News & Events

Check this section for Yukon Energy's latest news and coming events.

If you have questions about any of the information posted here, please contact:


Communications and Community Relations
Phone: (867) 393-5398
Email: communications@yec.yk.ca

Sep 03, 2025  Comment

Yukon Energy Budget Payment Plan Customer Update

Recommendation to Increase Your Payment Amount   As we head into the colder months, Yukon Energy is reviewing Budget Payment Plans to help ensure your account stays on track through to April — so you can avoid surprises and better manage your electricity bills.   We recommend increasing your plan by 10% to account for rate changes. This will help reflect expected electricity costs more accurately over the winter season.  How Does the Budget Payment Plan Work?  The Budget Payment Plan is designed to offer predictability by averaging your annual electricity consumption into a fixed monthly payment. This amount stays consistent throughout the year, regardless of seasonal fluctuations or estimated meter readings. At the end of each term in April, we reconcile the amount you've paid with your actual electricity use. If you have paid for more electricity than you have used, you will see a credit on your bill. Conversely, if you have used more electricity than you have been paid for, you will be asked to make an additional payment.  Please remember:  The exact agreed-upon amount must be paid each month — not more, not less.  Missed or altered payments will result in automatic removal from the plan.  It is your responsibility to monitor your account and request changes if needed.  If you have any questions or would like to review or adjust your Budget Payment Plan, please contact us at (867) 993-5565 or billing@yec.yk.ca before October 1, 2025.   Sincerely,    The Yukon Energy Team 
Sep 02, 2025  Comment

Noise Concerns at the Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station - September 2025 Update

Yukon Energy has a mix of owned diesel generators, liquefied natural gas (LNG) generators and rental diesel generators at the Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station (WRGS). Diesel and LNG play an important role in the Yukon, providing electricity when there is not enough hydro power available, during emergencies, and when other renewable sources of power are not available. Yukon Energy operates the thermal generators at the WRGS under an air emissions permit that was renewed in January 2025. It allows us to operate a maximum of 42 megawatts at the facility. A copy of the permit is available here. We recognize that Riverdale residents have concerns about the noise from the generators as well as their impact on air quality. Noise In compliance with our permit, Yukon Energy submitted to the Government of Yukon an environmental monitoring plan and a plan for noise mitigation at the facility. A recent noise assessment found that our owned diesel generators housed in the blue building (WD4 to 7) are the loudest. The plan states that in 2025, we are investigating noise mitigation options for these units and will rely on engineers and noise mitigation experts to recommend solutions and conduct any engineering design. Mitigation measures will be installed and operating before December 31, 2026.  What has YEC been working on this summer? This summer, we hired a consultant to review our sound monitoring results and take additional measurements from the units. This will then help us to determine which mitigation measure will be the most effective.   Air When Yukon Energy renewed its air emissions permit for the WRGS, we hired WSP Canada Inc. to conduct an air quality assessment. The assessment looked at two scenarios, both based on the plant running at full capacity during unlikely, worst-case weather conditions. It found the following: Levels of sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide are well below standard levels. Fine, coarse and suspended particulates are higher in the immediate area of the power plant but nowhere else. The baseline concentrations of nitrogen dioxide without the facility are already elevated, with the 1-hour baseline at 65% of the current Yukon Ambient Air Quality Standards and 93% of the 2025 Yukon Ambient Air Quality Standards. A Human Health Risk Assessment found no significant health risks. More details are available in Yukon Energy’s proposal on the YESAB online registry for Project Assessment Number 2024-0103. As part of the same environmental monitoring plan that has information about noise mitigation, we will move forward with an air quality monitoring program that will focus on NOx emissions. We plan to install and commission the station before the end of this year, subject to the availability of the proposed equipment/materials and a qualified contractor(s).
Safety
Aug 21, 2025  Comment

LNG Practice Drill

Yukon Energy staff, along with first responders, will be testing our emergency plan for our LNG site on Thursday, August 21. You may see firetrucks on-site and staff evacuating, but please note that this is just a drill, public safety is not at risk. The drill will allow us to practice our emergency plan and identify any areas for improvement.
Safety
Aug 13, 2025  Comment

