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Net-zero transition strategies in rural, remote, and Indigenous
communities can’t be one-dimensional—especially given the lack
of capacity and funding that many of these communities face. These
strategies must deliver multiple bene昀椀ts, from reducing carbon emissions
to improving health, housing, and local economies. For instance,
community-owned renewable energy projects do more than reduce
emissions and improve reliability. They also create jobs, foster energy
sovereignty, and provide long-term revenue that can be reinvested into
other community priorities. Similarly, energy-e昀케cient housing retro昀椀ts
go beyond reducing energy use—they lower utility bills, improve indoor
air quality, decrease health risks, and enhance mental well-being.
THE VUNTUT GWITCHIN FIRST NATION AND
CANADIAN UTILITIES, AN ATCO COMPANY,
LED THE DEVELOPMENT OF CANADA’S MOST
NORTHERLY OFF-GRID SOLAR PROJECT IN THE
REMOTE YUKON COMMUNITY OF OLD CROW.
(CNW GROUP/ATCO LTD.)
A compelling example of this approach is the Old Crow Solar Project in
the Yukon, a collaborative e昀昀ort between the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, ATCO, and a clean energy consulting 昀椀rm, showcasing the power of
partnership in delivering diverse co-bene昀椀ts of net-zero initiatives. This
project not only reduces local diesel use by 190,000 litres annually, cutting
750 tonnes of carbon dioxide, but it also improves air quality, creates jobs,
fosters economic development, enables community ownership, and reduces noise pollution. It’s a clear example of how e昀昀ective community-driven
collaboration addresses environmental, social, and economic challenges.
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