Vancouver, BC – March 13, 2025 – The Clean Energy Association of British Columbia (CEBC) is pleased to announce the release of A Clean Energy Vision for British Columbia: Powering Reconciliation and Economic Growth, a roadmap for advancing Indigenous-led clean energy development, increasing investment certainty, unlocking sustainable economic growth, and enhancing regulatory efficiency.
British Columbia is experiencing a period of unprecedented demand for clean electricity, driven by population growth, industrial and residential development, and a collective shift towards sustainable energy solutions. First Nations and B.C.’s clean energy sector are at the forefront of the energy transition and push to diversify and strengthen our economy, leading many of the projects that will power the province’s future. Policies that support Indigenous equity, private sector investment, and streamlined permitting will be critical to ensuring clean electricity is available for our communities and industries where and when it is needed.
“British Columbia stands at the forefront of a transformative era in clean energy,” said Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, Executive Director of CEBC. “With First Nations leading new projects at an unprecedented scale, we have a unique opportunity to build an energy future that reflects Indigenous leadership, strengthens local economies, and ensures long-term energy security. By fostering strong partnerships and implementing supportive policies, we can sustain this momentum and ensure a resilient and prosperous future for all British Columbians.”
The release of this vision document follows significant milestones in B.C.’s clean energy sector. BC Hydro’s historic 2024 Call for Power set a new precedent for Indigenous participation in B.C.’s clean energy sector by requiring a minimum 25% First Nations equity in projects, with the selected projects having 50% First Nations equity, on average. The Call, open to various renewable technologies, received an overwhelming response, prompting BC Hydro to increase procurement from an initial target of 3,000 gigawatt-hours (GWh) per year to nearly 5,000 GWh. Ten projects were selected, nine wind and one solar, representing approximately $6 billion in private capital spending and $2.5 billion to $3 billion in First Nations equity ownership. CEBC is proud that eleven of our Members – both First Nations and independent power producers – were among the successful proponents, demonstrating the strength of Indigenous and industry partnerships in advancing B.C.’s clean energy future.
At the same time, the Province’s recent actions to remove regulatory duplication and move to a one-window permitting model under the BC Energy Regulator (BCER) marks an important shift toward reducing lengthy permitting delays and increasing certainty for clean energy development. CEBC has long advocated for a one-window regulatory approach and remains committed to working with government, First Nations, and industry to refine the process, ensuring it upholds Indigenous rights, maintains B.C.’s high environmental standards, and supports long-term economic reconciliation.
CEBC continues to advocate for policies and regulatory reforms that empower Indigenous leadership, attract investment in B.C.’s clean energy sector, and position renewable energy as a driver of economic reconciliation and sustainable growth. The Association will continue working with its Members, First Nations, the Province, BCER, BC Hydro, and industry partners to help shape and implement the next Call for Power, expected in 2026.
The full document, A Clean Energy Vision for British Columbia: Powering Reconciliation and Economic Growth, is available at: www.cleanenergybc.org/vision
About Clean Energy Association of British Columbia
For over 30 years, the Clean Energy Association of British Columbia (CEBC) has been the voice of BC’s clean energy sector, advocating for policies and partnerships that drive the transition to a low-carbon future. CEBC represents nearly 200 Members, including clean energy developers, First Nations, service providers, academic institutions, and students.
CEBC fosters collaboration between industry, government, and First Nations, with a focus on economic reconciliation and Indigenous self-determination. By championing projects that benefit local economies and the environment, CEBC supports a clean, equitable, and sustainable energy future for all British Columbians.
For further information, please contact:
Ombrielle Neria
comms@cleanenergybc.org
