Check against delivery

Mr. Speaker, the government of the Northwest Territories is making practical investments to strengthen our energy systems and make energy more reliable, affordable, and sustainable for communities across the territory.

The Energy Initiatives Report released on February 3rd shows how we are building a strong foundation for long-term change. We are improving how energy systems are planned, regulated, and delivered, while moving forward with projects that meet local needs and reflect northern realities.

Mr. Speaker, a key part of this work is supporting the Public Utilities Board and advancing Integrated Power System Planning. This approach looks at the territory’s power systems across regions, technologies, and timelines so we can better coordinate investments, lower long-term costs, and support the transition to cleaner energy. Engagement with communities, Indigenous governments, utilities, and partners is central to this work, and those conversations are already underway. We are not just planning on paper. People across the territory are helping shape how power is delivered for years to come.

We are also proud to support projects that bring widespread attention to the North. Last month, Yellowknife hosted the Arctic Bioenergy Summit. People across the NWT, Canada, and from around the world came together to share ideas on sustainable bioenergy solutions for northern and remote communities. The return for our support of events like this gives us modern, practical and northern-led solutions that make a real difference in Northerners’ energy options. These events also demonstrate that the Northwest Territories is leading in cold-climate energy innovation, firmly placing us on the national and international stage and shows other jurisdictions what is possible in the North.

Mr. Speaker, I am also pleased to share that the Government of the Northwest Territories, in conjunction with the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, Indigenous governments and communities, and project partners, are working on energy related pilot projects in the Territory. The aim of these pilot projects is to test new technologies and equipment for suitability in our communities and for our conditions, with a goal of identifying new long- term energy options that optimize generation, reduce reliance on diesel fuel, increase efficiency of local power plants, and improve community wellbeing. The first of these projects will occur in Fort Simpson this spring, and we look forward to sharing details of this project as it progresses.

Looking ahead, together with the Department of Environment and Climate Change, we will be releasing a whole-of-government climate change and energy strategy. This strategy will set a clear and coordinated path for how we manage energy, reduce emissions, and support more resilient communities grounded in practical northern solutions. These energy initiatives we are advancing are intentional steppingstones toward our long-term climate objectives. They support the transition to cleaner energy, help control costs, and strengthen community resilience, while recognizing the unique realities of the North.

Mr. Speaker, these investments are not one-off announcements. They are part of a deliberate, step-by-step approach to how energy decisions are made and how projects are delivered.

By strengthening long-term planning, supporting innovation, and working closely with our partners, we are building an energy system that is reliable, affordable, and resilient. One that meets the needs of Northerners today, while positioning our territory for a stronger, more sustainable future.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.