Geo-thermal Research Yields Promising Early Results

If you are a regular visitor to this blog you will know that Yukon Energy is exploring all possible options in our search for more clean, renewable energy. In 2008 we began looking for geo-thermal sources in the territory that could provide water hot enough for energy production (the water must be at a minimum in the 100 to 120 degree Celsius range). Because the Yukon is in what's referred to as the Pacific Ring of Fire, the geo-thermal potential in the territory is fairly high. We have hot springs and young volcanoes, both indicators of geo-thermal activity. The challenge is finding a good source that is relatively close to our existing transmission system. 

Over the last couple of years we have been using satellite-based technology, including infrared heat seeking equipment, to narrow our search. We have found encouraging results in several areas, including spots in the Central Yukon and around Whitehorse and Haines Junction. In particular, the Jarvis Creek area near Haines Junction appears to offer good geo-thermal potential. The water tested there was about 80 degrees Celsius. We believe if we drill down further we will find water even hotter; hopefully hot enough for energy production.

We carried out a small drilling program last year at Jarvis Creek and we plan to continue that work this fall.  We are working with the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations on this initiative and they seem interested in pursuing this as a potential project. We expect it will be another two years before we know for sure if electricity produced through geo-thermal means is a viable option for the Yukon. We will keep you informed as we move forward and gather more information.

How Does a Geo-thermal Plant Work?
A geo-thermal plant operates the same way a steam plant does. The water is brought to the surface, the water's steam is used to operate a generator, and then the water is returned deep underground from where it came. Geo-thermal operations have small footprints, they are very efficient, and they are a clean and renewable source of electricity.