ARENA Wraps Up 2017 Program
The Arctic Remote Energy Network Academy (ARENA) program concluded its 2017 program
with a closeout ceremony in Reykjavik, Iceland.
During their time in Iceland, the participants received in-depth lectures on a range
of topics related to the assessment, development and utilization of geothermal energy
resources from faculty at the United Nations University Geothermal Training Program.
The participants toured geothermal and hydroelectric power plants, commercial greenhouses
(vegetable and flowers) powered and heated by geothermal systems, a carbon dioxide
concentration plant, a fish drying facility, and a manufacturer that produces insulated
pipe for distribution of the geothermal water.
On the final day of the program, participants shared highlights from their 9-month
experience with ARENA and how the program benefitted their communities and their own
professional development.
Earlier this year, the 2017 participants traveled to Yellowknife, Canada in March
and Fairbanks, Alaska in June for two week-long onsite sessions.
The Iceland Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tómas Orri Ragnarsson, hosted the final closeout
event, presenting the program participants with certificates acknowledging their achievement.
The ARENA program has been endorsed by the Arctic Council's Sustainable Development
Working Group (SDWG), and is co-led by the United States, Canada, Finland, Iceland,
Aleut International Association and Gwich'in Council International.
ARENA co-leads from Alaska, Canada, and Iceland will use results from the 2017 program
to guide future ARENA engagement by the Arctic Council.
2017 ARENA participants in Iceland. Photo courtesy of UNU/GTP.