Rankin Inlet (Aug 02/06) - The highly anticipated residual-heat program is moving one-step closer to reality in Rankin Inlet.

Workers are ready to install the underground piping system which will bring residual heat from the local generating station to 10 buildings in the community.

The contract calls for the system to be online early in the new year, but Qulliq Energy Corp. personnel are optimistic it will be operational before the end of 2006.

Residual heating refers to the practice of generating steam or hot water at a central location, and then distributing it through a series of pipes to homes and businesses.

The practice has proven to be a major contributor to greenhouse gas reduction and its importance is growing.

Qulliq is predicting once it's operational, the residual-heat project in Rankin will displace 950,000 litres of heating fuel annually.

The buildings scheduled to be hooked up to the system are the new regional health facility, Nunavut Power Plant, Siniktarvik building, Sakku building, Royal Bank and post office building, Ilaqiktuk Centre (PPD offices), Tapariit building (health board), Kivalliq Hall, Alaittuq school, water-treatment plant and the arena.

Buildings hooked up to residual heat will save 10 per cent on their energy bill.

Rankin Coun. Ron Roach was disappointed with the low turnout at information sessions held at council chambers and the Siniktarvik Hotel this past week.

"I thought more people would have shown up for both the hamlet and the public meeting," said Roach. "The turnout was very poor."

Roach said the hamlet will be quite happy to knock 10 per cent off of its annual power bill at the arena.

He said 10 per cent has been the watermark for savings since discussions on the residual-heat program first began about four years ago. "Anyway the municipality can go out and get a savings of 10 per cent to spend elsewhere on the hamlet is a good deal.

"Our energy bill is quite high at the arena and 10 per cent represents a significant savings for the hamlet."