Jessica Nixon, MBA, ICD

The Cowessess First Nation’s  renewable energy portfolio includes a 10 MW solar farm, 1 MW wind, 330KW of community based solar, and 400 KW of lithium ion battery storage, currently in operation on reserve land in south-east Saskatchewan.   Jessica has been the primary champion on behalf of the community to launch renewables on its behalf, leading the 10 MW project, from an idea in 2018 through to completed construction in 2022.  The project boasted Indigenous labour content rate between 20 and 50% through construction and has invested in training and mentorship positions for two Cowessess citizens in project and construction management. The $21 million project has a 20 year secure Power Purchase Agreement with SaskPower and creates significant financial returns for the community.  This project will revolutionize Cowessess’ ability to self-fund economic development initiatives in the future.