.
This leadership was formally recognized when the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) named Glooscap Ventures the Indigenous Clean Energy Company of the Year. CanREA senior director Jean Habel noted that Glooscap is well-positioned to play a key role in Canada’s energy transition.
Expanding Wind and Energy Storage Projects
Glooscap is currently a majority partner in two developing wind projects. While neither is operational yet, one project has secured an agreement to supply power to Nova Scotia Power for grid use, while the other will serve large consumers through the province’s Green Choice program.
The Nation is also part of the Wskijinu’k Mtmo’taqnuow Agency (WMA), a collective of all 13 Mi’kmaw nations. This agency holds majority ownership in two additional wind projects and several battery storage facilities, all currently in planning or development. WMA is also set to play a major role in the Nova Scotia–New Brunswick intertie, a critical component of the province’s clean energy strategy. The Nova Scotia Energy Board recently approved its financing structure, highlighting the project as a step toward economic reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
Beyond Profit: Protecting Values and the Environment
Glooscap Chief Sidney Peters emphasized that renewable energy development is about more than financial gain. While diversifying revenue has long been a priority, he stressed the importance of aligning new projects with Mi’kmaw values and environmental stewardship.
He stated that the community is committed to pursuing clean, responsible projects that respect the land and avoid environmental harm, ensuring that economic progress does not come at the expense of cultural and ecological integrity.
Government Support and Incentives
Indigenous ownership has become a recurring element in successful bids for Nova Scotia’s 2030 clean energy plan. At the federal level, targeted funding programs introduced by the Trudeau government have directed over $125 million toward Indigenous-led clean energy projects in the province, including those involving Glooscap.
The Carney government continues this approach by including Indigenous organizations in the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit, reinforcing long-term support for Indigenous participation in the energy sector. Additionally, the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) provides favourable financing to projects with Indigenous partnership or ownership, further encouraging collaboration.
CIB clean power director Sashen Guneratna highlighted the essential role of Indigenous communities, noting their valuable insights into sustainable project development.
Partnership and Shared Vision
SWEB Energy, Glooscap’s partner in its major wind projects, echoed the sentiment that collaboration goes beyond financial incentives. According to SWEB’s director of wind development, Jason Parise, First Nations should be central to the renewable energy transition when it aligns with their interests and vision.
Through strategic planning, strong leadership, and community-driven decision-making, Glooscap First Nation continues to demonstrate how renewable energy can serve as a powerful tool for both economic growth and environmental responsibility.
