Energy transition in Nunavik : historic partnership between the Inuit and Hydro-Québec

Tarquti Energy Inc. (Tarquti) and Hydro-Québec have reached a partnership agreement for Nunavik’s move toward clean energy. This unique partnership is an important milestone for the Inuit of Nunavik, who are developing the tools and capacity they need to design their own environmentally friendly clean energy projects that are respectful of Nunavimmiut’s values.

Under the partnership agreement, Tarquti becomes Hydro-Québec’s preferred and exclusive partner for renewable energy projects in Nunavik, which will allow clean energy to replace a significant proportion of the energy generated from fossil fuels in the region’s off-grid systems. The future promises that more clean energy sources will be supplying the communities of Nunavik and that several local and regional jobs will be created.

The announcement was proudly delivered by Tarquti shareholders’s representatives, Makivik President Pita Aatami, Ilagiisaq Vice-president Charlie Tukkiapik, as well as Hydro-Québec’s President and Chief Executive Officer Sophie Brochu and her team.

“Today we celebrate the collaboration between Hydro-Quebec and the Inuit of Nunavik,” said Pita Aatami, President of Makivik Corporation. “The success of the energy transition depends on the involvement of all major players in the clean-energy sector as well as our local and regional organizations, including the landholding corporations. In fact, with our exclusive relationship with Hydro Quebec, Tarquti is in the best position to develop and share its expertise for the benefit of our communities.”

“There’s no doubt that Hydro-Québec’s openness and willingness to listen played a major role in the conclusion of this historic agreement. A special thank you goes out to Sophie and her team for an open dialogue and working with Tarquti in this complex process,” remarked Mary Johannes, President of Ilagiisaq.

This approach supports Hydro-Québec’s strategy to convert its off-grid systems to attain an 80% renewable supply by 2030.

“On behalf of Hydro-Québec, I wish to emphasize the commitment, motivation and determination of our partner, Tarquti, and its desire to ensure that clean energy projects in Nunavik are developed and fully owned and operated by local and regional communities,” said Sophie Brochu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hydro-Québec. “This agreement is tangible proof of our plan to support Indigenous communities that wish to take charge of their development projects, and we will offer our support and expertise along the way. We believe the energy transition of off-grid systems can only be implemented by and for the people most impacted by it,” Ms. Brochu added.

About Tarquti Energy

Established in 2017, Tarquti is a Nunavik-owned company that carries out clean-energy projects adapted to the needs and interests of each of the communities in Nunavik all while promoting local job creation. Tarquti is leading Nunavik’s energy transition and planning for a better future for the region that is environmentally friendly and respects Inuit values.

About Hydro-Québec’s off-grid systems

Hydro-Québec operates approximately 20 thermal generating stations to supply electricity to remote communities that cannot be connected to the main grid. While these facilities account for only a very small portion of the power generated by Hydro-Québec (less than 1%), they are responsible for about 43% of its greenhouse gas emissions. Hydro-Québec aims to convert its off-grid systems to attain an 80% renewable supply by 2030.

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For requests for an interview or additional information, please contact:

Janice Grey
Communications and Community Engagement Manager
Tarquti Energy
janice.grey@tarquti.ca
514 707-9477

Francis Labbé
Spokesperson
Hydro-Québec
labbe.francis@hydroquebec.com
514 268-1394