Have the Best Dam Summer Ever – Stay Safe Around Hydro Facilities

Summers in the Yukon are all about the outdoors and adventure. Whether you're paddling, fishing, or boating, we know many of you love spending time on the water. But if you’re heading out near one of our hydro dams or control structures, there’s something we want you to keep in mind: hydro facilities are powerful—and they can be dangerous. Here’s how to stay safe and make the most of your time on the water: Why You Should Take Dam Safety Seriously Even when things look calm, the water near dams and control structures can change fast. Think: Strong, unpredictable currents Sudden changes in water levels Hidden hazards beneath the surface It only takes a few seconds for a fun afternoon to turn risky. That’s why we’ve put warning systems, signage, and barriers in place—and why we need you to follow them. Be smart and safe: Stay behind the yellow boat booms Obey all signs and safety barriers Never climb on structures or fish from them We’re not trying to ruin the fun—we just want everyone to get home safe. So before you head out for a paddle, a fishing trip, or a scenic float—take a moment to know the risks and stay alert around hydro facilities. Respect the signs, stay outside the booms, and use good judgment.  Planning a trip near one of our hydro dams? Click here to learn more about dam and facility safety.
News, Media Releases
Aug 07, 2025  Comment

Yukon Energy CEO Announces Retirement

Whitehorse, Yukon — Chris Milner, is retiring from his position as Yukon Energy’s President and CEO toward the end of 2025. Chris joined Yukon Energy in 2021 as the Vice President of Government Relations before moving to the role of CEO and President in early 2023. Throughout his time at Yukon Energy, Chris has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to improving the Yukon’s electricity system. Chris has also had a celebrated career as the former CEO of a successful First Nation-owned development corporation, a seasoned corporate director, and a key leader for major international sports events. A comprehensive CEO succession plan is already underway, developed in close collaboration with the Chair of the Yukon Energy Board of Directors to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition. Quotes “Chris has led Yukon Energy with integrity, vision, and a deep sense of responsibility to Yukon communities. His commitment to excellence and innovation has positioned us for long-term success. On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Chris for his leadership and for working closely with us on a transition plan that reflects his dedication to Yukon Energy’s future.” - Rod Savoie, Chair of Yukon Energy Board of Directors “Under Chris’s leadership, Yukon Energy launched a bold strategic plan and road map to 2050 focused on reliability, modernization and a transition toward a more renewable energy future. I applaud Chris for his role in fostering a strong organizational culture at Yukon Energy and building a clear vision for the future.” - Doug Janzen, Chair of Yukon Development Corporation Board of Directors “I joined Yukon Energy with the purpose of serving Yukoners — in a place that my family and I have called home for nearly 40 years. Being President and CEO has been an extraordinary journey, offering both personal growth and the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way.” - Chris Milner, Yukon Energy CEO and President About Yukon Energy: Founded in 1987, Yukon Energy is a publicly owned utility and the primary generator and transmitter of electricity across Yukon communities. For media inquiries, please contact: communications@yec.yk.ca 
News
Jul 30, 2025  Comment

Yukon Energy Receives 20-Year Water Use Licence for Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station

Whitehorse, Yukon – Yukon Energy has received a new 20-year water use licence, authorizing continued operation and generation of hydroelectricity at the Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station (WRGS) through to 2045.   The WRGS, more commonly known as the Whitehorse dam, is the Yukon’s main source of summer electricity and a significant source of winter electricity. Power generated at Yukon Energy’s hydro facilities in Whitehorse, Aishihik, and Mayo is the primary supply of renewable electricity in the Yukon, allowing more than 90% of Yukon Energy’s electricity generation to be renewable on average over the past 25 years.  New licence terms for the Whitehorse dam focus on:   Monitoring and mitigating effects of the facility on salmon and fish, wildlife and wetlands, erosion and sedimentation, and culture and heritage;  Maintaining ongoing structural integrity and safety of the WRGS and Lewes Control Structure;  Working closely with First Nation governments and community groups in the project area; and  Accountability through regulatory check-ins with the Yukon Water Board every five years.  These changes reflect years of meaningful dialogue with Carcross/Tagish First Nation, Kwanlin Dün First Nation, and Ta’an Kwäch’än Council throughout the assessment and relicensing processes.  “This new 20‑year licence provides certainty that Yukoners will continue to benefit from renewable energy in the decades ahead, while we continue to work with First Nation governments and local communities to advance solutions to reduce effects of the facility and improve operations year-over-year."    - Chris Milner, CEO and President of Yukon Energy 

