Pathfinder Wind Project

FirstLight’s Development Philosophy

At FirstLight, we are focused on accelerating the decarbonization of the electric grid by advancing and integrating renewable energy and storage solutions. Our development approach is rooted in delivering renewable, reliable, affordable, and equitable electricity through impactful renewable energy projects.

With a portfolio of over 1.6 GW of operating assets and a development pipeline exceeding 4 GW—including hydro, solar, wind, and battery storage—we are well positioned to meet evolving market needs across Canada.

We have been developing and operating renewable energy projects in Canada since 1987—always in collaboration with the communities where we work. This long-standing presence reflects our commitment to building respectful, lasting relationships and ensuring that our projects deliver local benefits.

In alignment with our mission and vision, FirstLight is actively participating in Ontario’s IESO LT2 procurement process. We are focused on developing large-scale renewable energy projects that enhance system reliability and contribute to Ontario’s decarbonization objectives. Committed to early and meaningful engagement with local and Indigenous communities, we bring deep experience in project development, operations, and partnership models that reflect community priorities.

Our strong track record in delivering hybrid renewable energy solutions, combined with our collaborative, community-first approach, makes FirstLight a trusted partner in advancing Ontario’s renewable energy future under LT2 and beyond.

Project Fast Facts

Technology: Wind Energy

Capacity: 200 MW

Development Status: Pre-Development

Commercial Operation Estimate: 2030

About the Pathfinder Wind Project

FirstLight is developing an up to 200 megawatt (MW) wind energy project on Crown Land between Elliot Lake and Blind River to support Ontario’s transition to clean electricity.

The project is being advanced for submission to the IESO Long-Term Procurement process, which aims to bring new low-carbon generation online to meet the province’s growing energy needs.

The Project will be capable of supplying clean electricity to up to 70,000 Ontario households

Our Partnership

Indigenous Peoples have a vital presence and deep connection to the land where FirstLight operates. In line with our commitment to respectful, long-term, and mutually beneficial relationships, we work with Indigenous communities to plan and deliver projects responsibly and inclusively.

This approach also supports the IESO’s objectives under the Long-Term 2 (LT2) procurement, which encourages Indigenous participation in energy projects to strengthen local partnerships and advance shared economic opportunities.

Project Timeline and Location

Project Benefits

Economic & Job Creation
Direct, temporary employment, lodging and related opportunities created during 2-year construction phase. Six to eight high-quality jobs created to support 20+ year operations and maintenance phase. Possible local contracting opportunities and benefit for local businesses during construction and operations phases.

First Nations Partnership
Possible participation of nearby First Nations in project development and ownership.

Community Vibrancy Fund
Significant, annual financial contributions to support local initiatives such as parks, recreation, and community programs.

Clean Electricity Supply
Connecting to the Hydro One transmission network, the project will supply Ontario with low carbon electricity for 20+ years.

Community Engagement
Transparent communication and engagement process with local residents. Opportunities for public input and information sessions during project development.

Taxes
Increased property tax base contributing to municipal budgets.

Project Details

Environmental

• Environmental Overview
  • FirstLight is working with environmental consultants Avaanz and Lands Management Departments within each First Nation to guide permitting and assess potential environmental effects of the Pathfinder Wind Project.
  • The project will comply with Ontario’s Renewable Energy Approval (REA) process under O. Reg. 359/09 of the Environmental Protection Act.
• Environmental Studies
  • As part of the REA process, a range of technical studies will be completed, including:
    • Natural Heritage Assessment
      • Identifies and protects local wildlife, habitats, and vegetation.
    • Water and Wetland Assessments
      • Ensures protection of wetlands, groundwater, and surface water features.
    • Noise and Shadow Flicker Studies
      • Confirms that the project meets all provincial noise and visual disturbance standards.
    • Cultural and Archaeological Reviews
      • Safeguards sites of cultural, historical, and archaeological importance.
    • Bird and Bat Monitoring
      • Includes both pre-construction baseline studies and operational monitoring to reduce impacts.
• Wildlife Protection
  • The project will follow Beneficial Management Practices from Environment and Climate Change Canada to help protect migratory birds during both construction and operation phases.

Sound

• Noise Levels
  • Wind Farms must comply with strict noise regulations set by the Ministry of the Environment Conservation and Parks (MECP).
  • The maximum allowable sound level at a noise receptor (e.g. home) must be 40 dBA.

Wind Turbines

• Wind Turbine Characteristics
  • Length of blades: 79 to 86m
  • Hub height: 112m to 125m
  • Construction area: Up to 5 acres per turbine
  • Wind Turbines require 1.5-2.5 acres of land each

Construction

• Construction
  • The foundation of a wind turbine is a large, circular concrete base that anchors the tower securely to the ground. It’s designed to safely support the weight of the turbine and resist the forces from wind and blade rotation. A permanent or temporary concrete batch plant will deliver around 80 cement trucks per foundation along an approved delivery route
  • Typical foundation:
    • 25 meters for each turbine.
    • 2 to 4 meters deep
    • Reinforced concrete with embedded steel rebar
    • Collector system is buried often under access roads.
  • The substation steps up the voltage to 230 kV to enable the connection between the Project and the Hydro One transmission grid.
• Wind Turbine Assembly
  • Around 15 transport trucks are needed to deliver all the components of a single wind turbine to the site. Once delivered, the nacelle is installed and the blades are assembled directly on the turbine pad using a large crane.
• Building and Operations
  • An operation and maintenance building allow operators to maintain the wind turbines and house spare parts. At least one permanent Meteorological tower will remain on site for operation purposes.

Decommissioning

• Turbine Life
  • Wind turbines are typically designed to operate for 30 to 40 years. At the end of their service life, a responsible decommissioning process ensures the site is restored and environmental impacts are minimized.
• Decommissioning Steps
  • Safe removal of turbine components: blades, tower, and nacelle
    • Underground cables are either removed or safely de-energized and left in place.
    • Concrete foundations may be fully or partially removed, depending on regulations and site conditions
    • Land restoration: backfilling, topsoil replacement, and replanting with native vegetation or returning to previous land use
    • Recycling or responsible disposal of all materials
• Decommissioning Cost
  • The project owner is responsible for safely removing infrastructure and restoring the land. If ownership changes or the company dissolves, these obligations remain with the project.

Project Updates, Links and Documents

• August 12, 2025 – Pathfinder Wind Project Open House
  • Time: 11AM – 4PM
  • Location: The Moose Lodge — 26 Oakland Blvd, Elliot Lake, ON P5A 2T1
• August 13, 2025 – Pathfinder Wind Project Open House
  • Time: 10AM – 7PM
  • Location: The Town of Blind River’s Community Centre, 110 Indiana Ave, Blind River, ON P0R 1B0

Contact Us

Additional questions or comments can be directed to info.on@firstlight.energy