It’s undeniable: there’s a new spotlight on Canada’s North, and it’s long overdue.

As Ottawa earmarks record spending for national defence and Arctic infrastructure, Canadians are waking up to the realities of the North and the pressing need for sustained action. For many, these investments are welcome news, but they also highlight the urgent challenge presented by old and failing energy grids.

The North is facing a perfect storm: increasingly unpredictable weather due to climate change, deteriorating and inefficient infrastructure, and growing demand for electrical power due to rising populations, electrification, and industrial growth.

These challenges only compound the pressures on already stressed systems, as northern energy grids have for decades struggled to meet the needs of communities and industry. If Canada is to achieve its goals of becoming a secure and climate-competitive nation, then resilient, community-centered infrastructure must come first.

So, how did we get here?

In the 1950s, many northern and remote regions were electrified to support economic growth and regional expansion. Diesel and hydroelectric generators were built to supply heat and power to communities and evolving industries, mining operations and military sites. Although these systems were built decades ago, many homes and businesses still rely on them today.

Northern infrastructure needs northern talent When Whitehorse becomes the centre of the world Ottawa must heed........

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