How Canada’s Haisla Nation Became the World’s First Indigenous LNG Owners

The Haisla Nation on Canada’s Pacific coast has made history by becoming the first Indigenous community in the world to own a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project, a milestone that blends energy development with Indigenous self-determination.**

A Landmark Achievement

Located in Kitimat, British Columbia, the Haisla Nation has taken a majority ownership role in the Cedar LNG project — a floating terminal designed to ship Canadian natural gas to global markets. This marks a turning point not just for Indigenous participation in resource projects, but also for how Canada approaches reconciliation through economic opportunity.

For decades, Indigenous communities were often sidelined in major energy projects that cut across their lands. By leading Cedar LNG, the Haisla have flipped the script, turning from stakeholders to full-scale owners.

Why It Matters

The global LNG market is booming as countries seek cleaner alternatives to coal and oil. Canada’s West Coast, with its proximity to Asian markets, is seen as a critical gateway. For the Haisla Nation, this means not only revenue and jobs but also long-term control over how development affects their territory and environment.

“This is about creating prosperity for generations to come, while ensuring our values and stewardship guide the project,” one community leader explained.

Indigenous Ownership as a Model

Analysts say the Cedar LNG model could reshape how natural resource projects are negotiated across Canada and beyond. Instead of being limited to consultation or compensation, Indigenous groups are demanding — and now achieving — a seat at the ownership table.

Such partnerships could also help defuse conflicts that have historically stalled Canadian energy projects, as Indigenous participation builds greater trust and legitimacy.

Balancing Growth and Sustainability

Cedar LNG is being developed with an eye on sustainability, with plans to use hydroelectric power for its operations — a move that significantly cuts greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional LNG facilities.

Still, environmental groups caution that expanding LNG exports could lock in fossil fuel use for decades, raising questions about climate commitments. The Haisla Nation, however, argues that LNG offers a cleaner bridge fuel while supporting community-led development.

The Bigger Picture

As global energy demand shifts and Indigenous communities assert greater control, the Haisla Nation’s role in Cedar LNG could serve as a blueprint. It is a rare case where energy security, economic growth, and Indigenous rights intersect — and where an Indigenous community isn’t just consulted, but truly in charge.