Arctic communities, challenged by the harsh climate and a lack of local energy resources, are often confronted with finding more sustainable solutions for power and energy. Due to their isolated nature, reductions in energy or fuel use can have important implications for operating costs, security, and energy independence. While high performance buildings have received significant attention in more populated areas, there has been less work done on the opportunities and challenges for these buildings in the Canadian High Arctic. Providing cost-effective logistical support for researchers in the high Arctic, the Polar Continental Shelf Program has operated a field logistics support hub in Resolute, Nunavut since 1958. With increased demand for logistical support and training over the past decade, the Resolute facility has undergone two significant recent expansions. The facility now contains over 7,400 metres squares of living and working space including the Martin Bergmann Complex (provides accommodations for over 237 people), the Operations Centre (warehouse storage, mechanical shops and offices) and the Dr. Roy “Fritz†Koerner Laboratory. With the increased operational requirements, the facility has seen a significant increase in energy use, greenhouse gas emissions and ultimately utility costs. As such, there is a strong desire to reduce energy use and provide for more sustainable facility operations. As the Polar Continental Shelf Program Resolute facility is fairly energy efficient (1.0 GJ/m²) and well maintained, to achieve deep energy savings it is necessary to examine the impact of more innovative strategies, including the integration of cogeneration and heat pump systems. This paper will present an analysis of different energy efficient technologies and strategies for high performance buildings in the Canadian High Arctic. Thus, a comprehensive energy efficiency analysis is performed using the TRNSYS energy simulation tool. First, detailed energy models of the current facilities are developed and calibrated using monitored data. These energy models then form the base for an analysis of innovative energy efficiency strategies including the integration of onsite cogeneration, cold climate heat pumps, and solar integrated technologies. Each strategy is then examined within a techno-economic framework to determine potential utility cost savings, GHG reductions, and simple payback periods. These results provide an important base for the discussion of future high performance buildings in the Canadian High Arctic
