The Taltson Hydro Unit, managed by the Northwest Territories Power Corporation (NTPC), has resumed service after an extensive overhaul started in May 2023. The project included replacing key components such as the turbine and turbine shaft, rotor, and generator, and upgrading control panels and vibration monitoring equipment. Winter road construction transported large components to the remote site, usually accessible only by air.
During the overhaul, aimed for completion by November 2023, the South Slave hydro communities, including Fort Smith, Fort Resolution, Hay River, Enterprise, and K’atl’odeeche First Nation, relied on diesel generators. However, unforeseen challenges such as a seven-week wildfire evacuation in 2023 and additional commissioning issues in early 2024 caused delays.
An interim solution addressed technical problems, returning the hydro unit to commercial operation. A permanent solution will be installed later this summer, requiring a brief shutdown. The project received over $17.8 million from the Government of Canada through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP). Total overhaul costs are expected to be around $97.8 million, including $70 million in project costs and approximately $45 million for fuel and operations.
Built in 1965 to support the Pine Point Mine, the 22 MW Taltson Hydroelectric Facility has successfully returned to service. The project’s success underscores the importance of federal funding and the dedicated efforts of NTPC staff and contractors in completing large-scale infrastructure projects.
