Yukon Energy selects two sites for new power plants near Whitehorse

Yukon Energy has selected two sites for new thermal power plants near Whitehorse to address growing energy demands and prevent potential blackouts. The first site is located at Deep Creek, near Lake Laberge on Ta’an Kwäch’än Council traditional territory, and is expected to generate 90 megawatts of power. The second site is situated on Copper Haul Road within city limits, with a projected capacity of 60 megawatts.

The project, estimated to cost over $100 million, will utilize either diesel or liquefied natural gas, though the Copper Haul facility is expected to run on diesel initially. CEO Joe MacGillivray noted that the plants are necessary due to recent power supply deficits. The company plans to address resident concerns regarding noise by aiming to meet British Columbia’s noise regulations and utilizing newer, quieter technology. The proposal must still undergo an environmental assessment.