Portrait
Name
Calvin J. Waquan
Company
Askiy Energy
Location
Mikisew Cree, Treaty 8 Territory, AB
Description
Calvin Waquan, an influential figure from Mikisew Cree First Nation in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, is a leader in sustainable energy and Indigenous sovereignty.
From 2017 to 2020, he served as a councillor for his nation, securing funding for critical infrastructure projects such as a new water treatment plant (13.6million) and leading negotiations that contributed to the creation of Kitaskino Nuwenëné Wildland Park and his Nation’s 49% stake in Suncor’s East Tank Farm Development (545million).
Calvin co-founded and served as the first president of Three Nations Energy, a 100% Indigenous-owned partnership responsible for developing one of Canada’s largest off-grid solar projects, the 2.35 MW Fort Chipewyan Solar Farm(7.8million). Currently, he is the president of Askiy Energy, a grassroots company dedicated to renewable solutions for Indigenous communities. Recognized as one of 10 Energy Champions in Natural Resources Canada’s Indigenous Off Diesel Initiative, Calvin is also an active participant in Indigenous Clean Energy’s “Bringing It Home” program, focusing on green energy and housing innovations. His work continues to bridge traditional Indigenous knowledge with modern approaches to climate action and energy sovereignty.
His work extends to various roles in the Indigenous Clean Energy network, from Advisory Council to mentorship of future champions and he tirelessly advocates for climate action and inherent right to his lands/resources.
Calvin also collaborates with Greenplanet Energy Analytics as a technology analyst and community educator, focusing on renewable energy and sustainability projects. Beyond his professional endeavors, Calvin is an avid kayaker, hunter and extremist and finds solace in paddling on Lake Athabasca and Peace Athabasca river systems. He moved back to Fort Chipewyan after his father’s passing in 2014 to reconnect with his ancestral homeland. Being out on the water during sunrise and sunset serves as a healing practice for him. In his youth, Calvin was also a dedicated hockey player playing high caliber hockey highlighting his athletic versatility from a young age. Now, passing on that love thru sponsoring youth, coaching and skating lessons over the 10years back home.