Pays Plat First Nation and Hydro One Celebrate Launch of Three-Phase Line Project

New landmark agreements establish a 50-year framework for energy infrastructure and community development.

PAYS PLAT FIRST NATION, ON, Oct. 1, 2025 /CNW/ - Following three years of negotiations, Pays Plat First Nation and Hydro One Networks Inc. (HONI) have finalized a series of new agreements covering transmission and distribution infrastructure on reserve and on proposed addition-to-reserve (ATR) lands as the community expands. These landmark agreements establish a framework for collaboration that will guide the relationship for the next 50 years.

For Pays Plat First Nation, the agreements represent years of dedicated work to ensure that energy infrastructure on its lands reflects the Nation's values and priorities. The negotiations were guided by the principle that infrastructure on its lands must not only serve the technical needs of the grid but also advance the social, cultural, and economic aspirations of the community.

"This agreement represents more than just hosting electricity infrastructure in our community," said Chief Mushquash. "It reflects our Nation's determination to ensure the benefits associated with hosting that infrastructure are fair, that future development is guided by our community values, grounded in our rights, and advanced through relationships built on respect. We are proud to begin this next chapter with Hydro One."

At the heart of the new agreement is Hydro One's commitment to expand three-phase power to Pays Plat First Nation and bring much needed electrical capacity to the community. This transformative upgrade will enable new housing developments, support critical infrastructure, create opportunities for small businesses and economic projects, and ensure reliable power for essential services such as healthcare, education, and community facilities.

"This investment in local infrastructure is not just about meeting today's needs; it positions Pays Plat First Nation for future growth and resilience. Reliable, modern energy capacity is a cornerstone of sustainable community development, ensuring that future generations benefit from this long-term partnership," said Chief Mushquash.

Hydro One teams worked closely with Pays Plat First Nation leadership, advisors, and community members throughout the process. The result is not only a series of agreements but also a strengthened relationship rooted in dialogue, respect, and the recognition of rights.

"Hydro One is proud to work alongside Pays Plat First Nation to build a future together rooted in mutual respect and trust," said Matthew Jackson, Vice President, Indigenous Partnerships and Business Development, Hydro One. "These new agreements came as a result of the hard work and guidance of Pays Plat First Nation leadership, and together we have built a stronger, more equitable relationship that will benefit the community for generations to come."

The project launch is being formally celebrated on October 1, 2025, in Pays Plat First Nation, with community members, leadership, and Hydro One representatives in attendance. The event marks not only the commencement of the three-phase infrastructure construction but also the start of a new era of collaboration between the partners.

Together, Pays Plat First Nation and Hydro One are demonstrating how respectful negotiation and partnership can deliver tangible benefits for Indigenous communities, the energy sector, and the broader region for the long term.

SOURCE Pays Plat First Nation

Media Contact: Kaylee Lambert, Firedog Communications, Tel: [phone] ext: 225, Cell: [phone], Email: [email protected]