At this year’s #Generate2025 conference, held May 12–13 in Vancouver, Clean Energy BC honoured the Dzawada’enuxw First Nation with the Community of the Year Award. This annual recognition celebrates communities that lead the way in clean energy innovation, meaningful community engagement, and environmental stewardship in British Columbia.
Held on the traditional, unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, Generate 2025 was two days of knowledge-sharing, partnership-building, and celebration of Indigenous leadership in clean energy development. One of the most anticipated highlights of the event was the Awards Presentation Luncheon, where DFN was honoured alongside clean energy veteran Bert Casavant, recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award, Karrissa Kirkwood, recipient of the Student Scholarship, and
Kara Wilson, who received the Anitra Paris Female Youth Leadership Award.
The Dzawada’enuxw First Nation’s achievement is anchored in the successful development of the Padakus Creek Hydropower Facility. This community-owned, run-of-river project now powers the remote village of Gwayi, located at the head of Kingcome Inlet.
Previously, the Gwayi community relied entirely on electricity generated by diesel. This came at a high cost, both financially and environmentally. The Nation’s vision was clear – to replace this system with a reliable, renewable energy source that respects and protects the surrounding lands and waters.
Now operational, the Padakus Creek facility utilizes a power flow of 0.20 m³/s to generate up to 350kW of electricity. In an average year, the system displaces 97% of diesel consumption. The environmental impact is significant, as annual GHG emissions have dropped from approximately 868 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent to just 26 tonnes.
The design also includes provisions for future expansion. A second turbine can be added to increase power flow to 0.50 m³/s, potentially doubling the capacity to 700kW. This forward-thinking approach enhances long-term energy resilience and positions the community for growth.
Driven by Community Values
What sets this project apart is the technical performance and the deep, values-based approach Dzawada’enuxw takes throughout every phase. Community members were active participants from the earliest planning stages. Their traditional knowledge, local expertise, and cultural priorities shaped the project’s vision, timeline, and decision-making.
What sets this project apart is the technical performance and the deep, values-based approach Dzawada’enuxw takes throughout every phase. Community members were active participants from the earliest planning stages. Their traditional knowledge, local expertise, and cultural priorities shaped the project’s vision, timeline, and decision-making.
From guiding environmental assessments to helping define the project’s operating principles, DFN’s leadership ensured the hydropower facility aligned with the community’s long-term goals for energy, sovereignty, sustainability, and future generations.
The Community of the Year Award recognizes clean energy outcomes and outstanding community engagement, education, and awareness throughout the development process.
Barkley Project Group was honoured to serve as the Lead Project Manager, supporting the Nation in realizing their vision. Additional project consultants included:
Hazelwood Construction
EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc.
Gygax Engineering Associates Ltd.
Dependable Turbines
Each partner brought their expertise with respect and collaboration, working under the guidance and direction of Dzawada’enuxw First Nation’s leadership and project team. The result is a clean energy project rooted in local values, built through strong partnerships, and led by community determination.
A Model for Indigenous-Led Climate Solutions
This award recognizes more than just a completed project; it honours a vision fulfilled. Dzawada’enuxw First Nation has delivered a powerful message in pursuing energy independence, where climate action and self-determination go hand in hand.
With their project now supplying the energy needs of Gwayi, the Nation has reduced harmful emissions, cut reliance on diesel fuel, and built a resilient foundation for future development. The Padakus Creek facility is a beacon of Indigenous-led innovation, demonstrating what is possible when communities are supported to lead their energy futures.