The GNWT has made new directives on how it regulates and delivers electricity.
Its 11 new policies are designed to support a low-carbon electricity system in the territory, according to the territorial government. The changes are being submitted to the Public Utilities Board, an independent regulatory agency, to ensure the modifications are carried out safely and at reasonable rates.
Some new approaches include boosting renewable energy caps in diesel-powered communities to 30 per cent, up from 20 per cent.
The GNWT's Net Metering Program will also expand. Net metering lets customers install up to 15 kW of renewable power on their property to offset their electricity use. The territorial government says its program's expansion will include larger commercial projects, while retaining the 15kW cap for residential customers.
"All self-generators connected to the grid must now participate in a regulated program to ensure fair treatment for everyone," the GNWT stated.
The government added that there will be a new, standardized "Independent Power Producer Program" that will prioritize Indigenous and community ownership and ensure transparency in power purchase agreements.
Many of these issues are connected, the GNWT stated.
"As a package, these changes reflect years of the Government of the Northwest TerritoriesSA国际影视传媒� research and aim to balance system costs with the benefits of increased community participation and renewable energy adoption."
The territorial government says its changes address long-standing concerns and will give Northerners more room to generate renewable power and manage their energy costs.
"It will also better position Indigenous and community governments to advance renewable energy opportunities and support local economic development," it added.
