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Off-Grid Communities: A Quest for Energy Autonomy
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Room 402 - Ministère de l'Économie, de l'Innovation et de l'Énergie
This session will focus on the energy transition of off-grid communities in Quebec, with emphasis on energy autonomy from the local perspective. We will explore the technological, environmental, and socio-economic challenges these communities face in their shift toward renewable energy sources. The speakers will discuss climate plans, energy audits, renewable energy production projects, as well as other ongoing or upcoming initiatives. Participants will learn, through concrete examples, the key factors for ensuring a successful and sustainable transition.
This session will be offered in French and in English.
1:30 p.m.
Co-benefits of the Naskapi Climate Change Action Plan
Conference details
The Naskapi Climate Change Action Plan promotes renewable energy solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This conference will emphasize the importance of partnerships between local communities and industry players, highlighting the socio-economic benefits and co-benefits associated with this initiative.
1:45 p.m.
Autonomous energy networks and resilience: Challenges, Solutions, and Innovations in the Magdalen Islands
Conference details
Through the example of the Magdalen Islands, we explore the challenges of fossil fuel dependence, local renewable energy initiatives, and how the resilience of remote communities can be strengthened by an integrated vision of energy. This conference provides an overview of local strategies to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, while exploring the integration of renewable energy, resource management, and the transition towards sustainable buildings. Through a concrete green building showcase, we will examine the barriers and drivers of local energy transition, while identifying opportunities for innovation. Ultimately, the conference highlights the potential of a holistic approach to projects and the central role that communities can play in creating relevant and adapted energy solutions.
2:00 p.m.
Tarquti Leading Nunavik’s Energy Transition
3:00 p.m.
The Great Whale River Wind Park Project
Matthew Mukash
Kuujjuaraapik Whapmagoostui Renewable Energy Corporation
Conference details
The Great Whale River Wind Park is a project that will install two wind turbines in the twin Cree and Inuit communities of Whapmagoostui and Kuujjuaraapik to meet 30% of electricity demand. The presentation will take stock of the current state of the project and show how the Crees and Inuits are working together to meet the challenges of building a project using a local and clean resource, for and by themselves.
3:15 p.m.
Biomass cogeneration plant project
Conference details
Cogeneration project using forest biomass from the Opitciwan sawmill to reduce diesel consumption at Hydro-Québec’s thermal power plant by 85%. Commissioning scheduled for fall 2026.
3:30 p.m.
The Innavik Hydro Project and Next Steps for Inukjuak’s Energy Transition
Conference details
The Innavik hydroelectric project involves the construction of a 7.5 MW run-of-river hydroelectric facility. With an estimated construction cost of $125 million, it will replace nearly 100% of the diesel used to produce electricity and heat in the community of Inukjuak. This facility will have a significant positive impact on local socio-economic development.
3:45 p.m.
Panel
Matthew Mukash
Kuujjuaraapik Whapmagoostui Renewable Energy Corporation
4:15 p.m.
End of the session
