"While I can say we are open, we aren't ready to handle a large number of requests," he said.

A non-profit organization created in July 1997, the alliance hopes to reduce the costs and environmental impacts of the production and consumption of energy and utilities in the North.

Members come from a number of companies, both private and public, which all have an interest in energy and utilities consumption and conservation.

Groups represented on the alliance's board of directors include the NWT Power Corporation, NWT Public Utilities Board and the GNWT Department of Resources, Wildlife, and Economic Development.

The objectives of the alliance include strategic planning, public awareness and education, and energy-efficient retrofitting.

The alliance is developing a strategic plan, which Marshall said is expected to be completed by the end of March. Through the strategic plan, the alliance hopes to establish itself as an independent, third-party point of view on energy-related issues.

Individuals or groups who are interested in using the services of the Arctic Energy Alliance will be able to obtain independent analysis, recognition of available options, providing strategic planning and help co-ordinate projects and initiatives.

A public information campaign will also be a one of the alliance's goals, with the development and distribution of information sheets and technical information, as well as the creation of a Web site and the organization of seminars and workshops.

Although information will be the alliance's greatest tool, Marshall added that projects will also be directed towards the replacement of energy-inefficient machinery and equipment with newer, energy-efficient technology. The alliance will work to help customers find information on new technologies, as well as available sources of funding and qualified contractors.

The offices of the Arctic Energy Alliance are located in Yellowknife and have been open since the beginning of the year.