Variable Speed Generator in Aklavik Successfully Commissioned

NWT

February 22, 2018

NTPC is pleased to report that the Variable Speed Generator (VSG) Project in Aklavik has reached a major milestone with successful commissioning of the test unit. Electricity is now being provided to the more than 300 NTPC customers in Aklavik using a converter-based VSG platform. The VSG will also integrate solar power from a new 55 kilowatt solar array, installed by the GNWT earlier this year.

This innovative new technology is projected to reduce diesel consumption by approximately 80,000 litres per year which would result in a greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction of 210 tonnes. This is achieved through improved efficiency of diesel generation.

This pilot project supports NTPC’s efforts to stabilize electricity rates in remote Northern communities and better manage the effect on cost of living,” said Jay Grewal, President and CEO of NTPC.  “The projected reduction in fuel consumption and associated GHG emissions reduction will also support the 2030 Energy Strategy and the Climate Change Strategic Framework.”

With the VSG platform now live, a one year trial period will commence to assess performance against expectations. At the end of the trial, NTPC will determine whether to broaden use of variable speed generators to other locations.

The Government of the Northwest Territories provided funding support for the project. This is reflective of its commitment to minimize the impact on electricity rates by covering incremental costs associated with the addition of renewable and emerging technologies to electricity systems.  

NTPC is a wholly owned subsidiary of NT Hydro, which in turn is 100 percent owned by the Government of the Northwest Territories. 

https://www.ntpc.com/about-ntpc/news-releases/2018/02/16/variable-speed-generator-in-aklavik-successfully-commissioned

Related Articles


Latest Articles


Changing Scene

  • IDEAL Electrical Partners with Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area to Support Affordable Housing Initiatives

    IDEAL Electrical Partners with Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area to Support Affordable Housing Initiatives

    August 17, 2026 Earlier this month, approximately 30 IDEAL Electrical employees and skilled electricians volunteered alongside Habitat for Humanity Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to help construct Countryside, an affordable 15-unit townhome development in Brampton that will welcome families later this year. Volunteers assisted with electrical wiring and rough-in installation and provide general construction support, helping… Read More…

  • Hubbell Canada Forms Strategic Alliance with Mac’s II Agencies to Strengthen Harsh & Hazardous Market Presence in British Columbia

    Hubbell Canada Forms Strategic Alliance with Mac’s II Agencies to Strengthen Harsh & Hazardous Market Presence in British Columbia

    August 17, 2026 Hubbell Canada is pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with Mac’s II Agencies, effective August 1, 2026, to represent Hubbell Canada’s Harsh & Hazardous portfolio throughout British Columbia. This newly formed alliance further strengthens Hubbell Canada’s commitment to serving customers operating in some of the most demanding industrial environments, while supporting… Read More…

  • AEA Scholarships and Bursaries Apply by August 31st

    AEA Scholarships and Bursaries Apply by August 31st

    August 17, 2026 The Alberta Electrical Alliance is proud to support our industry with over $320,500 of postsecondary scholarships for current members and their children. Your participation in AEA events helps fund AEA scholarships and build our industry’s future. AEA Sponsored Scholarships Open to employees, dependents, and children of parents who are members of the… Read More…

  • Contractors’ Corner at the 2026 NETCO Conference

    Contractors’ Corner at the 2026 NETCO Conference

    August 17, 2026 ECAO and CECA look forward to joining industry leaders at the NETCO – National Electrical Trade Council 2026 Conference for an important conversation on AI and its growing role in electrical contracting. R. Graeme Aitken, Executive Director of ECAO, Terry Milot, President of the Canadian Electrical Contractors Association, and Témoc Vega, PhD,… Read More…