Residents in Inuvik, N.W.T., have been urged to conserve energy by lowering their home heating and finding alternative ways to decrease energy consumption due to a limited propane supply in the area. Inuvik Gas Ltd. issued a notice on Tuesday afternoon advising residents to reduce their reliance on propane for the upcoming days, citing an unexpected reduction in fuel supply and challenging weather conditions affecting road access.
Despite not specifying the exact status of the local supply, Inuvik Gas emphasized the necessity for the community to cut back on propane usage temporarily. The temperature in Inuvik dropped to -44 C on Tuesday evening, as reported by Environment Canada.
In an effort to address the situation, Inuvik Gas is collaborating with the town of Inuvik, as well as the Yukon and N.W.T. governments, to facilitate the delivery of propane and bolster the supply. Mayor Peter Clarkson mentioned that two propane resupply trucks had already reached Inuvik, following an escort through the temporarily closed section of the Dempster Highway by Yukon highways personnel.
The transportation of fuel to Inuvik is typically conducted through Yukon via the Dempster Highway, which had been inaccessible until Tuesday afternoon. Subsequently, the N.W.T. Department of Infrastructure declared the closure of the highway from Eagle Plains to Fort McPherson, N.W.T., due to severe blizzard conditions on Tuesday evening.
Upon the arrival of propane in Inuvik, it undergoes conversion into natural gas for household heating and cooking purposes. While Inuvik Gas did not immediately confirm the arrival of resupply trucks on Tuesday evening, the company assured that a comprehensive statement was in preparation.
Mayor Clarkson highlighted the collaborative efforts of various government levels in Yukon and N.W.T. to ensure the timely delivery of propane to Inuvik, emphasizing the urgent need to address the propane shortage amidst extreme weather conditions.
In the interim, residents are advised by Inuvik Gas to maintain a manageable temperature in their homes by reducing propane usage and opting for alternative heating sources like diesel, wood, or electric heating. Additional energy-saving measures recommended include refraining from using ovens excessively, taking shorter showers, keeping blinds or drapes closed to preserve heat indoors, and working remotely to lower heating requirements in office buildings.