Yellowknife (May 26, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) supports the Northwest Territories Power Corporation’s (NTPC) decision to submit a proposal in the upcoming competitive process for the Hay River electrical utility franchise.

On May 25, 2015, Hay River Town Council approved a decision to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Hay River electrical franchise. The  NTPC Board of Directors had previously approached the GNWT for support to participate in this anticipated competitive process. The GNWT supports the Town of Hay River’s process and the participation of NTPC in that process. 

“It is important that every opportunity to reduce the cost of living and the costs to local businesses in Hay River is pursued,” said Premier Bob McLeod, Chair of the Ministerial Energy Coordinating and Climate-Change Committee. “The GNWT believes the RFP process initiated by the Town of Hay River could potentially lead to lower electricity rates, and therefore supports NTPC’s participation.”

“We believe that this competitive process has the potential for electricity rate reductions for the residents of Hay River” stated J. Michael. Miltenberger, Minister of Finance as well as Minister Responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation. “Should NTPC be successful in this process, there would be no material impacts with respect to the fiscal position of the Government of the Northwest Territories.”

Under the Cities, Towns and Villages Act, the Town of Hay River has exercised their right to seek proposals for the provision of electricity services in Hay River. NTPC intends to submit a proposal in response to the RFP. Expanding their sales base and improving upon their economies of scale is consistent with the strategic objectives of NTPC, as established by the NTPC Board of Directors.

Pursuing opportunities to reduce the cost of living is consistent with the priorities of the 17thLegislative Assembly, including a diversified economy that provides all communities and regions with opportunities and choices, and effective and efficient government.

Media inquiries:

Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the NWT
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca