
Katarina was a senior analyst in the renewables in remote communities program at the Pembina Institute until 2023.
Prior to joining Pembina, for nearly five years Katarina worked at an Indigenous-led organization conducting research about the Indigenous economy. She led studies on procurement, trade and export, Indigenous economic development corporations, and more. Through this experience, she gained a strong understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and policies needed to support the growing Indigenous economy in Canada.
Katarina holds a master’s degree in environmental studies specializing in community energy planning and a bachelor’s degree in political science and business, both from York University. For her master’s major research paper, she explored how First Nation-owned renewable energy projects can contribute to reconciliation and self-determination.
Katarina Savic's Recent Publications

Independent Power Producer policy in Nunavut Nunavut IODI champion and Pembina Institute feedback

The case for investing in clean energy in remote communities Recommendations on how to improve access to capital

Three clean energy options that could help replace diesel Hydrogen, small modular reactors and energy generated by the ocean are all under consideration in remote communities
In remote communities across Canada, low-carbon power sources such as hydrogen, nuclear, and energy generated by movement in the ocean are being studied more closely. Each of these clean energy technologies are options under consideration as remote Indigenous communities further their efforts to eliminate dependence on diesel power.

Recommendations to the Government of Nunavut to accelerate clean energy projects Improving policies to meet energy needs and climate goals
Nunavut is almost entirely dependent on diesel power for meeting its electricity and heating needs and has the highest diesel dependency of all territories and provinces. Policies that regulate the terms and conditions, as well as the rates paid to power producers, can be significantly improved so that producers are incentivized to develop clean energy projects that are sustainable, profitable, and contribute to reducing reliance on diesel power.