Yellowknife — September 2, 2025
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is pleased to announce the appointment of a new public Board of Directors for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation (NTPC) and NT Hydro. As a Crown corporation, NTPC operates at arm’s length from the GNWT and will be guided by a ministerial letter outlining expectations and responsibilities. This transition marks an important step in strengthening governance and ensuring that oversight of the territory’s electricity system reflects the public interest.
The Minister Responsible for NTPC and NT Hydro has appointed seven new public board members, and two members representing the GNWT. These appointments will take effect in two phases to support a smooth transition.
Existing members term expiring December 31, 2025
- William MacKay - GNWT (former Chair)
- Robert Jenkins - GNWT (former Vice Chair)
New members effective September 1, 2025:
- Judith Goucher – Chair
- Leigh-Anne Palter – Vice Chair
- Gaeleen MacPherson – Director (GNWT)
- Terrence Courtoreille – Director (GNWT)
New members effective January 1, 2026:
- Danny Bayha – Director
- Troy Bradbury – Director
- Grace Nakimayak – Director
- Russell Noksana – Director
- Kevin Hodgins – Director
The GNWT initiated this governance reform to align NTPC’s practices with national standards for Crown corporations and to build a Board that reflects the diversity and expertise of the Northwest Territories. The new Board will oversee NTPC’s business and strategic direction, ensuring alignment with the public interest. The Board’s role is governance, not rate-setting. Any changes to power rates must be reviewed and approved by the NWT Public Utilities Board (PUB).
Board members were selected through a formal and inclusive appointment process. The Expression of Interest (EOI) process emphasized communication and teamwork skills, business competence, demonstrated leadership, and integrity. While expertise in governance, finance, utilities, or lived experience in NWT communities was considered, the primary qualification was the ability to provide effective strategic oversight. The process also prioritized Indigenous, regional, and gender-diverse representation to ensure the Board reflects the communities it serves.
Current Chair and Vice Chair appointments concluded on August 30, 2025. However, both individuals will continue to serve as Directors until December 31, 2025, to support continuity and assist with the transition of outgoing members whose terms end on September 30, 2025.
Quote
“Energy governance in the NWT must reflect and elevate the people it serves. The GNWT’s Direction Letter lays the foundation for accountability, strategic alignment, and effective governance, establishing a modern, inclusive model grounded in public-interest leadership and fiscal responsibility. Prioritizing Indigenous inclusion and diversity ensures that northern voices, knowledge, and lived experience underpin a well-balanced energy future. Through this restructured approach, our energy initiatives will not only stabilize and bolster the economy, but also pave the way for new opportunities for northerners.”
- Caroline Wawzonek, Minister responsible for Strategic Infrastructure, Energy, and Supply Chains
Quick facts
- The new Board includes seven public members and two GNWT representatives (non-compensated).
- Appointments were made through a transparent, merit-based Expression of Interest process.
- The Board will provide strategic oversight of NTPC and NT Hydro, not set power rates.
- The Board will be guided by a Ministerial Direction Letter outlining strategic goals and governance expectations.
Related links
For media requests, please contact:
Department of Infrastructure
Government of the Northwest Territories
INF_Communications@gov.nt.ca