A new wind energy project — known as MU2 — will add millions of dollars in benefits to the community in Canada’s Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine region. Together, the Mi’gmaq community and Innergex partnered to bring this project to life. It will create 150 direct jobs throughout the construction phase with a commitment to employ a minimum of 30% of the workforce from adjacent Mi’gmaq communities. MU2 represents a significant economic opportunity for the entire region. It’s a huge step forward not just for environmental policy in this country, but toward more sustainable energy production overall.
Situated on traditional Mi’gmaq territory near Rivière-Nouvelle, MU2 will add to the recently constructed 150MW Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n wind farm (MU1). With a capacity of 94.4MW, MU2 was the sole project among two provincial tenders for 780MW renewable energy blocks to incorporate an Indigenous community partner as a sponsor. The project’s long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with Hydro-Quebec is estimated to reduce emissions by around 153,053 tonnes per year.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
In addition, construction of MU2 stands to generate nearly 470 local jobs, and more than 880 jobs in the region. The developers are firmly committed to increasing area job opportunities. In their agreements, they commit at least 30% of the workforce to individuals from local Mi’gmaq communities. Beyond creating thousands of national employment opportunities, this initiative will improve the entire region’s economic efforts.
Frederic Vicaire, a member of the Mi’gmaq community expressing their pride in participating in the project said,
“MU2 reflects the maturity and determination of our communities to lead impactful energy development on our own terms. This partnership with Innergex and the support from the CIB demonstrate that Indigenous-led projects can be scalable, bankable and rooted in long-term vision.”
That intense commitment to local hiring tends to ensure a high level of community engagement. It makes sure that the promise of the project actually delivers meaningful, positive change to the local community’s benefit.
Environmental Benefits
Aside from the projected economic benefits, another major draw for MU2 is the facility’s important role in helping Canada’s renewable energy agenda reach new heights. The project intends to substantially improve air quality by reducing greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 153,053 tonnes annually. Our collaboration with Hydro-Quebec further emphasizes our dedication to providing clean energy solutions that help advance our customers’ environmental initiatives.
Ehren Cory, CEO of the Canadian Infrastructure Bank (CIB), underscored the importance of renewable projects such as MU2, saying,
“With our first investment in a Quebec wind energy project, the CIB is helping another province expand its clean electricity production and expand the capacity of its grid. This aligns with our mandate to support meaningful Indigenous economic and social development while investing in clean power opportunities.”
Financial Support and Future Operations
The collaborative project has already garnered deep pockets. It features a C$163.9 million green loan guaranteed by CIBC, Desjardins and the National Bank of Canada. The CIB has invested $81.9 million in other initiatives. MU2 is notable as a major Indigenous-led venture.
MU2 will enter service in late 2026. This initiative will cement the region’s commitment to renewable energy while improving collaboration with Indigenous communities. This project has been a major advance in the achievements of using local assets to promote sustainable growth. Most importantly, it makes sure that Indigenous communities are at the forefront of determining their future.