Kivalliq Alternative Energy
Baker Lake and Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut
Published November 1, 2023
Casey Malliki (Aulajuq LTD.) assembles solar power supply for the SoDAR wind monitoring system in Chesterfield Inlet, September 2023. PHOTO: Kailey Wright, Northern Energy Capital
Northern Energy Capital (NEC) is proud to support our partners at Kivalliq Alternative Energy (KAE) as they embark on the next critical phase of the three-year Mobile Wind Resource Assessment Project, now relocated to Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut.
In partnership with Nunasi Corporation, KAE launched the research project in Baker Lake last year, deploying a state-of-the-art Sonic Detection and Ranging (SoDAR) system. SoDAR technology uses sound waves to gather wind speed and velocity data from the surrounding area, which KAE can use to measure the potential for wind energy generation in that community.
In September, following 12 months of data collection in Baker Lake, the team successfully relocated the mobile SoDAR equipment to the second target community of Chesterfield Inlet. Over the next year, the wind monitoring technology will continue to gather data in Chesterfield Inlet, before moving to its final destination in Whale Cove in 2024.
The mobile Sound Detection and Ranging (SoDAR) device (far left) redeployed in Chesterfield Inlet along with a solar power supply (far right) and a shelter for the controls. PHOTO: Kailey Wright, Northern Energy Capital
"This successful SoDAR relocation not only marks a crucial phase in our three-year plan, but also sets the stage for an even smoother transition to Whale Cove next year," says KAE Director Malek Tawashy, "it highlights SoDAR technology's effectiveness and adaptability for wind studies on cold climates."
The goals the Mobile Wind Resource Assessment Project are twofold:
Research and Innovation: To gather precise, site-specific environmental data to support the development of future wind energy projects in the Kivalliq Region.
Capacity Building: To enhance local skills, expertise, and involvement in renewable energy projects through training and job opportunities for community members.
The KAE project team—Eugene Sevoga (PEL), Kailey Wright (NEC), Casey Malliki (Aulajuq Ltd.) and Casey (Sentrex)—decommission the SoDAR system in Baker Lake and relocate it to Chesterfield Inlet, September 2023. PHOTO: Kailey Wright, Northern Energy Capital
KAE is committed to fostering energy independance, security, and economic growith Kivalliq Region's remote, off-grid communities through renewable energy solutions. Future wind and battery storage projects in Baker Lake, Chesterfield Inlet, and Whale Cove would play a significant role in reducing reliance on imported diesel fuel, lower carbon emissions, and offer protection against fluctuating fuel costs.
By hiring and training local technicians to manage the SoDAR wind monitoring equipment, KAE is nurturing knowledge and leadership in each community, promoting Inuit participation and self-determination in northern Canada's renewable energy sector.
This wind study is funded by the Government of Canada's Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREP). Special thanks to our partners at Nunasi Corporation, Sentrex Wind Services, Peter's Expediting Limited, Aulajuq Ltd., and Green Cat Renewables Canada for their work on this project.
Stay tuned for more updates on the progress of the Mobile Wind Resource Assessment Project in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut.
Sunset view from the site of the newly installed SoDAR wind monitoring system and solar power supply in Chesterfield Inlet. PHOTO: Kailey Wright, Northern Energy Capital
About Kivalliq Alternative Energy (KAE)
Kivalliq Alternative Energy Ltd. (KAE) is leading the clean energy transformation in the Kivalliq Region for the benefit of our future generations. Our mission is to develop clean energy sources that increase our energy independence and security, nurture community benefits, grow local capacity, and lay the foundations for the Kivalliq’s clean energy future.
KAE is an Inuit-Lead Partnership between Sakku Investments Corporation (SIC) and Northern Energy Capital (NEC). SIC is the development corporation of the Kivalliq Inuit Association and an Inuit Birthright Corporation. NEC is a renewable energy development company established to empower northern and remote communities in their transition from fossil fuel consumption to clean energy asset ownership.
About Northern Energy Capital (NEC)
Northern Energy Capital is a renewable energy development company, established in 2015, dedicated to empowering northern and remote communities in their transition from fossil fuel consumption to clean energy asset ownership. NEC is the development partner of choice for off-grid and remote communities that seek to achieve energy independence through locally owned and locally produced renewable energy.
Are you interested in working with Northern Energy Capital on your next renewable energy project? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at contact@northernenergycapital.com or 250-213-8185 to learn more about how we can help you achieve your energy goals.