April 5, 2021 – The Northern Responsible Energy Approach for Community Heat and Electricity program (Northern REACHE) has provided the Hamlet of Gjoa Haven in Nunavut $140,000 over two years (2018-2020) for the installation of a 10-kW solar photovoltaic system on the roof of the local arena.

This project is a part of a series of clean energy initiatives that the Hamlet has been pursuing with World Wildlife Fund Canada and NRCan’s Indigenous Off-diesel Initiative.

The solar PV system is installed and generating electricity for the arena. Any unused energy will be available to the local power grid, and Qulliq Energy Corp. (QEC) will provide a credit to the Hamlet of Gjoa Haven.

The community will monitor its performance through the installation of smart meter technology.

“QEC proudly offers the net metering program to help Nunavut communities offset their energy use,” said Rick Hunt, acting president & CEO of Qulliq Energy. “Gjoa Haven’s solar system at the local arena is a prime example of how the territory is actively helping to reduce Nunavut’s dependency on diesel fuel and cut carbon emissions. The corporation looks forward to further creating new clean energy opportunities in the future.”

Canada says it has invested $21.5 million through Northern REACHE to support 118 projects, helping communities reduce their reliance on diesel fuel. These investments are part of Canada’s nearly $700-million commitment to help rural and remote communities get off diesel, through programs delivered by Natural Resources Canada and Infrastructure Canada.