Financing clean technologies within Canada's Indigenous communities: Perspectives on sustainable energy transition from practitioners and academics

Indigenous communities across Canada continue to maintain significant influence on the long-term trajectory of that nation's clean energy transition. Whether it is merchant transmission lines in Ontario or new large-scale hydroelectric generation in British Columbia, communities are adopting their own financing approaches to support Indigenous financial inclusion. Some of these strategies are long-running, while others demonstrate novelty. All approaches aim to develop financial and energy sovereignty. In this co-produced paper (jointly prepared by Indigenous and non-Indigenous practitioners and academics), we synthesise select locally-rooted structures already in use – including many leveraged through extended experiences in both the energy transition generally and the national or community-based Indigenous economic development & energy and infrastructure units specifically. We then spotlight national clean technology financing-supportive organisations that can help with maintaining momentum and reaching scale. To conclude, we offer distinct areas where Indigenous communities and non-Indigenous partners can continue to creatively collaborate at every stage of the energy finance lifecycle – from very early-stage innovation all the way through to later stage refinancing of maturing assets. The Canada-centric case study presented here may present implications and insights for other countries or territories seeking to empower Indigenous voices in their own energy transition. • Explores financial strategies enabling Indigenous ownership and participation in renewable energy projects. • Emphasizes the importance of co-production between Indigenous and non-Indigenous experts for successful energy initiatives. • Examines Canadian case studies with insights relevant to Indigenous energy transitions worldwide. • Highlights how Indigenous-led projects create economic, social, and environmental benefits. • Identifies key funding mechanisms and policy recommendations to enhance Indigenous energy investment.