Iqaluit, Nunavut - Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation (NNC) is adopting an Inuit-led approach to harnessing renewable energy thanks to a new initiative that could reduce the city's reliance on heavily polluting and expensive diesel. The goal of this initiative is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make power and home heating more affordable. Iqaluit is one of the largest off-grid communities in Canada and, like every community in Nunavut, is entirely dependent on diesel power for heat and electricity. Fossil fuel systems in Nunavut carry risks and vulnerabilities that are ultimately faced by all Inuit who rely on this fuel source.
The Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit Project endeavours to develop an alternative solution through Inuit leadership in the green economy. A solution that minimizes risks, vulnerabilities, and harms to the environmental and social networks that are central to Inuit culture. Inuit knowledge and values will be built into development activities from the outset to ensure that it is directed by Inuit. The initiative is expected to bring Inuit closer to energy sovereignty, affordability, and environmental sustainability. The initiative will ensure Inuit can invest in and operate infrastructure that protects the land, creates local jobs, and generates financial returns that can be reinvested to promote growth, well-being, and affordability.
Today, the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, CanNor, and PrairiesCan, announced funding support of $4 million under the Northern REACHE Program for this important initiative. The community-led initiative is led by the Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation (NNC), a subsidiary of Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, a wholly owned Inuit birthright development corporation of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association.
The initiative is expected to bring Inuit closer to energy sovereignty, affordability, and environmental sustainability. The initiative will ensure Inuit have the ability to invest in and operate infrastructure that protects the land, creates local jobs, and generates financial returns that can be reinvested to promote growth, well-being, and affordability.
In the recent 2022 Fall Economic Statement, the Government of Canada highlighted its plan to continue its sound stewardship of the economy and to be there for Canadians. This includes an ambitious plan to strengthen industry and build a thriving net-zero economy with major investments in renewable energy, create new opportunities and jobs, and fight climate change.
