Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to recognize the outstanding achievement of staff at Housing NWT who were recently honoured with the Community Project of the Year award from Canadian Biomass. This award celebrates the district heating wood-pellet boiler system installed at Sissons Court housing complex in Yellowknife.I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the dedicated staff of infrastructure services at Housing NWT, as well as those from the Department of Infrastructure's energy, design and technical services group, for their support and commitment.
In 2022, Sissons Court's biomass heating plant replaced 45 aging fuel-oil furnaces and now provides renewable heating to 53 public housing units. This transition to wood pellets has lowered energy costs and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, advancing the Government of the Northwest Territory's mandate to deliver affordable and sustainable housing. The project was a locally driven and supplied initiative relying on partnerships between government and the private sector. The system was designed by a northern consultant team, TAG Engineering, with assistance from a technical team at the GNWT and was installed by Hay River-based contractor Taylor and Company.
The Yellowknife Housing Authority, with assistance from the local contractor J&R Mechanical, are dedicated to the ongoing operation and maintenance of the heat plant to ensure reliable heat for residents.
The Sissons Court project was funded in part by a federal funding program called the Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund and showcases the power of collaboration between Housing NWT and local contractors. It is expected to generate significant long-term benefits, saving approximately $125,000 annually in energy costs and offsetting 300 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in its first year of operation.
Mr. Speaker, biomass energy in the form of wood pellets is an important alternative in the Northwest Territories where traditional fuels such as oil and propane are costly and prone to market volatility. As demonstrated by this project, biomass is a proven and practical solution to implementing the GNWT's commitment to net zero by 2050. This biomass award marks a meaningful step forward in Housing NWT's mission demonstrating that sustainable energy solutions can be part of how we build stronger, more resilient communities across the North. Quyananni, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Minister responsible for Housing NWT. Ministers' statements. Minister for Education, Culture and Employment.
