Department of Transportation Energy Saving Initiatives The Department of Transportation and its contractors consume a significant amount of energy. A number of initiatives have been undertaken to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

• A pilot project was undertaken to demonstrate and assess the use of energy efficient vehicles. The Department acquired a hybrid pickup truck and a Smart car. After two years of use, the vehicles are consuming 25-30% less fuel compared to standard fuel vehicles.
• The Department purchased 20 auxiliary heaters to assess their use in maintaining temperature levels for the operation of maintenance equipment. Three different models of heaters have been installed.
• Replacement of the engines on the Louis Cardinal ferry in 2008 is expected to decrease the vessel's fuel consumption by 15-25%.
• In partnership with Arctic Energy Alliance and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department developed winter driving tips which help employees and residents reduce their fuel consumption.  
• The Department has commissioned energy audits on a number of its facilities to identify ways to reduce fuel consumption. 
• The Department has obtained an Asset Management System that will identify potential operational efficiencies and cost savings associated with asset maintenance and utilization, inventory management, and improved fuel consumption.
• The Department encourages staff to reduce, reuse, and recycle, and maintain recycling stations to reduce the amount of trash destined for the landfill.
• Together with Natural Resource Canada's (NRCan) Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation Program (CCIAP), DOT initiated a research project by Dillon Consulting on Climate Change and Transportation in the Northwest Territories.

The Department's Commitment to the Environment is outlined in detail in the publication Green Light.