From October 1st to November 16, 2022, Tarquti conducted a first regional survey. Its goals were to assess Nunavimmiut’s understanding of clean energy and their interest in it and to determine priorities and concerns around the development of such projects in the region. A total of 92 respondents from 13 Nunavik communities and beyond submitted their answers. Amongst this group, 60% were aged between 25 and 44 years old, and 75% were JBNQA beneficiaries.
Tarquti is satisfied with the turnout of this survey as it gives its team the first accurate portrait of the Nunavut population’s overall interest in clean energy. The team is hopeful that the survey results are representative of Nunavimmiut in general because when comparing the results between respondents who “are moderately or very much aware of Tarquti’s activities” to “slightly aware to not aware,” the impressive interest in the energy transition and the overall survey results are similar.
Thus, the results show that:
- 95% of respondents “believe clean energy is a positive economic solution for Nunavik.”
- 83% of respondents are “somewhat to very much interested in clean energy topics.”
- 92% of respondents believe that “Nunavik communities can produce their own energy.”
- 90% of respondents “believe that switching from fossil fuels to clean energy will benefit Nunavimmiut.”
- 69% of respondents stated that they are “somewhat to very much concerned about the negative impacts of fossil fuels on the environment.”
- 81% of respondents stated that they are “somewhat to very much willing to implement energy-saving initiatives at home.”
- Wind energy sources appear to be the preferred clean energy source amongst respondents, followed by solar energy, Geothermal and biomass seem to be less desirable.
According to Nunavimmiut, the top concerns regarding the development of clean energy infrastructure in Nunavik are the potential impacts on the environment (on land, wildlife, fish, birds, mammals, etc.); on the health and financial state of the people; and on water pollution.
When asked, “what do you hope will never change in Nunavik regarding the development of clean energy,” respondents were a majority to state that the need to protect wildlife, water, and lands was essential as we move forward. Several people also hope to see more research and money invested into sustainable development and to see their leaders continuing to treat the energy transition as a priority.
Tarquti’s goal for 2023 is to continue to gauge the interest and commitment of Nunavik communities to understand the region’s needs in clean energy solutions.
