To ensure local residents benefit from the reduction in energy costs, the department is continuing its support for the project by providing funding to help residential consumers switch to natural gas heating. Heating conversion costs are high and result in a substantial initial cash outlay for the consumer. Inuvik Gas Limited will provide a matching grant. This program will result in the reduction of residential energy costs in Inuvik. It also allows the Northwest Territories to demonstrate its commitment to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Natural gas is considered to be a cleaner burning fuel than either oil or diesel.
This switch from diesel to natural gas will result in a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Mr. Speaker, over 150 people have been invited to Inuvik to join the grand opening celebrations over a three day period. On Friday, September 10, there will be ribbon cutting ceremonies at the sites for the Inuvik Gas Ltd. and the NWT Power Corporation. The Honourable Floyd Roland, MLA for Inuvik will attend on behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the parties involved in this project.