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Geothermal greenhouse in Reykholt, Iceland
Geothermal greenhouse in Reykholt, Iceland
© Jesse Delgrosse / The Capital Collective

Building Capacity Through the Arctic Remote Energy Network Academy

May 12, 2025
КлиматРабочая группа по устойчивому развитию в Арктике
Empowering Communities with Clean Energy Capacity

Article by:
Sarah Cox and Elisaveta Robertova, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Remote Arctic communities face unique challenges in accessing sustainable, affordable energy. The Arctic Remote Energy Network Academy (ARENA) addresses these challenges by equipping local leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks to develop clean energy solutions. Through a blend of hands-on learning, site visits and inter-regional collaboration, ARENA is contributing to the creation of a sustainable energy future for the Arctic.

The Arctic is defined by harsh weather, remote communities and unique environmental conditions. These challenges make access to reliable and affordable energy difficult, forcing many communities to depend on costly and environmentally harmful imported diesel fuel. Yet, the resilience and ingenuity of Arctic communities and Indigenous Peoples are equally remarkable. They’re turning to local renewable resources to meet their energy needs. By adopting clean energy solutions, they aim to reduce fossil fuel reliance, lower costs and minimize environmental impacts.

The Arctic Remote Energy Network Academy (ARENA), an initiative of the Arctic Council’s Sustainable Development Working Group (SDWG), plays a vital role in this transition. ARENA provides the knowledge, skills and networks needed to design and implement renewable energy systems suited to the unique needs of Arctic communities.

Endorsed by Canada, the United States and Iceland at SDWG, ARENA was created to address the urgent need for reliable, affordable and sustainable energy in remote Arctic communities. Supported by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, the Alaska Center for Energy and Power, and GRO Geothermal Training Programme, ARENA offers a comprehensive program that integrates training, mentorship and site visits to renewable energy projects in Arctic communities. The initiative focuses on the development and operation of energy networks in remote areas, giving participants the skills and knowledge to lead positive change.

7.5 MW run-of-river hydroelectric facility in Nunavik, QC
© Jesse Delgrosse / The Capital Collective

ARENA’s first pilot program, launched in 2017, brought together participants from across the Arctic. These "energy champions" engaged in hands-on learning through site visits to renewable energy projects in Alaska, Canada and Iceland. Participants explored clean energy technologies and collaborated on feasibility studies to address energy challenges in their own communities. One participant reflected, “We were introduced to many different projects in the North and learned that anything is possible.”

Building on the pilot’s success, ARENA II expanded its reach and fostered broader collaboration across Arctic stakeholders. During this iteration, Gwich’in Council International joined as a co-lead, strengthening the program’s engagement with Arctic communities. Over three and a half years, the program navigated challenges like pandemic delays, a pause in Arctic Council activities and a shift in its delivery format. Despite these setbacks, ARENA II was completed successfully, and participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many emphasizing the importance of community site visits and continued alumni engagement.

In its third iteration (2023–2025), ARENA III, now joined by the Aleut International Association as a co-lead, continues to expand its influence. With all onsite visits completed in Alaska, Canada, Greenland and Iceland, participants gained unique insights into renewable energy solutions such as solar, wind, microgrid and geothermal technologies.

Central to ARENA’s success is its emphasis on inter-regional knowledge exchange. By bringing together energy professionals from diverse Arctic communities, the program fosters collaboration and the sharing of challenges, successes and lessons learned. This approach allows participants to adopt best practices, avoid common pitfalls and tailor solutions to their communities. By integrating Indigenous Knowledge and local knowledge into decision-making, ARENA ensures that energy systems are both effective and community-centered. As one participant noted, “Connecting with others across the North who share a passion for improving energy security and resiliency was inspiring.”

As ARENA’s network of energy champions grows, so does its impact on the future of the Arctic. By empowering communities with the tools to harness local renewable resources, ARENA is helping build a more sustainable and resilient Arctic.

ARENA III cohort in Iceland
© Jesse Delgrosse / The Capital Collective

“After our third iteration of ARENA, we’ll have approximately 50 alumni, which means 50 opportunities for new renewable energy installations across the Arctic, as well as folks who will pass on that knowledge to the younger generation and other community members. That’s a huge success for us.” – Sarah Cox, Canadian Head of Delegation SDWG.

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