In March, the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) government hosted its inaugural Clean Energy and Natural Resources Summit in Saskatoon. The two-day gathering included MN–S provincial and local leaders, industry experts, and thought provokers.
Over the last eight years, the MN–S government has focused on collaboration to move Métis-distinct priorities forward. The result of its efforts was evident when all stakeholders came together exchange of ideas to benefit Métis rights holders and their families.
“When we succeed, Canada wins, communities win, individuals win.” – President Glen McCallum
Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) President Glen McCallum has long said the work of the MN–S government cannot succeed without strong working relationships. He stood by that mantra, during the inaugural Clean Energy and Natural Resources Summit that brought together the MN–S provincial elected, PMC, and Industry experts.
In his opening remarks, President McCallum said, “Partnerships are crucial to the economic stability of our Nation.”
Over the last eight years, that focus has driven the MN–S government to foster meaningful collaborations between MN–S Locals, First Nations communities, and industry – a significant one being SaskPower whose CEO says Indigenous partners are central to the energy security of our province.
The numbers demonstrate the impact. In 2023, SaskPower committed to more than $1 billion over ten years through Indigenous procurement. As of January 2026, SaskPower has invested $160 million or 20 percent of its total direct provincial spend, with Indigenous suppliers. In 2024 alone, Indigenous businesses in Saskatchewan received over $118 million in purchase orders. Additionally, over the past two years, SaskPower awarded $265 million in procurement for its natural gas builds to Indigenous businesses. Métis communities have been a part of it all.
SaskPower is a key partner engaging with Métis communities to build Saskatchewan’s energy-secure future. In his keynote address at the Summit, President and CEO Rupen Pandya said, “There’s no single power source to supply Saskatchewan residents and geography presents another challenge. The preferred pathway to the future is nuclear and Indigenous partners are at the centre of those conversations.”
In 2023, SaskPower and MN–S began exploring potential sites to house small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) in the north. Citizens were engaged and negotiations with the regulars are underway. During his Keynote address at the MN–S Clean Energy and Natural Resources Summit for MN–S locals, CEO Pandya said, “SaskPower intends to build the first 315-megawatt SMR by the mid-2030’s, with a second unit potentially following at the same facility. This year, we are working to identify a single site near Estevan that could accommodate up to two SMRs.” The board at the end of his power point summed it up:
“Thank you to MN–S for your ongoing partnership, for bringing us together, and for the leadership you continue to show in working together to build Saskatchewan’s energy future.”
Watch this highlight real about the Clean Energy and Natural Resources Summit: