In March 2007 the 15th Legislative Assembly released the Northwest Territories Energy Plan and Greenhouse Gas Strategy, outlining a comprehensive approach to addressing the many and varying energy challenges that we face in our communities.
The Energy Plan introduced a wide range of tools and incentives to assist N.W.T. residents and communities in reducing their energy use. It specified investments to advance the use of alternative and renewable energy sources and to find ways to apply emerging technologies in our harsh environment. Members of the 16th Assembly have reiterated many of these goals and strategic priorities.
Mr. Speaker, in an effort to ensure that energy initiatives are coordinated and fully aligned with government priorities, cabinet has authorized the establishment of the Ministers’ energy coordinating committee.
This committee, which I chair, includes my colleagues Minister Miltenberger and Minister Yakeleya. It will provide an important forum for dialogue and an avenue through which we can be responsive and accountable to both the Members of the 16th Assembly and the people we represent.
One of the first priorities of this committee will be to consider the regulatory and administrative systems related to the provision of electricity in the Northwest Territories. The N.W.T. Energy Plan is built on the principle that reliable and affordable energy should be available in all N.W.T. communities.
In the coming months we will be engaging Members of this Assembly, N.W.T. residents and businesses in a review of electricity rates, regulations and subsidy programs in the Northwest Territories to ensure that our electricity system supports this principle.
Mr. Speaker, we have a tremendous supply of energy resources, yet the cost of energy in our communities remains expensive and a significant contributor to our high cost of living. We need to make long-term investments that will result in sustainable energy solutions. This includes a greater use of clean and renewable energy, focused efforts in energy conservation and efficiency, and an electricity system that supports our priorities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
