Latest news with #Inuit-owned
National Observer
20-05-2025
- Business
- National Observer
Committed to clean energy in the North
These in-their-own-words pieces are told to Patricia Lane and co-edited with input from the interviewee for the purpose of brevity. As director at Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation (NNC), 32-year-old Heather Shilton is passionately committed to ensuring communities drive the clean-energy transition. Tell us about your work. NNC is Nunavut's first 100-per-cent, Inuit-owned renewable energy developer. We aim to sustainably power the Qikiqtani region by empowering communities to take ownership of renewable energy projects that reflect their values. Our largest project, scheduled to come online in 2033, will replace all of Iqaluit's diesel use with hydroelectricity with potential additional capacity for clean home heating. Twelve other projects under various stages of development, construction and operation range from building-specific, micro-grid solar and battery energy storage to community-scaled wind and solar. Most renewable energy conversations are about technology, but it is the chance to empower communities to make their futures healthier, cleaner, and eventually more affordable, that propels me. We are breathing life into the concept of free, prior and informed consent in a way that sets an appropriately high benchmark for the entire country. There is a sad history of renewable projects attracting negative attention when rights-holders have their priorities ignored. None of our projects are complete until affected communities say, 'Yes,' at least four times. They must agree to explore alternatives to diesel, identify their preferred alternative, understand the economics, costs and social benefits, and approve the execution plan. Communities also play a key role in identifying co-benefits. For example, as we prepare to build the road to the water-power project, we are exploring erecting shelters to make snowmobile transportation and recreational land access safer. Building shelters is not part of our core business, but we do intend that people affected see maximum benefits. So, we build shelters. Popular support has helped regulators and the utility modernize their approaches and allows us to move more rapidly with each project. In 2019, we had two megawatts (MW) of renewable energy under various phases of development. By 2025, we have more than 30 MW. As director at Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation (NNC), 32-year-old Heather Shilton is passionately committed to ensuring communities drive the clean-energy transition. Does disinformation slow you down? We believe in telling people everything we know. For the water-power project, we identified 16 alternatives for power to Iqaluit. One of those was remaining on diesel. Every development has costs and benefits, and people have the right to make the choice. It is our experience that if we respect people's intelligence, value relationships and add technical know-how, communities will sort through the disinformation themselves. Everything we say is presented in both Inuktitut and English, and we use a lot of visuals. We allow the process to take the time it needs. What makes your work hard? Sometimes, lack of accurate data gets in our way. For example, much is made of how expensive renewables are in the North, and we require federal financial support. But diesel is also subsidized. We have been attempting to calculate the taxpayer-funded support for diesel in Nunavut for five years without success, making it harder to provide our communities with good data for their decisions. Our team is talented, passionate and feels the urgency of economic and climate change. Moving at the pace of community trust can be hard, but we know it is fundamental to a just, clean-energy transition in Nunavut. We have learned to take a longer view. What keeps you awake at night? If we don't get the way we communicate right, we risk losing community trust. It is hard to win that back. Funders are sometimes impatient with our process. Climate change is a daily reality. It's worrisome when hunters get lost because they are not able to read the ice the way they used to, due to unreliable weather patterns. What gives you hope? When an elder feels their values are prioritized for the first time in their lives, I know we are on the right track. My team is inspiring every day. We are creating energy sovereignty and good, clean jobs close to home. That feels good. What do you see if we get this right? People all over the North and across the country engage in a collective re-imagining of the kind of futures that are possible. How did the way you were raised affect you? In a high school ecology class, we read former US vice president Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth. I was terrified, but I knew that being part of the solution would guide the rest of my life. The fear galvanized me, but the desire to protect the people and places I love and help them thrive in their own ways keeps me engaged. What would you like to say to other young people? There is no better feeling than working with people who are making a difference and learning together. Check the sources of your information. Ask who might benefit from you believing it. What about older readers? It can be frustrating to hear older people say, "It's your generation that will save us.' Older people often have power and agency that are not available to younger folks. Use it to protect our future.
