Tarquti’s Renewable Energy Exploration Tour
From September 9 to 12, 2024, Tarquti Energy hosted its first Renewable Energy Exploration Tour in Gaspé, bringing together 30 Nunavimmiut from 10 Nunavik communities and the entire Tarquti team. This four-day journey was designed to introduce participants to renewable energy technologies and explore their potential in Nunavik.
The tour began with a visit to the Nergica Research Centre, where participants saw solar panels, wind turbines, and a microgrid in action. Many attendees found inspiration in these technologies, envisioning how they might work in their communities.
Next, the group toured the 100.5 MW Wind Power Farm in l’Anse-à-Valleau, where the scale of wind energy became clear. The tour also featured an introduction to Caribou Ungava, where Dr. Steeve Côté, an expert in ungulate ecology, provided valuable insights into the potential effects of wind turbines on caribou in Nunavik. His presentation, drawing comparisons with wind turbine impacts on reindeer in Scandinavia, opened essential discussions on how these projects can move forward while respecting local wildlife and traditions.
The delegation also learned from the Mi’gmaq community at the Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n Wind Farm, sharing insights into how Indigenous communities can partner on energy projects. At Collegia, participants learned more about the various training programs for wind turbine technicians, watched a rescue demonstration, and heard from technicians who gave them a sense of the commitment and expertise that goes into maintaining these facilities.
Finally, visits to LM Wind Power and Ganex showcased the cutting-edge innovation behind renewable energy systems and equipment.
This Tour was made possible thanks to the Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.
In Their Own Words: Insights From the Participants
Participants were energized by the experience. “I’m happy that we, Inuit, are involved in clean energy before the North Pole is completely gone. The icebergs and snow allow us to hunt and access our land to practice our traditions,” shared one participant. Another noted, “The site visits gave us a much better understanding of how wind turbines work, making it easier to imagine them back home.”
The enthusiasm for learning was palpable: “The Tour was very eye-opening for me. I appreciate Tarquti for giving me this chance to experience all the knowledge about the wind farm industry,” said a third participant.
As Nunavik embraces clean energy, Tarquti is proud to help lead the way toward a sustainable future, preserving the land, traditions, and environment for future generations.
Read the article published by Radio Canada on the Tour: https://ici.radio-canada.ca/nouvelle/2104041/energies-renouvelables-eolien-solaire-inuit-gaspe
Read the article published by Nunatsiaq News on the Tour: https://nunatsiaq.com/stories/article/tarquti-takes-group-on-tour-of-quebec-wind-farms/
