First Nations to lead Kino Aski LNG project

The project is based on a partnership model where Kino Aski Inc. holds a majority ownership interest in the project development company, Kino Aski LNG Inc., while Marinvest Energy Canada Inc. holds a minority interest. This structure places First Nations at the centre of the project's governance, financing, design, construction, and operations, while inviting international energy industry partners to provide expertise and invest alongside Canadian partners to secure a European energy supply.

“Kino Aski LNG represents a unique opportunity to demonstrate that our communities can be leading economic partners while protecting our lands, our values, and our future,” said Constant Awashish, Kino Aski Inc.

Under the leadership of the Atikamekw Nation, Kino Aski has as objective to assemble a coalition of First Nations from Quebec and Ontario to advance long-term economic benefits, reconciliation, environmental protection, and responsible development on traditional territories. The project will also contribute to decarbonising existing energy consumers during the transition toward net-zero emissions. Environmental impact assessments, community consultations, and respectful engagement will guide all phases of the project.

In a period of global energy instability, Kino Aski LNG will establish a reliable, secure, short–distance energy corridor between North America and Europe. The project is designed to deliver up to 15 million tpy of LNG, powered by renewable electricity in Quebec. By supplying certified low-methane Canadian natural gas, Kino Aski LNG will help decarbonise existing energy consumers during the transition to net-zero emissions.

Natural gas will be sourced from Western Canada and transported to the year-round operating Port of Baie–Comeau using a combination of existing and new pipeline infrastructure. The gas will be certified for low methane emissions, meeting Europe's demand for cleaner, more secure energy supplies. This project will support the shared goal of building a stronger transatlantic energy partnership between Canada and the EU.

“The EU-Canada partnership is not just a friendship of values. It is also a strategic asset. Especially at a time when we face turbulent geopolitics and volatile energy markets. By working even closer together on secure and reliable energy supplies, we can strengthen our resilience on both sides of the Atlantic,” added Dan Jørgensen, European Commissioner for Energy and Housing, EU-Canada Energy Security Business Roundtable (29 June 2026).

“Canada has an opportunity to become a trusted long-term energy partner for Europe. Through Kino Aski LNG, First Nations are not only participating in that future – we are helping shape it. This project is about creating lasting prosperity for our communities while contributing to Canada's economic and energy leadership,” concluded Awashish.

Kino Aski Inc. and Marinvest Energy Canada Inc. emphasise that the project remains in the development phase. Discussions with governments, communities, and industry partners are ongoing. No formal regulatory process has yet begun. Additional details will be released as technical studies, environmental assessments, and consultations with rightsholders and stakeholders advance.

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquefaction/18082026/first-nations-to-lead-kino-aski-lng-project/