Jul 17, 2025  Comment

Electric Home Heating and EV Demand

In our five-year strategic plan, we shared that a single-dwelling home requires three times more electricity when it switches from propane or diesel to electric heat. And when you add an electric vehicle (EV) to the mix, that same home could use five to six times more electricity.  That raised some good questions from the community, so we want to clear things up.  These numbers are based on demand, not energy consumption. That means it’s not about how much electricity a home uses over time, but how much it might need at a single point in time, like during a cold winter evening when the heat is on and the EV is charging in the driveway. In those moments, the demand for power can spike to several times higher than a home with oil or propane heat and a gas-powered vehicle.  This is an important difference. And it actually underlines why thermal resources like LNG and diesel (that can be turned on quickly) are so critical for meeting those peak times when everyone needs electricity at once.   We're laser-focused on building dependable sources of electricity that can deliver when we need them most, especially during the winter. That’s why we're moving forward with our Whitehorse Power Centres project as a key priority.  Our road map to 2050 outlines our vision for an even more renewable future; however, it's important to understand the unique challenges we face today with growing electricity demand and an isolated system.   We appreciate that Yukoners are curious and engaged as we work to build a more robust and reliable grid in the years ahead.  Learn more about our plans here. 
Jul 04, 2025  Comment

What’s Happening in the Yukon Energy Parking Lot in Whitehorse?

Wondering what all the construction is for at our parking lot at the Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station? We have started our diesel replacement project in Whitehorse, which involves replacing diesel generators that were previously retired with newer, more efficient generators. You can read more about the project here.
Jun 27, 2025  Comment

Celebrating the Retirement of Jim Petelski: A Career of Dedication, Leadership, and Innovation

After nearly 24 years of exceptional service, Yukon Energy is proud to celebrate the retirement of Jim Petelski. Jim’s contributions to our organization, our people, and the broader energy industry have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Jim began his career with Yukon Energy on November 13, 2001, and over the years has held several key roles including a diesel turbine operator/tradesperson, maintenance mechanic, hydro maintenance leadhand and coordinator of mechanical projects. No matter his role, Jim has always been more than a committed employee. He is a leader and mentor, especially in challenging moments. When others faced problems, whether personal or work-related, Jim was the steady hand and the thoughtful voice who lifted everyone around him. His belief in turning setbacks into opportunities inspired countless colleagues to grow into stronger professionals. One powerful example of Jim’s leadership came during the Aishihik Unit 3 overhaul, where he proactively developed an emergency egress route in case of fire. When a water shaft seal filtration leak emerged, Jim’s quick thinking and decisive action helped secure the site and prevent further risk. Safety wasn’t just a checklist item for Jim—it was a core value he lived and led by every day. Going above and beyond Jim’s work ethic is second to none. He regularly spent extended periods away from his family, tackling complex projects with professionalism and purpose. During the recent Aishihik Unit 1 forced outage, Jim set up shop at Aishihik to align contractors, activities and to ensure site safety before and during the project. He also travelled to Montreal and the UK to oversee factory acceptance testing on critical equipment. No matter where his work took him, Jim brought an unwavering sense of responsibility to everything he touched. One of Jim’s unique contributions was his work underwater on our hydro assets. Thanks to his diving experience, he had the rare opportunity to inspect areas such as intakes, pressure tunnels, penstocks, and tailraces—something no one else at Yukon Energy has done to the same extent. His deep understanding of our facilities, both above and below the surface, is truly one of a kind. Creativity that shaped the way we work Jim’s creativity and innovation didn’t just solve problems—it redefined how we approach them. When faced with the challenge of moving heavy equipment to the generator floor at Aishihik, he engineered a solution using specialized trolleys, avoiding riskier and more time-consuming alternatives. It was safer, smarter, and emblematic of Jim’s problem-solving mindset. But his creativity doesn’t stop there. Jim’s passion for photography and creative eye capturing landscapes and wildlife around our facilities continues to remind all staff of the unique environment we work in. Plus, we’d be remiss not to mention the revamped Aishihik site orientation video… An industry role model Jim’s career has been a masterclass in dedication, innovation, and integrity. He set new standards for safety, led with compassion and conviction, and brought a spirit of excellence to everything he did. His impact is felt not only within Yukon Energy, but across the energy industry—where he has earned respect and admiration. While we will all miss Jim, we thank him for his years of service and his unwavering commitment as he embarks on his well-earned retirement. Congratulations, Jim. You will always be a part of the Yukon Energy family.
Jun 06, 2025  Comment

