Naka Power Utilities (NWT) is advancing the modernization of electricity service across the Northwest Territories with support from the Government of Canada through the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways (SREPs) Program.

This federal investment of up to $4.4 million will help fund the rollout of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), supporting a more modern, reliable and efficient electricity system, while helping keep costs manageable for customers. 

As an Indigenous-owned utility serving communities across the North, Naka is focused on delivering practical improvements that reflect the unique needs of the territory from remote communities to its largest customer base in Yellowknife.

A Smarter System for Northern Communities

AMI, or smart meter technology, automatically records electricity use and securely transmits that data to Naka’s systems. Unlike traditional meters that require manual readings, AMI provides consistent, up-to-date information so bills are based on actual energy use.

This is especially important in the Northwest Territories, where extreme weather and remote locations can make accessing meters challenging. AMI enables reliable, consistent readings—no matter the conditions—supporting better service for communities both large and small.

Real Benefits for Customers Across the NWT

With the support of federal funding, AMI will deliver meaningful improvements for customers, including:

• More accurate bills with fewer estimated readings
• Better visibility into energy use to support informed decisions
• Faster identification and resolution of outages and service issues
• Improved reliability through enhanced system monitoring

From larger centres like Yellowknife to smaller, remote communities, these upgrades will help ensure a more consistent and responsive customer experience.

Supporting Affordability and System Improvements

This investment will support critical modernization and help reduce the impact of these upgrades on customers. By offsetting project costs, the funding helps limit pressure on future electricity rates and supports long-term affordability. 

AMI is a key part of building a stronger, more resilient system; one that can better support electrification, integrate renewable energy, and meet the evolving needs of northern communities.

Work Underway Across the Territory

Planning and design for AMI deployment are already underway, with installation rolling out in phases across the Northwest Territories over the next several years. Work will begin in Yellowknife, home to Naka’s largest customer base, before expanding to communities across the territory, including:

• Fort Providence
• Wekweèti
• Sambaa K’e
• Kakisa / Dory Point
• Enterprise
• K’atl’odeeche
• Riverwoods Subdivision

This phased approach ensures communities are supported with both smart meters and the communications infrastructure needed to enable reliable service.

Building a Stronger, More Resilient North

This federal investment is helping Naka Power Utilities deliver a more modern, efficient and resilient electricity system, one that reflects the realities of the North and supports the people and communities it serves.

As an Indigenous-owned utility, Naka remains committed to delivering reliable, affordable electricity while investing in solutions that strengthen communities today and into the future.

Photos from the announcement and press conference held by the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Government of Canada.

Group Photo: Jay Massie, Vice President, Northern Development & Indigenous Relations, ATCO; Cathy MacDonald, CEO, Naka Power Utilities (NWT); The Honourable Ted Laking, Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources, Government of Yukon; The Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Government of Canada; The Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Government of Canada; Darrell Beaulieu, President and CEO of Denendeh Investments Inc.