Canada Invests in Renewable Energy in the Yukon, Support Indigenous-Led Clean Energy Initiatives
Canada's quest for cleaner energy has reached a new milestone in the Yukon, where the government is investing in renewable energy initiatives that support energy independence and economic development. The Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, announced an investment of nearly $15.5 million for the Copper Niis Limited Partnership, the development corporation of White River First Nation, to deploy the Beaver Creek Solar Project. This project will not only reduce the community's reliance on diesel for electricity but also create training and skills opportunities for its residents.
Key Takeaways:
- The federal government invested nearly $15.5 million in the Copper Niis Limited Partnership for the development of the Beaver Creek Solar Project.
- The project includes over $13.4 million from Natural Resources Canada's Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities program and $2 million from the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency's Inclusive Diversification and Economic Advancement in the North (IDEANorth) program.
- The Beaver Creek Solar Project will displace approximately 55 percent of diesel consumption for electricity generation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- The project will create sustainable jobs and skills training opportunities for residents of White River First Nation.
- The Government of Canada is committed to supporting local solutions and community-driven projects that will build a clean energy future for all.
Statistics:
- The Beaver Creek Solar Project will generate an average of 1,100 MWh per year.
- The project will reduce on average 1,100 tonnes of CO2 annually.
- The project will have 1.9 megawatts (MW) of solar panels and 3.5 MWh of battery energy storage.
- The investment in the project includes over $13.4 million from Natural Resources Canada's Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities program.
Sources:
- The Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs
- The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources
- Chief Bessie Chasse, White River First Nation
- Dr. Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for Yukon
- Canada's 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy
- Natural Resources Canada's Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities program
- Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency's Inclusive Diversification and Economic Advancement in the North (IDEANorth) program.