Big River LP, a corporation wholly owned by the Metis, has secured funding of $353,710 from Natural Resources Canada’s “Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities” program for a river characterization study. This study explores the Mackenzie River’s potential to produce energy using an in-stream turbine.
The Canadian Hydrokinetic Turbine Testing Centre (CHTTC) is spearheading the research. As a non-profit research institute, CHTTC is affiliated with the University of Manitoba, with Dr. Bibeau at the helm of the research efforts. Hydrokinetic energy, a non-interruptible and zero-carbon technology, harnesses the natural flow of rivers to produce electricity. Although still in the early stages of development, CHTTC has successfully installed a hydrokinetic unit in the Winnipeg River, which is submersible and capable of operating throughout the season, even under ice.
The CHTTC will study how a microgrid in Fort Providence affects the community’s energy use. Northland Utilities supplies electricity to Fort Providence.
If the technology is deemed feasible and Big River can secure funding for the project, it aims to become the first company in the NWT to achieve zero-carbon status using hydrokinetic technology.
Mackenzie River flows will be measured in four communities: Fort Providence, Fort Simpson, Fort Wrigley, and Jean Marie River. Jason Collard of Gonezu Energy will lead the community consultations, which are expected to begin shortly.
The river characterization study is scheduled for July. NRCan Funds will also cover the hiring of four local interns. The intern program includes coursework and a site visit to observe the CHTTC hydrokinetic turbine in operation.
