Permits Issued; Groundwork Starts on Carmacks to Stewart Transmission Line

Yukon Energy has received all the permits and certificates needed to proceed with the surveying, clearing and construction of Phase 1 of the Carmacks to Stewart transmission line. The access and land use permits were issued by the Selkirk and Little Salmon Carmacks First Nation governments late last month, and the Yukon government’s certificates and permits came earlier this week.

“I am, of course, delighted that this project is finally coming to fruition,” Yukon Energy President David Morrison said. “It’s taken a lot of hard work and careful scrutiny to get to this point, but I believe it’s all worth it. This line will provide long-term benefits to all Yukon ratepayers. It gives us a customer for our surplus hydro, and it allows Pelly Crossing to switch to clean hydro for its electricity needs.”

Crews of Challenger Geomatics, Yukon Energy’s survey contractor, have begun their work. They will spend the next few weeks marking the line route between Carmacks and Pelly Crossing. Brush clearing will begin later this week and will continue until late February or early March. Line construction is expected to start in March, and substation construction is planned for later in the spring. The transmission line should be in operation by late 2008.

For safety reasons, Yukoners are asked to stay away from the area while the groundwork is taking place. If they absolutely must enter the work area, they are asked to wear safety clothing and to prearrange access with the on-site project manager. Contact information for the project manager will be posted at worksite access points along the Klondike Highway, or can be obtained by contacting Yukon Energy.

The Carmacks to Stewart Transmission Line Project has been through an extensive environmental screening by the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board and through three public hearings by the Yukon Utilities Board. Phase 1, from Carmacks to Pelly Crossing, is expected to cost about $27.8 million, with the Minto spur line costing approximately $8.8 million.

Contact:
Janet Patterson
Supervisor, Communications
Yukon Energy Corporation
(867) 393-5333
janet.patterson@yec.yk.ca