OWA Releases New Indigenous Guide to Waterpower Development to Support Community Participation and Partnership

Press Release

April 30, 2026 – Peterborough, ON – As Indigenous leaders, Nations, and project partners gather in Toronto for the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC) Annual Conference, the Ontario Waterpower Association (OWA) today released the Indigenous Guide to Waterpower Development, a new resource designed to support Indigenous communities in exploring opportunities within Ontario’s growing waterpower sector.

The release follows the Independent Electricity System Operator’s (IESO) recent launch of an initial “Long Lead Time” procurement and aligns with the FNMPC’s Conference focus on strengthening partnerships, supporting long‑term prosperity, and advancing practical strategies for Indigenous participation in major projects. The guide contributes to this dialogue by offering communities clear, accessible information about how waterpower development works and how they can be involved.

“Indigenous leadership and partnership are foundational to the future of waterpower in this province,” said Paul Norris, President of the OWA. “This guide is intended to support informed decision‑making and to help communities explore projects that align with their values, interests, and goals.”

The IESO is currently seeking proposals for up to 1TWh of new waterpower. Indigenous participation, whether through project support, collaboration, or equity ownership, will be a key factor in the success of all future developments. With an estimated 3,000–4,000 MW of new waterpower potential in Ontario, communities have significant opportunities to shape and benefit from this next wave of investment.

“There is a growing recognition that economic reconciliation must be actioned through real opportunities,” added Norris. “Waterpower projects can provide long‑term revenue, local employment, and shared stewardship of lands and waters. This guide is one step toward supporting communities in determining what role they want to play.”

The vast majority of waterpower projects developed over the last several years involve Indigenous equity partnerships. As the province plans a major system expansion, Indigenous ownership will be central to ensuring that new projects are developed responsibly and collaboratively.
Access the Indigenous Guide to Waterpower Development here.

About OWA

The OWA is a not-for-profit, member-based organization promoting the sustainable development of waterpower resources in Ontario. Since 2001, the OWA has been representing the common and collective interests of the waterpower industry.

For more information on the Ontario Waterpower Association, visit www.owa.ca.

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Contact:
Paul Norris
President
Ontario Waterpower Association
Email: pnorris@owa.ca

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