FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2025
Sault Ste. Marie, ON — The Sault Ste. Marie Métis Heritage Centre has a new solar installation that will help power the facility for years to come. The project marks another important step in the Métis Nation of Ontario’s (MNO) commitment to environmental stewardship, clean energy, and long-term sustainability across the province.
The installation is part of the broader MNO Solar Panel Program, which supports clean, renewable energy generation for Métis households and MNO-owned buildings wherever installation is feasible. The Centre’s new 8kW grid-tied solar system is designed to offset nearly all of its electrical consumption. Through net metering, excess energy produced during sunny periods is returned to the provincial grid. When the Centre requires more electricity than it produces, such as at night, it can draw power back from the grid as needed.
“Our most enduring value as a people is our love and care for Mother Earth. This solar project helps us to care for her,” said Steve Gjos, President of the Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Council.
“These solar projects are an important investment in our Nation’s future,” said Jacques Picotte, PCMNO Region 3 Councillor and Provincial Secretary of Environment, Emergency Preparedness & Climate Change. “By harnessing renewable energy, we’re not only reducing our environmental impact but also demonstrating to our citizens and partners that the Métis Nation of Ontario is serious about taking action on climate change.”
“The Historic Sault Ste. Marie Metis Council have worked hard for many years to develop the Heritage Centre, a first of its kind in Ontario,” said Mitch Case, Regional Councillor for the Huron-Superior Regional Métis Community. “This is an important next step – the building that holds our stories, now also embodies our values – of conservation and care for the environment that gave birth to our people. I want to thank Secretary Picotte and his team for this investment in the Region, and the Sault Council for the wisdom in seeing the value of this important step”
The MNO will continue expanding renewable energy initiatives across the province as part of its commitment to sustainability, community energy independence, and Métis-led climate action.