Electricity Review Team Completes Public Discussion Phase
R(16)247 - Monday, July 20, 2009
Their findings are included in a report entitled “A Discussion with Northerners about Electricity” It can be viewed online at: http://www.iti.gov.nt.ca/energy/ElectricityReview.shtml.
Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Bob McLeod is the chairperson of the MECC. He says he’s pleased with the results of the first stage of the review process.
“We are pleased with the participation and ideas expressed by people across the NWT,” Mr. McLeod said. “Understanding the opinions of the people is the first step in developing a vision that can guide the Territorial electrical system over the next twenty years”.
The NWT Electricity Review was initiated in December of 2008. A Review Team composed of Mark Cleveland, Gerry Forrest, and Doug Matthews was appointed and began its work in February of 2009. The Team conducted eight public forums, held in Inuvik, Norman Wells, Fort Simpson, Hay River, Fort Smith, Yellowknife, Fort Resolution and Behchoko. In addition, Team members met with nearly 50 other organizations and individuals and received approximately 25 written submissions. During the course of their work, the Review Team heard opinions from over 300 people.
“There were areas of consensus, in the views expressed,” indicated Mark Cleveland, speaking on behalf of the Review Team. “However, there are also strongly held, differing views on a number of aspects of the electricity system. The views that have been expressed over the past few months will require further discussion, analysis and, where necessary, leadership to resolve.”
The final report of the Review will be completed this summer. It will analyze information and data that was collected during the first phase of the review, summarize research, experiences and strategies that could be useful to the Northwest Territories, and then make recommendations to the MECC on the actions that need to be taken to achieve the Review Team’s proposed vision for the NWT electrical sector.
For more information contact:
Drew Williams
Press Secretary for Premier/Cabinet
Government of the Northwest Territories
Phone: (867) 669-2304
