Alberta Indigenous Solar Program

Gridworks Energy is 100% Indigenous owned and operated since 1998.

Empowering Indigenous Communities Through Solar Power

Gridworks commits to providing meaningful consultation, building respectful relationships; While obtaining the free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous peoples before proceeding with business development.

By training and hiring members of each community for each project we design and install, we commit to providing Indigenous peoples with access to equitable access to jobs, training, and educational opportunities. Furthermore, we ensure that education is provided for our staff on the history of Indigenous peoples. Our goal for every Indigenous community project is to ensure that each community obtains sustainable long-term benefits from their solar projects and training experience.

Gridworks Energy is 100% Indigenous owned and operated with over 20 years of industry experience. We have provided solar training as well as, design and installation services for over 75 indigenous communities and organizations across Canada and counting for more than 20 years.

We do this by engaging and consulting with each community for their specific needs. We work with, not for, your community to find the exact solution your community desires. We provide meaningful training and employment opportunities for your community members for each project through our CSA (Canadian Standards Association) recognized training program and hire those trained members for the installation of their projects.

Gridworks affirms the 92nd call to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

What is the Alberta Indigenous Solar Program (AISP)?

The Alberta Indigenous Solar Program (AISP) is a grant program designed to support Indigenous communities in Alberta by funding solar energy projects.

The program is part of Alberta’s broader efforts to promote renewable energy and help Indigenous communities reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources, lower energy costs, and create long-term environmental and economic benefits.

Key Features of the Alberta Indigenous Solar Program (AISP):

Purpose: The AISP aims to assist Indigenous communities, organizations, and businesses in Alberta with the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The goal is to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decrease energy costs, and provide educational and job opportunities in renewable energy for Indigenous people.
Who Can Apply: The program is open to First Nations, Métis Settlements, Métis Nation of Alberta, and Indigenous organizations or businesses that are majority Indigenous-owned. Eligible applicants must be based in Alberta.
Eligible Projects: The AISP supports the installation of solar PV systems for:
- Community buildings
- Band offices
- Schools
- Health centers
- Residential or commercial properties
- Other facilities owned by Indigenous organizations or businesses
Funding Amount: The program provides grants to cover a portion of the costs associated with solar energy installation, including the equipment and labor needed to implement the project. While the specific funding amounts may vary depending on the project size and scope, the program typically covers up to 60% of eligible costs.
Goals:
- Reduce energy costs for Indigenous communities
- Create economic opportunities and jobs in the renewable energy sector for Indigenous people
- Promote energy independence and sustainability within Indigenous communities
- Encourage the adoption of clean energy technologies
Program Benefits:
- Lower energy bills for communities and organizations
- Long-term financial savings through renewable energy generation
- Reduced environmental impact and carbon footprint
- Educational opportunities for community members to learn about renewable energy and develop skills in the solar industry
Application Process: Applicants need to submit a detailed proposal outlining the scope of the solar project, including expected energy generation, environmental benefits, and how the community or business will benefit. The application typically requires technical details, including quotes from solar installation providers, to be considered for funding.

Why Gridworks Energy?

As a 100% Indigenous-owned company with over 20 years of industry experience (our first PV installation was way back in 1998) we understand the unique needs of Indigenous communities and are passionate about helping them achieve energy independence through sustainable solutions.

Our team offers a comprehensive 25-year warranty on solar PV modules, and advanced technology like drone-assisted site assessments.

With strong partnerships and a commitment to creating jobs and opportunities for Indigenous workers, Gridworks Energy leads the way in delivering safe, reliable, and community-focused solar projects.

Indigenous Services Provided

Solar PV Design and Installation: residential, commercial, institutional, industry and utility.
Solar Training Centre located in Edmonton, Alberta.
Specialized Mobile Solar Training for remote communities.
Electrical Vehicle Infrastructure Installation.
Electrical Contracting: residential, commercial, light industrial, and energy retrofits.

Over 20 years in business and solar industry experience.

Solar Grants and Programs Available

Gridworks is honoured to help your community reach it’s goals. There are a number of programs available to assist Indigenous communities with integrating solar energy or creating jobs.

Learn about our Alberta Solar Rebates or visit the links below to learn more:

Canada-Alberta Jobs Grant for training funding rebates for First Nation and Métis community members
Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit: A refundable 15% tax credit on the capital costs of investments made by non-taxable entities, such as Indigenous communities, municipally owned utilities and Crown corporations that make investments in renewable energy, energy storage and inter-provincial transmission and other non-emitting electricity infrastructure.