TORONTO, Ont.-In late October, the Ontario government announced that Wataynianeyap Power would receive a $1.34 billion loan to bring electricity to 17 First Nations in northwestern Ontario.

"I think it's an amazing milestone we've accomplished and we look forward to building the line," said Margaret Kenequanash, CEO, Wataynikaneyap Power LP. Wataynikaneyap means 'lines that brings light."

Wataynikaneyap Power, also known as Watay. is a partnership with 51 per cent ownership by 24 northwestern First Nations and 49 per cent by Fortis Inc. Fortis is a utility operator for gas and electricity in N...