The Government of the Northwest Territories, the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, and the Government of Canada have announced that they will be in local energy infrastructure in Fort Simpson.
The federal government will be contributing more than $31 million through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program’s Arctic Energy Fund and NTPC will be providing over $10 million towards a new liquefied natural gas power plant.
“By investing in modern energy infrastructure, we’re supporting the people of Fort Simpson as they raise their families, grow their businesses, and build a stronger future,” said Minister Rebecca Alty.
The new plant will help support the community and reduce their reliance on diesel as the existing diesel plant nears the end of its operational life and becomes increasingly vulnerable to erosion along the Mackenzie River.
“The new plant will resolve several issues that will enhance quality of life for our Fort Simpson customers, including a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, less noise in the community and places the new plant away from the riverbank, which has seen erosion over the years,” said NTPC President and CEO Cory Strang.
The new plant, forecasted to run on 90% LNG, will include two 1.6 MW LNG generators as well as back-up diesel generators, LNG storage, bulk diesel fuel storage, and a substation.
It will help improve energy reliability and energy security for the community, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a part of the GNWT’s 2030 Energy Strategy.
“Investments in reliable infrastructure create a stronger foundation for local opportunities and help position communities for long-term growth and prosperity,” said Minister Caroline Wawzonek.
