Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to comment on the ATCO proposal regarding their participation as a power provider for the Northwest Territories.
I understand that the proposal is currently being reviewed and that we will eventually see the review and have our opportunity for input. My intent today is to offer some perspectives for consideration by Cabinet in both the review and the larger framework of energy planning for the NWT.
First, in recalling the theme day on the NWT Power Corporation, Members were expressing their dissatisfaction with the management and lack of innovation of that entity in effectively addressing the costs and methods of power production. Their call was for a review and tune-up of NWT Power Corporation rather than a transfer of this asset to private enterprise. Nevertheless, ATCO has responded with an unsolicited proposal. By agreeing to review the proposal the government has made a tacit and unvetted decision that we are open to privatizing our power provider; essentially a monopoly situation for the NWT. This decision deserves real debate and input from Members of this House.
Secondly, if we are open to privatizing, the government should actively make a call for proposals that is open and inclusive, not just mention it to a few select groups or corporations. As well, a call should include some guidelines, including indications of criteria for power development. That is, why are we doing this and what are we trying to achieve? What development do we wish? I will be very disappointed if we do not take this step before making any decision about moving in the direction of privatizing our power provider.
As the Premier mentioned in the press, ATCO’s proposal centres around the development of large hydro for export. We know 10,000 megawatts has been mentioned. This needs some context. Unlike Manitoba and Quebec, the NWT has relatively low precipitation and we have low relief. This means that to generate power on a similar scale we must construct large dams and flood huge areas in order to achieve the same large hydro goals. The costs and impacts are thus much greater. For example, the complete flooding of communities like Jean Marie River and the loss of large tracts of traditional lands along the Mackenzie River.
In contrast, a focus on supplying hydroelectric power to meet the needs of the NWT at lower cost can be achieved with a much more reasonable scale of development and lower impacts. The opportunity to greatly...
Mr. Bromley, your time for Member’s statement has expired.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement.
---Unanimous consent granted
In contrast, a focus on supplying hydroelectric power to meet the needs of the NWT at lower cost can be achieved with a much more reasonable scale of development and lower impacts. The opportunity to greatly increase output from the Taltson hydro development is one such development. Ultimately, truly sustainable development means each region producing its own power. Let’s get started.
Thank you, Mr. Bromley. The honourable Member for Great Slave, Mr. Abernethy.
