To obtain ongoing advice and guidance on the development of programs and initiatives, including the Aboriginal Energy Partnerships Program (AEPP), the OPA (now the Independent Electricity System Operator) established the Aboriginal Energy Working Group in 2013. It replaces the Aboriginal Advisory Committee.

The Working Group’s members are First Nation and Métis community members who reside across the province and who are active in Ontario’s electricity industry.  Meetings are held at the IESO’s offices and are chaired by an IESO staff member. 

To guide the Working Group, the members and the former OPA worked together to develop a Statement of Principles. The Principles state that the purpose of the AEWG is to “share thoughts and insights on the electricity sector and to share technical advice about OPA programs and initiatives.” Members attend in their personal capacities and not as a representative of their employer or community. The Principles also state that the Working Group is not a forum for meeting the duty to consult.

The Working Group is composed of the following members:

John Beaucage

Cherie Brant

Melissa Cooper

Theresa Hall

Darren K. Harper

Ed Gilbert

J.P. Gladu

Margaret Kenequanash

Jake Linklater

Jason Madden

Mike Metatawabin

Marvin Pelletier

Dwayne Nashkawa

Keith Sayers