Aboriginal Relations Policy

Introduction

Today, the term "Aboriginal engagement" is rapidly becoming a part of the business lexicon in developing a broader, more inclusive, and continuous process between a company and First Nation Communities who may be potentially impacted by resource based, industrial or commercial development. Aboriginal engagement encompasses a range of activities throughout the life of a project and reflects broader changes in how business is conducted. Investors are increasingly aware of the business and reputational risks that come from poor Aboriginal relations and place a growing emphasis on corporate social responsibility, transparency and reporting. The desire and capacity of First Nation Communities and businesses to participate in development has increased significantly and Xeneca will work co-operatively to assist in the continued success of such participation. In this context, good Aboriginal relations are an integral element of good risk management practice and more importantly, the right way to conduct business.

Society’s appreciation for corporate endeavours beyond the normal business case helps build "reputation capital" that can be used to improve the business case. This approach is creating a new dimension of competitive advantage that is based on development of First Nations relationships.

As we develop our renewable energy projects in Ontario, Xeneca’s Aboriginal Relations Policy and Aboriginal Engagement Process will be key to the management and monitoring of our company’s reputational, operational and financial risks. Mainstream investors have always sought to maximize financial returns within specific risk tolerances which, in the past, may not have typically included a specific social agenda. For Xeneca, however, social, environmental and corporate governance factors are key components of our Aboriginal Relations Program. In order to maintain a competitive advantage and minimize operational/reputational risks in the renewable energy sector, Xeneca is committed to developing and maintaining positive and constructive relations with First Nation Communities.

Xeneca recognizes and appreciates that we have a responsibility to establish and foster mutually beneficial relationships with First Nation Communities whose traditional territories are within the areas where Xeneca conducts its business. Trust is fundamental to obtaining and maintaining our "social licence" to operate. The intent of this Policy is to lay the foundation for Xeneca’s Aboriginal Engagement Process. Local Aboriginal Communities and Identified Aboriginal Communities are defined pursuant to the Ministry of Natural Resources Site Release Policy, April 16, 2010.