The Canadian province of British Columbia has signed a Coastal First Nations LNG benefits agreement addressing economic benefits and environmental impacts associated with LNG development.
B.C. said in its statement the recent agreement has been signed with the Wuikinuxv, Heiltsuk, Kitasoo/Xaixais, Gitga’at, and Metlakatla First Nations.
“Under the agreement, the province will work with the First Nations on environmental safety and stewardship, air-shed impacts, greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy, skills training and employment projects,” the province said.
The agreement delivers base funding of C$1.5 million annually over three years and further funding is available based on the number of LNG projects proceeding to a final investment decision and LNG export.
Besides complementing the impact benefits agreements between the industry and First Nations, and other agreements between the province and First Nations, associated with LNG-related development, it provides certainty to proponents prior to reaching FID on LNG developments.
“Coastal First Nations have previously provided input on benchmarks for LNG plant emissions and two air-shed studies related to proposed LNG facilities development in the Kitimat and Prince Rupert areas,” the province added.