The territorial government has begun seeking members of the public to serve on a new version of the NWT Power Corporation’s board.
The power corporation had an independent board until 2016, when then-minister responsible Louis Sebert dissolved it and installed six GNWT deputy ministers as replacements.
At the time, Sebert said doing so would save up to $1 million a year and was in keeping with the “changing nature of the corporation … as it had become closer to government.”
Subsequent ministers have said the actual saving was more like $500,000 annually, while successive MLAs have said the power corporation needs to be returned to an independent board so it can operate at arm’s length from government.
Multiple MLAs who are now ministers have previously criticized the approach of having deputy ministers serve as NTPC’s board.
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On Tuesday evening, the GNWT said it was “moving forward with its commitment to transition to a hybrid public board of directors” for NTPC.
What it means by “hybrid public” is a board where four to eight members of the public are appointed alongside two GNWT representatives who “will remain to ensure alignment with government priorities as the sole shareholder.”
“The GNWT has engaged external experts to support the development of a structured appointment process, including a competency and skills matrix to assess candidates’ qualifications,” the territorial government stated in a news release.
“The goal is to build a diverse and experienced board that represents the people of the NWT, with an emphasis on Indigenous and regional representation.
“Avoiding conflicts of interest will also be a key consideration in the appointment process. The GNWT will prioritize candidates who can provide independent oversight without major conflicts related to government or special interest groups.”
To learn more about a board member’s responsibilities and apply, visit the GNWT’s website. The deadline to apply is May 15, 2025.
