The investment supports Phase III engineering and design for the Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit project.

The Canadian government has announced a federal investment of $6m over five years to support the renewable energy developer Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation (NNC) in the development of a hydropower project near Iqaluit, the capital of the Canadian territory of Nunavut.

NNC is 100% owned by Inuit, Indigenous people inhabiting the Arctic regions of Canada. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, the regional Inuit Economic Development Corporation for the Qikiqtani region owned by the Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA).

The investment was announced by Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency. (CanNor).

The Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit project is part of the country’s commitment to bolster northern infrastructure by promoting the long-term energy security and economic growth of Nunavut.”

The project will feature a 15MW to 30MW traditional hydropower facility 60km northeast of Iqaluit.

The proposed project site on the Kuugaluk (McKeand River South) was selected after extensive analysis and public consultations in previous project phases.

The project has garnered support from the government of Nunavut, the QIA and the city of Iqaluit.

CanNor is investing in the project through the Inclusive Diversification and Economic Advancement in the North programme. Federal funding is conditional upon the signing of a funding agreement.

The investment will aid the NNC in Phase III front-end engineering and design work for the project.

This encompasses tasks such as gathering field data, navigating regulatory processes, conducting engineering and design work, developing financial models and maintaining public engagement.

Anandasangaree stated: “By advancing local renewable energy solutions, we are helping to create good jobs, reduce emissions, and strengthen energy independence for Iqaluit and the territory.”

The investment builds on $7m provided by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada’s Northern REACHE programme over three years from in 2021 to support early feasibility activities.

Nunavut premier PJ Akeeagok stated: “This Qikiqtani Inuit Association-led project initiated in 2005 is a long-term plan to supply a sustainable, affordable and reliable source of energy in Nunavut’s capital. This nation-building initiative would decrease Nunavut’s carbon footprint, reduce our territory’s reliance on diesel fuel and provide Nunavut’s capital with a renewable energy supply.

“Iqaluit Hydroelectric would signal a decisive move towards clean energy and self-sufficiency for Nunavut. These investments are extremely timely, as now, more than ever before, we need to look at investing in our own country’s energy security and bolstering our economy.”