Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, as we know, building infrastructure across the million square kilometres that make up our territory is a huge challenge. From an economic point of view and from an efficiency standpoint, we should be looking to expand our infrastructure corridors to benefit communities and encourage investment in the territory wherever we can.
As often mentioned in this House, the NWT is largely dependent on diesel and gasoline for heating, electricity, and transportation. Yet, Mr. Speaker, we sit stalled on a renewable energy project that could connect more communities to renewable energy while supporting much needed industry investment in our territory.
Mr. Speaker, the Taltson Hydro System encompasses a water basin that has the potential to generate significantly more electricity than is currently being harnessed by the dam. We have a solution to our energy dilemma in our own backyard, but it is not being captured. We know, Mr. Speaker, that Osisko Metals, with their Pine Point mine, is already on the Talston grid, just waiting to purchase additional power if it was made available. And Mr. Speaker, Osisko Metals would be happy to buy even more power if it was available too. We know that the Snare Hydro System that powers Yellowknife is old. It operates close to capacity and is sensitive to water flow rates which can lead to shortfalls in supply leading to the use of fossil fuel generators to make up the difference.
Mr. Speaker, there is a need to connect these two hydro transmission lines. The Talston Hydro Expansion Project must move forward, connecting the hydro grids in the NWT and all the communities along the way. This includes the line to Whati.
Mr. Speaker, as I said, it is challenging and expensive to build infrastructure across our territory therefore we must plan the most efficient linear systems that we can.
The expansion of hydro and fibre optic line should follow our highway system. Not only would it be easier to construct the systems themselves without disturbing new areas, it would allow for cheaper development along the roadway to serve the people and communities they connect. Connecting people, communities, and businesses to renewable energy is a winwin for our territory, Mr. Speaker, and I strongly support the expansion of the Talston Hydro System. Thank you.
Thank you, Member for Great Slave. Members' statements. Member for Kam Lake.
