The Northwest Territories Power Corporation, along with MP Michael McLeod, and Caroline Wawzonek, announced earlier this week that a new high-efficiency diesel plant is now open in the community of Sachs Harbour.
The new plant has replaced the previous facility, which had reached the end of its service life. The original was first constructed in 1975 and had been powering the community ever since. This new plant is expected to provide better service, while taking in less fuel and allowing for the possibility of using more renewable fuel sources in the future.
The new plant received some support from the Government of Canada in the form of a $7.4 million donation through the Arctic Energy Fund. While still being estimated, final costs are expected to round up to about $13.8 million.
In a statement, Michael McLeod said that “This new diesel power plant will increase the efficiency and reliability of electricity generation, while reducing environmental impacts by using less diesel fuel to support a cleaner, healthier environment. Upgraded and reliable energy infrastructure in Sachs Harbour is critical to improving the quality of life for hamlet residents.”
Sachs Harbour has just over 100 residents, and their electricity system isn’t connected to the North American grid.
