CHIPPEWAS OF THE THAMES FIRST NATION — Ontario's Government is working for the people to lower heating costs and make businesses more competitive by expanding access to natural gas in the community of Chippewas of the Thames First Nation.
Bill Walker, Associate Minister of Energy, announced today that construction work is well underway on six kilometers of new natural gas pipeline in Chippewas of the Thames First Nation in Middlesex County after the project was granted approval from the Ontario Energy Board.
"By expanding access to natural gas, our government is helping make life more affordable for businesses and families in Chippewas of the Thames First Nation," said Associate Minister Walker. "Expanding access to natural gas will help make the community more attractive for job creation and new business growth, sending a clear message that Ontario is open for business."
The Chippewas of the Thames Community Expansion project, being developed by Enbridge Gas, will benefit from up to $1.43 million in eligible funding to expand natural gas through the Ontario Natural Gas Expansion Support Program. The project will connect approximately 43 residential and 2 commercial customers, including a seniors' center and a healing center. When compared to using electricity, propane or oil, switching to natural gas could save the average household in Chippewas of the Thames up to $2,500 per year in home and water heating costs.
"The average household in the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation will save up to $2,500 per year as a result of this project," said Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton. "It's important that our policies help Indigenous nations in my riding prosper. I'm happy to see that happen."
"Having access to natural gas in our community means that more residents and businesses will have a lower-cost heating fuel that is available to us by turning up a thermostat when the seasons change. We appreciate that Indigenous communities are being recognized through the expansion of natural gas in Ontario," said Jacqueline French, Chief, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation.
"We are pleased that the Government of Ontario recognizes the importance of safe, reliable and affordable natural gas and we look forward to working with the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation community to bring this project into service later this year," said Cynthia Hansen, President of Enbridge Gas Inc.
The pipeline is expected to be in service by the end of 2019.
Expanding access to natural gas to more rural, northern, and First Nation communities is a top priority for the Government of Ontario. The new Natural Gas Expansion Support Program is helping expand access to natural gas to new communities across Ontario, connecting thousands of households and businesses to the clean and affordable fuel that they deserve.
Source : Ontario.ca