Paulatuk, located in the Northwest Territories, prides itself as the Arctic’s south wind capital with a rich history of utilizing the strong southerly winds for various purposes. These winds have powered boats, provided directional cues from snowdrift patterns, and aided in drying meat for storage. In line with their aspiration to achieve carbon neutrality, the community aims to convert this wind energy into electricity.
As part of this ambitious goal, it is crucial to ensure that households do not squander this valuable energy. Lily-Ann Green, a member of the Paulatuk Energy Working Group, emphasized the importance of addressing energy wastage in homes. Many residents lack proper weather stripping on doors and windows, leading to energy inefficiencies throughout the year.
Kourtney and Stacy Wolkie, residents of a Housing N.W.T. unit, have been facing challenges due to unresolved maintenance issues such as missing cupboard doors and faulty window latches. They resort to sealing their drafty front door with silicone for several months each year, posing safety concerns in case of emergencies.
A report from the 2024 N.W.T. Bureau of Statistics revealed that nearly half of the homes in Paulatuk face core housing needs, indicating inadequacies in suitability, adequacy, and affordability. To combat these issues, Paulatuk envisions a renewable energy project incorporating wind turbines, solar panels, and a battery storage system.
While supporting the renewable energy project, Green stresses the significance of improving housing conditions to avoid wasting clean electricity. The community’s energy plan, Sivulliit Energy, prioritizes enhancing housing efficiency to complement the transition to renewable energy sources.
The plan also includes a housing research project in partnership with the National Research Council and Housing N.W.T. Devices will be installed in select homes to gather data on fuel and electricity usage, with the aim of providing recommendations to the N.W.T. government based on the findings.
Furthermore, a housing and energy efficiency course is being organized to educate residents on winterizing homes and reducing energy consumption without compromising comfort. This initiative aligns with the community’s goal of fostering energy-efficient and culturally appropriate housing solutions suited for the local climate.
Green eagerly anticipates the upcoming course, emphasizing the importance of empowering residents with knowledge and tools to lower energy costs. The community’s proactive approach towards sustainable energy and housing improvements reflects their commitment to a greener and more resilient future.