IQALUIT, Nunavut (March 22, 2017) – Qulliq Energy Corporation (QEC) is pleased to announce that it will be replacing all conventional streetlights in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet, Cambridge Bay and Kugluktuk with energy efficient LED (Light Emitting Diode) streetlights before the end of 2017.
The decision to switch to LED lighting is the result of a pilot project conducted in 2015 that measured the performance of several energy efficient streetlight options.
“I am very pleased with QEC’s adoption of this environmentally friendly technology as not only will LEDs save money in the long-term, they also reduce our carbon footprint and improve road safety,” said the Honourable Johnny Mike, Minister responsible for Qulliq Energy Corporation. “I would also like to acknowledge Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada for supporting QEC’s energy conservation efforts and helping to improve Nunavut’s street lighting infrastructure.”
LED streetlights offer a number of advantages over conventional streetlights. Along with energy savings, LEDs last five times longer than conventional lights, allowing significant savings in operational and maintenance costs. LEDs are also brighter resulting in improved visibility on the roads during the winter season.
“Energy conservation is a key component of QEC’s strategic goal to help reduce Nunavut’s energy consumption and carbon emissions. We are excited to expand the LED streetlight project into other communities and our plan is to continue extending this project to the rest of Nunavut,” said Bruno Pereira, President and Chief Executive Officer of QEC.
QEC continues to seek new ways to increase energy efficiency in its operations and to ensure a cost-effective and sustainable energy future for Nunavut.