FORT
PROVIDENCE, NT, June 28,
2024 /CNW/ - Many of Canada's rural and remote communities rely on
diesel fuel to generate electricity — an energy source that comes
with environmental, social and economic disadvantages. The
Government of Canada is committed
to transitioning to clean energy and to creating greater economic
opportunity for communities.
That is why today, Michael
McLeod, Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories, on behalf of the
Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural
Resources, announced $353,710 through the Clean Energy for Rural
and Remote Communities Program to evaluate the potential of
hydrokinetic turbines for generating electricity in Deh Cho communities.
This initiative, led by Big River Service Centre LP in
partnership with the Canadian Hydrokinetic Turbine Testing Centre
(CHTTC) and Gonezu Energy Corporation, will involve the proponents
conducting site assessments and fostering collaboration and
engagement with local communities as they explore the possibility
of a transition from diesel to hydrokinetic energy
sources.
The data will evaluate the benefits associated with the
implementation of hydrokinetic-based micro-grid
systems and support sustainable communities by
enhancing the collective knowledge of their potential to
reduce diesel use in remote communities across Canada.
This investment reaffirms the Government of Canada's commitment to supporting Indigenous
leadership and remote communities in the Northwest Territories as they develop
innovative clean energy solutions to displace fossil fuels, advance
self-determination and combat climate change.
Quotes
"Communities across Canada
deserve to have access to the resources they need to reduce
emissions, increase energy efficiency and displace fossil fuels.
That is why the Government of Canada is committed to working with Indigenous
communities to build the necessary capacity and acquire the
expertise needed to advance clean energy and low-carbon energy
solutions."
The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
"This is a critically important development for our region that
could help reduce reliance on diesel for energy and benefit the
entire community economically. Congratulations to the organizations
that are leading this: Big River Service Centre LP, the Canadian
Hydrokinetic Turbine Testing Centre (CHTTC) and Gonezu Energy
Corporation, on their vision for improved energy access in our
communities."
Michael McLeod
Member of Parliament for Northwest
Territories
Related Information
- Big River Service Centre LP
- Canadian Hydrokinetic Turbine Testing Centre
- Gonezu Energy Corporation
- Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities
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SOURCE Natural Resources Canada