WINNIPEG A Manitoba First Nation, the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation, has taken decisive action to address its energy needs by purchasing backup generators after being left without adequate support amid a wildfire crisis and prolonged power outage last summer. Residents of the First Nation were evacuated for 128 days due to an extended outage caused by Manitoba Hydro, leaving over 2,000 individuals displaced.
The First Nation's leadership revealed that they have secured private financing for an $8-million purchase of generators, which were intended to be installed last summer. Chief Gordie Bear expressed frustration over the lack of assistance or cost-sharing from the federal and provincial governments regarding this urgent need for backup power, urging the province's minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro to facilitate the connection of the new equipment.
During the wildfire crisis, Manitoba Hydro communicated to the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation that transporting and setting up the generators was impractical due to ongoing wildfires and limited rail services. The utility was involved in repairing damage caused by the wildfires, with crews facing significant challenges that included the replacement of 253 structures and navigating difficult terrain.
Manitoba Hydro spokesman Peter Chura highlighted that while the utility was supportive of the community acquiring its own backup generation, they are not responsible for cost-sharing any customer-owned generation. He also pointed out that the organization provided consultants to help the First Nation assess its future energy needs after last summer’s events.
The urgency of the situation was underscored by the fact that the wildfire season of 2025 was declared the worst on record since the mid-1990s, affecting thousands of Manitobans. Over 1,000 members of the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation were evacuated to Niagara Falls, Ontario, highlighting the severe impact on the community.
In response to the crisis and the potential for future emergencies, Chief Bear stated, "We had to move forward with our own solution for energy security and emergency response." He emphasized the risk of leaving vulnerable populations, including elders, families, youth, and children, at the mercy of power outages and resultant evacuations.
Following the purchase of the generators, the First Nation continues to advocate for stronger communication and collaboration with government entities to ensure their community's energy requirements are met. Manitoba Hydro maintains that while it supported the community's initiative, diverting crew resources to aid in generator supply would have delayed the broader restoration of power service.
This situation illustrates the critical need for proactive measures in addressing emergencies faced by remote communities. The Mathias Colomb Cree Nation's purchase of backup generators marks a significant step towards self-sufficiency and resilience in the face of future crises.
