SAUGEEN - 2 - Green Energy Utility Hub Feasibility Study for Saugeen First Nation

This Terms of Reference (TOR) is used by Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation (SFN) as an invitation to submit a non-binding offer for professional services for the Saugeen First Nation: Green Energy Utility Hub Feasibility Study. This TOR describes the scope of work the Consultant is expected to perform in undertaking this project.
Following the Community Energy Plan, Saugeen First Nation have received proposal(s) for potential partnerships for utility hubs.  It is important to Saugeen First Nation to promote green and sustainable energy practices and self-sustainability.  Given its location, near Bruce Power, near Lake Huron, Saugeen may have good potential for a First Nation utility hub and to store energy generated by green technologies for the First Nation use.
The purpose of this study is to prepare an energy planning document that Saugeen First Nation can use to determine the economic viability of a First-Nation owned for-profit utility hub. The Study will also evaluate the viability of installing a large battery storage for the First Nation use. The Study will evaluate the viability of solar farm(s) and wind farm(s), these farms could be managed by the utility hub if proceeded with.  The study will incorporate community and leadership input.  The study shall also recommend any phasing of projects for implementation and proposed timelines for the projects.  The study will provide an estimate of greenhouse gas savings.
The scope of the Feasibility Study consists of:

• Utility Hub - Saugeen First Nation is interested in creating a utility hub which would be a for-profit organization owned by the FN.  The Consultant will work with the First Nation to propose a model and scope for this hub.
• Utility Hub Building - As part of the cost estimate for a Utility Hub, the Consultant will provide a recommendation if a separate Utility Hub Building is required, and what the size and capital cost estimate of such a building would be. The Building would house the office spaces of the staff members, plus any required equipment.
• Battery Energy Storage Project - Saugeen First Nation would like to explore a large battery energy storage project.  Given its proximity to Bruce Power, Saugeen may be able to save power during low demand periods for the nuclear system, and use the power during peak demands as a cost saving measure. Saugeen may also be able to power the battery through its proposed Green energy projects of wind and solar farms.
• The large battery storage is expected to help make Saugeen be more self-sufficient in case of periods without power.
• Solar Farm
• Wind Farm