2030 Energy Strategy
2
MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER
In 2016-17, the
Government of the
Northwest Territories
engaged with the public in
six regional centres across
the Northwest Territories to
discuss energy and climate
change issues. We met to
gather opinions and ideas
that would contribute to
the development of a new
Energy Strategy, and the development of a Climate
Change Strategic Framework for the Northwest
Territories.
We heard that the people of the Northwest
Territories support the transition to a lower carbon
economy. To achieve a lower carbon economy, we
must use less fossil fuel. People understood that
our dependence on imported fossil fuels contributes
to climate change, causes pollution, and leaves us at
the mercy of fluctuating world market prices.
People also understood-only too well-the
challenges of life in the North, especially the
challenge of our high cost of living. And while
most people want to see more renewables and
alternatives they also associate these choices with
an increased cost.
We heard-loud and clear-that we must set
realistic and achievable emissions targets. We
heard that future carbon tax revenues should be
redistributed to those impacted. We heard that
energy efficiency programs and financial incentives
should be expanded and be more flexible.
This 2030 Energy Strategy reflects the Priorities of
the 18th Legislative Assembly. The Government
of the Northwest Territories supports the use
of energy-efficient technologies, increasing
the production and transmission of renewable
and alternative energy, and implementing a
strategy to mitigate and adapt to climate change
in collaboration with other governments and
organizations. To do this we are building stronger
relationships with community governments and
other stakeholders.
While we strengthen our relationships within the
Northwest Territories, we fulfill our commitments
to Canada and to the world. We work with our
federal and Aboriginal partners within the Pan-
Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate
Change to find alternatives to diesel use in remote
communities, improve energy efficiency, promote
biomass, and to develop and export our hydropower
resources. These initiatives contribute to Canada's
commitments as signatory to the Paris Agreement
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
"We heard that the people of the
Northwest Territories support
the transition to a lower carbon
economy. To achieve a lower
carbon economy, we must use
less fossil fuel."
These actions align with the goals set out in
the Canadian Energy Strategy, including energy
sustainability and conservation, technology and
innovation and energy delivery.
We are challenged to change. Change can be
unfamiliar and difficult. But well-managed change
is the pathway to opportunity and growth. By
following a strategic path and joining together to
address our energy challenges, we can transition
to a lower carbon economy, and build a secure,
affordable and sustainable energy system to serve
the people of the Northwest Territories now and
for generations to come.
The Honourable Bob McLeod
Premier of the Northwest Territories
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