Saugeen First Nation to expect natural gas for homes and businesses by 2021

July 22, 2020

Construction began recently on the first natural gas pipeline to the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, along Lake Huron. Hookups for almost 90 homes and businesses are expected to begin next fall. Participants in the groundbreaking included Chief Lester Anoquot, third from left, and Cynthia Hansen, Executive Vice President, Enbridge Inc., fourth from left. – Photo courtesy of Enbridge

By Colin Graf

SAUGEEN OJIBWAY NATION— Community members in this nation along the shores of Lake Huron will soon have access to natural gas to heat homes and businesses as construction begins on a pipeline to bring gas onto community lands.

The Saugeen First Nation Community Expansion Project is being built by Enbridge and will deliver natural gas to an estimated 65 homes and 24 businesses.

“I am thrilled to see the option of natural gas arrive here in Saugeen First Nation. Natural gas provides a cleaner and more affordable fuel source for heating water and homes for our Community members,” said Chief Lester Anoquot, Saugeen First Nation, in an Ontario government news release.

Switching to natural gas could save households from $800 to $2,500 per year and small and large businesses could save up to 30% per year on heating costs, according to the release. Ontario is providing up to $1.8 million for the $3.4 million project, which is also supported by the band and the local municipality said Enbridge communications advisor Leanne McNaughton.

Work on the gas line began last June, McNaughton said by e-mail and should continue through most of 2020, with the first customers to be connected in late fall.

Enbridge is working closely with Saugeen First Nation Chief and Council and is committed to continuing engagement with the community, she added.

“We’ve worked cooperatively with the community and will continue to strive for a dialogue based on mutual understanding and respect,” McNaughton said.

Enbridge Gas will continue to provide information about the project and in particular, its archaeological assessments and environmental program to interested First Nations, as well as make every effort to return the land and its natural features back to its pre-construction condition or better, she added.

When construction is complete, customers will be responsible for converting their existing appliances and heating equipment to natural gas; a cost that will vary depending on the existing fuel type they are currently using, Mc Naughton said. Costs can range from several hundred dollars to over $10,000 in cases where new ductwork is required throughout your home, she explained. For a detailed quote, customers should contact a registered heating contractor, she said.

“The further expansion of natural gas in our region, now onto the Saugeen First Nation, is welcome news and will help more residents have access to an energy source that is affordable and reliable,” said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce, in the government news release.

“Natural gas is the most affordable way to heat our homes and water, and we’re thrilled to bring this energy source to the Saugeen First Nation,” added Cynthia Hansen, Executive Vice President, Enbridge Inc.