Colleagues, today, my Member's statement brings great news. Sometimes in life, you find yourself in the right place at the right time.
Last summer in Yellowknife, I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Kenneth Peter Judge, visiting from Monaco. As we discussed his work, businesses, and personal life, I learned he was part of the legendary Australia II crew that ended America's 132-year winning streak in the 1983 America's Cup, a historic sailing triumph. Despite his achievements and honours like the Order of Australia, Ken came across as refreshingly down-to-earth. Our conversation turned to Clean Design, a Canadian company specializing in AI-driven hybrid energy solutions. With over 15 years of proven success and 25 plus systems operational, including the B@ Gold's Goose Mine in Nunavut, this technology is transforming remote energy challenges. We explored bringing it to the Northwest Territories, zeroing in on Fort Simpson as a prime opportunity.
Clean Design focuses on reducing diesel consumption, cutting emissions, minimizing blackouts, and enabling silent running at night via advanced hybrid and battery integration. For diesel-reliant communities like Fort Simpson, these innovations deliver reliability, affordability, and environmental gains essential for our North.
It is my understanding that Ken and Clean Design have collaborated with the Minister responsible for strategic energy and staff, including NTPC, on a pilot project being launched in Fort Simpson, tentatively scheduled for April 1st, 2026. While the terms of the pilot project are still being finalized, I am confident it will make a real difference. In conversations with the Liidlii Ku First Nation and Fort Simpson Metis Nation 52, they expressed excitement about this pilot and its potential future impacts on the community and their local governments.
I extend my thanks to the Minister, her staff, and Peter Judge and the Johnston family for prioritizing our community and partnering across the aisle. I also thank Minister Wawzonek and her team for their urgency in advancing this. My hope is this pilot succeeds in Fort Simpson and scales as a permanent solution for NWT communities reducing diesel dependency for generations.
Members' statements. Member from Yellowknife Centre.
