The Treasurer, Delia Lawrie, today announced Dr Patrick Walsh as the Northern Territory's new Utilities Commissioner.

"The Henderson Government is committed to a reliable and affordable power supply for Territorians, which is why in 2009 we restructured the Utilities Commission to strengthen and expanded the role of the industry's independent regulator." Ms Lawrie said.

"Today I can announce that Dr Patrick (Pat) Walsh will take the reins as the new Commissioner, replacing Andrew Reeves who has who has been appointed as the chair of the national energy regulator.

"A Doctor of mathematics with a strong science and business background, Dr Walsh brings a wealth of experience to the role of Commissioner, being Chairperson of the Essential Services Commission of South Australia since 2005.

"Dr Walsh's role will be to independently oversee the Territory's electricity industry, ensuring the appropriate conduct of electricity suppliers and customer service standards.

"As part of a three man commission with Mr Mike Robson and Mr Peter Caldwell, Dr Walsh will continue to put in place a priority works program which the Government has developed to improve the industry's efficiency as well as standards and reliability of supply for customers."

The priority works program includes:

• Review of market structures and roles and responsibilities;
• Review of adequacy of existing reliability, quality and customer service standards for electricity;
• Review of options for monitoring and oversight of retail electricity prices; and,
• Review of the NT's electricity system planning and performance monitoring framework.

"The Henderson Government is investing in the Territory's power and water services to improve reliability and to help meet future demand with a $1.8 billion five year repair and maintenance program," Ms Lawrie said.

"This infrastructure overhaul is leading the country, with other States following our lead as they attempt to modernise their ageing energy assets.

"The Territory is a young jurisdiction; with good planning and strong independent regulation we can ensure affordable and reliable energy as we continue to grow and develop."