Going Solar in Northwest Territories in 2026
The Northwest Territories faces some of Canada's highest energy costs due to its remote location and reliance on diesel generation. Solar power offers a meaningful solution for NWT communities and homeowners looking to reduce their reliance on expensive fossil fuels.
Note: The federal Canada Greener Homes Grant (closed February 2024) and Canada Greener Homes Loan (closed October 2025) are no longer accepting new applications. NWT residents can still benefit from territory-specific programs through the Arctic Energy Alliance and the NWT government's Energy Priorities Framework.
Below are the Northwest Territories solar incentives and rebates that may benefit you.
Northwest Territories Electricity Market
Primary utilities: Northwest Territories Power Corporation (NTPC)
NTPC serves most NWT communities with some of Canada's highest electricity rates — often $0.30–$0.45/kWh in diesel-dependent communities and lower but still elevated rates on the Yellowknife grid.
The Arctic Energy Alliance (AEA) provides rebates and technical support for renewable installations. A 4–6 kW system in Yellowknife ($20,000–$30,000) can save $1,500–$3,000+ annually given local rates, with faster payback than southern provinces.
Northwest Territories Solar Incentives, Rebates, And Benefits
Canada Greener Homes Grant (Closed Feb 2024)
The Canada Greener Homes Grant closed to new applications in February 2024 (program ran May 2021–February 2024). No new applications are being accepted. Existing approved applicants may still complete their claims. Visit NRCan.gc.ca for information on any successor federal programs.
Canada Greener Homes Loan (Closed Oct 2025)
The Canada Greener Homes Loan closed in October 2025 (final application deadline was January 20, 2026). No new applications are being accepted. Visit NRCan.gc.ca for information on any successor federal financing programs.
NWT Arctic Energy Alliance Programs
The Arctic Energy Alliance (AEA) in the NWT provides energy audits, technical support, and rebate programs for residents installing renewable energy systems including solar. The AEA is the territory's primary resource for renewable energy adoption.
NWT Electricity Rate Relief Program
The territorial government's Electricity Rate Relief and subsidy programs can be combined with solar installations to dramatically reduce energy costs for NWT homeowners, particularly those in communities with high diesel-based electricity rates.
Northwest Territories Net Metering
The NWT Power Corporation offers net metering for customers in communities on the NWT grid. Given the territory's high electricity rates, net metering credits are particularly valuable in the NWT. Off-grid homeowners with solar and battery storage can eliminate diesel generator costs entirely.
Additional Northwest Territories Solar Programs
Arctic Energy Alliance Renewable Energy Rebate
The AEA's renewable energy programs provide technical assessments and financial support for NWT homeowners installing solar systems. The organization helps residents navigate available incentives and connect with qualified installers operating in the territory.
Northwest Territories Solar Incentives — At A Glance
The Northwest Territories offers some of the most compelling economics for solar in Canada due to very high electricity costs. Territorial programs and net metering combined with dramatic fuel savings make solar an excellent investment, particularly for homeowners and communities currently relying on diesel generation.
Northwest Territories Solar FAQ
Does the Arctic Energy Alliance still offer solar rebates?
AEA periodically offers rebates for residential renewable systems in the NWT. Contact aea.nt.ca for current funding — amounts and eligibility change with territorial budgets.
Is net metering available in Yellowknife?
NTPC offers net metering on the Snare Grid serving Yellowknife and surrounding areas. Remote diesel communities may require off-grid solar-battery systems instead of grid-tied net metering.
Why is payback faster in the NWT despite less sun?
Extremely high electricity costs mean each kWh of solar offsets expensive grid or diesel power. Savings per kWh dwarf southern provinces even with moderate annual production.