QEC decommissions fuel system at Arctic Bay’s old power plant

The fuel system from Arctic Bay’s old power plant is being decommissioned, starting today, causing daytime noise the hamlet’s residents might notice.

The fuel system at the old power plant is being decommissioned because it is no longer being used, Qulliq Energy Corp. spokesperson Bibi Bilodeau said in an email.

Environment and Climate Change Canada regulations require that all storage tank systems and their components be safely removed once they are permanently withdrawn from service.

The new power plant in Arctic Bay is active and was fully commissioned on Dec 21, 2021.

If the old fuel tank passes an American Petroleum Institute inspection, it will be repurposed, Bilodeau said. All other useful components from the old power plant will also be repurposed.

The decommissioning work will continue until July 30.

Heavy equipment and the power tools used to dismantle and transport components may cause noise levels to rise during working hours, but operations will cease by evening, QEC advised.

No roadblocks or road closures are planned.

The affected areas where decommissioning work will take place are highlighted in yellow on the map below.

Arctic Bay’s old power plant plant fuel system will be decommissioned from Friday through July 30 in the area highlighted in yellow on the map, Qulliq Energy Corp. is advising residents. (Image courtesy of Qulliq Energy Corp.)