The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has announcedthe signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the proposed Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link to Nunavut from Manitoba. The proposed project would provide renewable, sustainable, and reliable hydroelectricity and broadband connectivity to communities and industry in the territory for the first time.
The news come almost one year after a news report emerged suggesting the CIB was conducting due diligence on the project to analyze its investment potential.
The MOU confirms the CIB will work with the Kivalliq Inuit Association (KIA), Sakku Investments Corporation (Sakku), Anbaric Development Partners (Anbaric), and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan (OTPP) on planning and development of the proposed project.
The CIB’s advisory role is consistent with its commitment to collaborate with the private and public sectors with a long-term vision in mind – being a catalyst for new, transformational infrastructure benefitting Canada.
“This is the CIB’s ninth project, the first one to connect two jurisdictions and two priority sectors – green infrastructure and broadband. The CIB is excited to be part of the planning and assessment of a project focused on Nunavut’s environment and its economy,” said Pierre Lavallée, President and CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank.
Project Vision
The proposed Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link involves the construction of a new 1,200-kilometre, 150-megawatt transmission line between Nunavut and Manitoba. The project would deliver hydroelectric energy to the region. It also aims to reduce the area’s dependence on diesel power generation using shipped-in fuel. The hydroelectric transmission line would provide five Kivalliq communities and several mine sites with environmentally sustainable energy and has the potential to create economic benefits for Nunavut.
Fibreoptic cabling is also included in the project. This would bring broadband connectivity to the region for the first time, enhancing telecommunications services for residents, businesses and public services.
“Northerners must be part of long-term solutions that address both local concerns and global challenges,” said Minister of Northern Affairs Daniel Vandal. “The Inuit-led Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link project would bring clean energy and connectivity to Nunavummiut in five communities and to two operating mines. Our government is proud to support the collaboration of northern partners – particularly Indigenous partners – along with private-sector investment. This is an example of working together to unlock northern potential and advance the process of reconciliation.”