Hamilton Spectator
12-05-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Northern premiers look to expand horizons and opportunities during Northern Premiers' Forum
Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok says within Canada's three Northern territories exists an 'incredible opportunity'. 'We're seeing so much uncertainty around the world, right across this country, and I think one thing as Northern territories that we provide all Canadians is certainty. We have so much opportunity,' Akeeagok said. The premier recently attended the annual Northern Premiers' Forum held in Haines Junction, Yukon, joined by this years' chair Yukon premier Ranj Pillai, and NWT premier R.J. Simpson. Akeeagok said as a team of three, the premiers are pushing and demonstrating that the territories are emerging as a key region for prosperity and possibilities for growth with 'nation building projects'. 'I too, very much look forward to working very closely with the Prime Minister on implementing the vision that we want to see Canada become, and the role the North could play when you look at wanting to truly diversify our economies and building Canada so we become more resilient and prosperous,' he said. Investing in opportunity Within Nunavut, Akeeagok said the Arctic security corridor with its access over to the NWT has 'incredible critical mineral potential' that the world needs, but 'what we don't have is an investment and a partner in Ottawa to make that real. 'But we've brought in new organizations who are the proponents of that proposal. We're supporting them. We're backing them, and I very much look forward to solidifying that relationship even further with the NWT as we move forward as well.' Akeeagok went on to say they also have had a few successes in terms of connecting on projects with Manitoba and Premier Wab Kinew, one example being the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link (KHFL), being led by the Inuit-owned Nukik Corporation. The 1,200-km link between Manitoba and the Kivalliq region of Nunavut, will benefit five communities and two mines by using electricity instead of diesel fuel. 'Nunavut is the only jurisdiction that is not connected by fiber or road … so it's exciting to see that project advance. 'It takes a team to advance these projects, and I feel very honored to be able to work with the two friends that are right next to me, to be able to advance some really exciting work that really will change the fabric of this country,' he said. And with the creation of a deep-sea port on the Eastern part of the territory at the mouth of the Northwest Passage, Akeeagok said it would diversity the local economy and increase opportunities for Canada. Collaboration welcome Akeeagok said after incumbent MP Lori Idlout was re-elected to parliament, he ensured they would continue with an 'open door policy' to enable them to communicate about the nation-building projects that were underway. 'I really feel that Nunavut has so much to offer in terms of providing that certainty and that clear direction of what we could do together. She's been a strong advocate on some really exciting work,' he said. Garnering interest In terms of global interest in Canada's North, Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai said 'not a month goes by' where a consul general or ambassador doesn't come to the Yukon to discuss Canada's North. 'I think specifically Nordic countries have been really reaching out to us to talk about the opportunities of the three territories coming together, where we can work together. There's already the cultural fabric that's that binds our Indigenous Peoples across the North into Alaska, but also into Greenland and into and Nordic regions,' Pillai said. 'Beyond that is that there's a lot of Canadians, as we all know, that do not have a real strong understanding about what the Yukon is, or what happens in the Yukon, in the Northwest Territories, or Nunavut. And so we're also seeing a time when Canadians are actually taking a moment of pause to try and understand what the North is all about. So I think that's why it's pivotal, because it becomes a conversation during an election cycle,' he said. Local heroes Akeeagok said he had the pleasure of welcoming Prime Minister Mark Carney to Nunavut in his first domestic travel in the country, and was able to discuss investments such as defense, housing, and a permanent, year-round presence of the Canadian Rangers. 'They are truly the heroes. They are the eyes and the ears of the North. And we all know many of them, their family, their community members that wear many hats,' he said. 'I've had the opportunity to connect with the Rangers and to actually hear exactly where they see the need for investments, the investments into, let's say, equipment so that they could do a little longer patrols, or whether it's the support to allow them to do more of the patrols and the less paperwork is what we heard as well, to streamline some of those processes.' 'I very much look forward to continuing these conversations with the Prime Minister, and it's going to be interesting. And I very much look forward to hearing who the new or returning defense minister might be. I believe we've had a really good working relationship in identifying priorities that come from the North,' he said. Akeeagok also said that by investing in Nunavut, they will see a 'direct impact' in terms of the high cost of living in communities. 'I am very pleased to see a lot of those projects that we've identified make it into the platforms, and now we'll be very eager to see if it actually gets brought in through the first budget, but we'll be very closely looking into that. 'But I feel very optimistic that we've really seen some great momentum around a lot of those projects, but it will require those federal investments to make them happen.' Topics of discussion during the forum among the three premiers also included the health and well-being of Northerners, balancing economic growth with environmental protection as well as sustainable development practices, and support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and the fundamental right to self-expression.