Batteries On-Site at Whitehorse Grid-Scale Battery Energy Storage System  

The batteries have arrived at the new grid-scale battery energy storage system in Whitehorse. Crews are now working on their installation, with the process expected to be completed in the coming weeks. Following the installation, pre-commissioning tests will be conducted on-site once the battery connections are finalized. This project is an important part of our ongoing work to strengthen the territory’s electricity system and improve overall system resilience.  As this is a new type of project for the Yukon, there have been some technical challenges that crews are actively working to address. Commissioning is expected to start later this summer. We look forward to sharing updates as work progresses.   Once complete, the battery energy storage system will help us manage electricity more efficiently. It will store surplus power when demand is low and supply it back to the grid during higher-demand periods. This will be particularly useful during peak times in the winter and will also allow for quicker response during power outages, since the system can be activated immediately.  In addition to improving reliability, the system will support the integration of existing renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. These sources can vary depending on weather conditions, and battery storage will help balance the supply and demand on the grid.  Learn more about the project here.
News
May 27, 2025  Comment

Yukon Energy Receives 60-Day Licence Renewal for Whitehorse Hydro Facility

Whitehorse, Yukon - Yukon Energy has received a 60-day water use licence renewal from the Yukon Water Board for its Whitehorse hydro facility, allowing continued renewable electricity generation until July 30, 2025, while the long-term water use licensing process advances. Securing a new 20-year water licence for the facility is an essential step in ensuring reliable and renewable energy for Yukoners. The Whitehorse hydro facility supplies approximately 75% of the Yukon’s electricity demand in summer and 40% in winter. “Operating the Whitehorse hydro facility is critical to meeting the Yukon’s electricity needs,” said Michael Muller, Vice President of Planning, Environment, and Health and Safety. “Without it, we would have to rely on diesel to generate power in the summer and wouldn’t have enough power to keep the lights on during the winter.” In line with the Yukon Energy proposal, the 60-day licence stipulates that all gates must stay open at the Lewes Control Structure during the next 60 days.  Yukon Energy remains committed to ensuring renewable, dependable electricity for Yukoners today and for the long term.
May 21, 2025  Comment

Electricity Canada: The State of the Canadian Electricity Industry in 2025

Electricity Canada published its 2025 report, Electricity is Essential: The State of the Canadian Electricity Industry. The report outlines a clear and urgent challenge: to meet future demand, Canada must more than double its electricity supply over the next 25 years. The report finds that Canadian electricity providers are ready to rise to the occasion. While the path ahead involves obstacles like infrastructure development and regulatory hurdles, Electricity Canada points to practical solutions that can keep projects moving forward and ensure Canada remains a strong destination for energy investment. Read the report here: Electricity is essential - State of the Canadian electricity industry 2025 by Electricity Canada - Issuu
News, Media Releases
May 15, 2025  Comment

Yukon Energy Seeks Approval for Major Investments and Rate Increases to Strengthen Energy Security in the Yukon

Whitehorse, Yukon – Yukon Energy Corporation has submitted its 2025–2027 General Rate Application (GRA) to the Yukon Utilities Board (YUB), seeking approval for more than $350 million in system-wide investments over the next three years.  Key initiatives include completing the Whitehorse grid-scale battery energy storage system, renewing water licences for the Whitehorse, Mayo and Aishihik hydro facilities, rebuilding the Mayo spillway, replacing aging diesel units in Faro and Whitehorse, and upgrading Dawson City’s local power system with new poles and wires, and new backup diesel capacity.  The application outlines over 150 essential projects to maintain current renewable electricity generation, enhance reliability during peak winter demand and provide emergency backup. These investments support Yukon Energy’s five-year strategic plan to make the electricity system more robust and reliable, modernize the grid and expand renewable integration.  If approved, residents who use an average of 1,000 kWh of electricity each month could see their monthly bill increase by about $25 to $30 each year in 2025, 2026 and 2027. The YUB will determine the exact timing and amount of bill increases.  The Mayo spillway reconstruction, slope stabilization near Mayo A, and replacement of the aging surge chamber—totalling over $180 million—represent a large portion of the application and are significant by Yukon standards. Yukon Energy is actively pursuing funding partnerships to help mitigate rate impacts.  Government contributions to electrical infrastructure help offset rate pressures. For example, the $35 million battery energy storage system project received $16.5 million from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, reducing monthly bills by approximately $3.  The Yukon’s challenges mirror a broader national trend of utilities investing heavily to renew aging infrastructure and support growth in energy demand. Even with the proposed increases spread over three years, the Yukon’s electricity rates will remain the lowest in Northern Canada.  The GRA is subject to public review, and final approval is not expected until early 2026. More details are available here or yukonutilitiesboard.yk.ca. Quote:  “Over the past 25 years, on average, more than 90% of our electricity has come from renewable sources, powering essential services like hospitals and schools. To ensure continued reliability—especially through the Yukon’s long winters—we must invest in responsive, resilient infrastructure. These upgrades are crucial for long-term energy security.”  — Chris Milner, President and CEO, Yukon Energy Corporation  About Yukon Energy:  Founded in 1987, Yukon Energy is a publicly owned utility and the primary generator and transmitter of electricity across Yukon communities.  For media inquiries, please contact:  communications@yec.yk.ca 

