Funding totalling around $60 million has been approved for the construction of a new transmission line in Fort Providence and Kakisa in Canada’s Northwest Territories that connects the communities to the existing Taltson hydropower transmission system south of Hay River.
The Government of Canada is investing $45 million in this project through the Arctic Energy Fund, which supports energy security in northern communities. The Government of Northwest Territories is investing up to $15 million in this project.
This project will reduce diesel fuel consumption by approximately one million litres and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 2.75 kilotonnes. Additionally, the transmission line will allow the surrounding areas to have access to an energy source, including the nearby Dory Point service area.
"Access to reliable sources of energy is essential for northern communities to thrive. This new transmission line will provide a reliable and efficient source of energy for the communities of Fort Providence and Kakisa,” commented Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories, on behalf of the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “Canada's Infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates good jobs across Canada, and builds cleaner, more inclusive communities."
"Climate change is a serious challenge for our economy and for all levels of government. By partnering with Canada, local and Indigenous governments and organizations and communities on energy projects like the Fort Providence-Kakisa Transmission Line, the GNWT is taking action that will Improve electricity reliability while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and stabilizing energy costs,” added The Honourable Diane Archie, Northwest Territories' Minister of Infrastructure