CBC
16-04-2025
- Business
- CBC
Premiers Kinew, Akeeagok ink deal to build hydro transmission line from Manitoba to Nunavut
The premiers of Manitoba and Nunavut are hopeful a proposed hydroelectric and fibre optic project is moving closer to fruition, and are seeking federal money. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok have signed a memorandum to work together on the project and ask Ottawa for capital funding. The proposed Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link would see a 1,200-kilometre line built through northern Manitoba to several Nunavut communities west of Hudson Bay that currently use diesel to generate electricity. It has been talked about for years, and a recent estimate put the cost at $1.6 billion. Manitoba announced this week it would dedicate 50 megawatts from its Crown energy corporation to the project, which Kinew says is only a start. Kinew and Akeeagok met at the Manitoba Legislature and said, given the current trade dispute with the United States, there is appetite for nation-building projects and efforts to build up the North. "In terms of the price tag, these are things we'll sort out when they come to the table, which I'm sure they will," Kinew told reporters Wednesday. "We need Ottawa to be able to come to site with us as well," Akeeagok added. "All the political leaders so far have identified that there's going to be significant investments come to corridors or nation-building projects, and we really see this one aligning really well." Neither premier would say what level of funding they're seeking from the federal government. Ottawa has already put up money for early stages of the project. Last year, it announced $2.8 million for design, environmental fieldwork and other tasks. The project, put forward by the Inuit-owned Nukik Corp., could see construction begin as early as 2028. Aside from communities in Nunavut, it could also supply mines in the region and spur more economic development, backers say. Kinew says he intends to sign trade deal with Ontario The premiers of Manitoba and Nunavut weren't the only regional leaders signing trade agreements on Wednesday. Ontario Premier Doug Ford signed memorandums of understanding with the premiers of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick agreeing that a good, service or registered worker that is recognized in one province is acceptable in the other. Kinew said his meeting with Akeeagok meant he couldn't join Ford, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston and New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt at Queen's Park in Toronto on Wednesday, but he intends to also sign a memorandum of understanding. "What an amazing time to be a Canadian, where leaders from different parts of the country are stepping up to build Canada," Kinew told reporters. "We're knocking down interprovincial trade barriers and, yes, I intend to travel to Toronto and … do the same work with premier Ford just as soon as I can."
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Manitoba Hydro to redirect power exports for Canadian infrastructure
The government of the Canadian province of Manitoba has directed Manitoba Hydro to redirect 500MW of expiring electricity export contracts to support infrastructure projects within Canada. Premier Wab Kinew announced the initiative to bolster nation-building efforts, with a focus on projects such as the Kivalliq hydro-fibre link, which will receive 50MW of the redirected power. The Kivalliq hydro-fibre link infrastructure project intends to provide power and telecommunications to northern communities. The development aims to reduce reliance on diesel fuel and create economic opportunities by powering local mines. Kinew stated: 'Manitoba is a province of builders, and we are stepping up to help build our nation as we weather the economic uncertainty we are all facing right now. 'There is no better time to be partnering with other Canadian provinces and territories to build the infrastructure we need for a strong domestic economy.' Premier Kinew emphasised the importance of collaboration with the northern territory of Nunavut, the Inuit-owned Nukik corporation and other partners to advance the project and stimulate economic and cultural growth. Nukik CEO Anne-Raphaëlle Audouin stated: 'This commitment by the province of Manitoba is true nation-building that makes Canada stronger. 'Working together, we can unlock sustainable economic development opportunities, build stronger communities and support Arctic sovereignty and security. We look forward to working in partnership to build a more connected Canada." In a related development, Canada has extended its target for achieving a net-zero electricity grid from 2035 to 2050. This decision follows the release of its finalised Clean Electricity Regulations (CER) and was influenced by feedback from provinces and energy industry stakeholders. "Manitoba Hydro to redirect power exports for Canadian infrastructure" was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Manitoba Hydro to redirect power exports for Canadian infrastructure
The government of the Canadian province of Manitoba has directed Manitoba Hydro to redirect 500MW of expiring electricity export contracts to support infrastructure projects within Canada. Premier Wab Kinew announced the initiative to bolster nation-building efforts, with a focus on projects such as the Kivalliq hydro-fibre link, which will receive 50MW of the redirected power. The Kivalliq hydro-fibre link infrastructure project intends to provide power and telecommunications to northern communities. The development aims to reduce reliance on diesel fuel and create economic opportunities by powering local mines. Kinew stated: 'Manitoba is a province of builders, and we are stepping up to help build our nation as we weather the economic uncertainty we are all facing right now. 'There is no better time to be partnering with other Canadian provinces and territories to build the infrastructure we need for a strong domestic economy.' Premier Kinew emphasised the importance of collaboration with the northern territory of Nunavut, the Inuit-owned Nukik corporation and other partners to advance the project and stimulate economic and cultural growth. Nukik CEO Anne-Raphaëlle Audouin stated: 'This commitment by the province of Manitoba is true nation-building that makes Canada stronger. 'Working together, we can unlock sustainable economic development opportunities, build stronger communities and support Arctic sovereignty and security. We look forward to working in partnership to build a more connected Canada." In a related development, Canada has extended its target for achieving a net-zero electricity grid from 2035 to 2050. This decision follows the release of its finalised Clean Electricity Regulations (CER) and was influenced by feedback from provinces and energy industry stakeholders. "Manitoba Hydro to redirect power exports for Canadian infrastructure" was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
