Strategic Metals proposes Yukon coal-fired power plant

Strategic Metals, a Vancouver-based mining company, is proposing the construction of a 100-megawatt coal-fired power plant in the Yukon to address the territory’s increasing electricity demand. The company argues that current energy options, including solar, wind, and large-scale hydro, may not be able to meet the region's needs in the near term, particularly regarding winter grid constraints.

The proposal suggests utilizing coal from the Division Mountain deposit near Braeburn, which contains an estimated 50 million tonnes of measured resources. CEO Douglas Eaton stated that this resource could potentially supply the facility for approximately a century, offering a local alternative to imported diesel and liquefied natural gas (LNG) to reduce costs and keep capital within the territory.

While coal-fired generation has been declining across Canada as provinces transition to lower-emission sources, Strategic Metals is presenting this project as a medium-term solution for the next few decades and a starting point for public discussion.