An Inuit community installs Nunavut's first wind turbine

Written By Peter Allan

Clara Phillips and Marie Kunuk-Allen in Sanikiluaq. Photo submitted by: Clara Phillips

 

By Patricia Lane & Clara Phillips

Clara Phillips is helping Nunavut return to quiet. As development project manager at Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation, this 25-year-old engineer-in-training from Newfoundland is leading the installation of Nunavut’s first wind turbine and battery. When the conditions are right, the noisy diesel generators that characterize life in the North today will be turned off. Silence will reign. 

Tell us about your project.

In 2016, the people of Sanikiluaq had a vision of renewable energy in their community. Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation (“NNC”), a 100-per-cent, Inuit-owned renewable energy developer is bringing that vision to fruition with wind and battery power chosen by the community. These will cut the demand for diesel required for electricity by at least 50 per cent and offer social, economic and environmental benefits for all.

From 2023 to 2024, we built the five-kilometre road from town to the turbine site. The turbine will be installed this summer and be operational in late 2025.

The people of Sanikiluaq (Sanikiluarmiut) have been consulted every step of the way. They must say “Yes” four times for the project to be built. Although this slows things down and adds expense, this level of engagement leads to much better outcomes and deep community support. For example, the turbine site was chosen in collaboration with the community. The road was built by a local, Inuit-owned construction contractor and is already making life in the community easier. Twenty per cent of the profits will be returned to the community for use as they decide. Ideas that are being discussed include: a new playground, hosting a youth program, toys and books for the community centre.

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Peter Allan
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