May 12, 2025  Comment

Brushing in Bear Creek

Attention customers in Bear Creek, You may notice or have noticed surveyors around Bear Creek assessing trees and vegetation near power lines. They are determining which trees are growing too close to our power lines and need to be removed or trimmed (referred to as brushing). Brushing is necessary to ensure the safety and reliability of our electricity service. It also provides a safe, usable work area for Yukon Energy crews, contactors, and joint use operators to complete their work. Power lines knocked down by trees can be "live", and live wires can pose a serious safety risk. Once the surveyors have completed their work, Yukon Energy crews and contractors will be removing and/or trimming trees and vegetation that the surveyors have identified. The standard for brushing ranges from 3 to 12 metres, depending on the voltage of the line and the circumstance. If brushing is required on private property and there is no existing easement agreement with Yukon Energy, we will get permission from property owners. If you live in Bear Creek and do not have any issues with Yukon Energy brushing on your property, please fill out the permission form below and return by: Email: communications@yec.yk.ca Mail: Box 220 Dawson City, Yukon  Y0B 1G0 Please include ‘brushing permission form’ on outside of envelope If you have any questions, please contact communications@yec.yk.ca.
May 06, 2025  Comment

Understanding Your Recent Yukon Energy Bills

Yukon Energy would like to thank our customers for their continued support. We know the past few months have been frustrating for many due to billing issues, and we truly appreciate your patience as we work through them.  Recently, some customers received higher-than-expected bills. We understand this may have come as a surprise, and if that’s the case for you, please know that we hear your concerns — and we’re here to help. We’ve spoken with many of you and know there are questions, so we’ve outlined some key information below.  Many recent bills reflect a true-up after a period of estimated billing. What this means is that for the past few months, bills were based on estimated electricity use, as we were without a meter reader in Dawson City and Mayo. Now that we have hired a field service representative and have been able to take an actual meter reading, your bill is being adjusted to reflect the energy you actually used.  Why Did This Happen?  We rely on estimated bills when weather or road conditions prevent our meter reader from reading your bill, when access to the meter is blocked or when we have staff shortages. It’s not uncommon for electricity bills to be estimated during the winter. Estimates are calculated based on an average of how much electricity your home or business used over the last year.   Estimates are then “trued up” the next time your meter is physically read. This means the billing system compares the amount of electricity your home or business actually used over a period of time (i.e., between October and February) vs. the amount of electricity the system estimated you used over the same time period.   This results in “a corrected bill” which many people would have received in recent months. The bill shows how much electricity was used during each billing cycle, and either a credit (if your estimates were higher than your actual usage and you paid too much) or, in some cases, a higher bill if more electricity was used than estimated and there is an amount left owing.   Each time this happens, one of our customer service representatives manually reviews your bill before it’s sent to you to make sure rates, riders and credits are correctly applied to your bill for each month your meter was estimated.  And if that wasn’t enough, April is also the time that accounts on a budget plan were settled.  Do you have your account set up so that you pay the same amount each month no matter how much electricity you’ve used? If so, you’re one of our budget plan customers.  April is the month when accounts on a budget payment plan get settled each year. This is when Yukon Energy compares the actual cost of the electricity you used over the past plan year (i.e., May to April) to the total amount of your budget payments during that time.   As a result, payment plan customers receive a bill that shows either a credit if they’ve overpaid (i.e., payments over the year were more than the cost of the electricity used), or a balance owing if they’ve used more electricity than they paid for throughout the year.  What We’re Doing About It  We understand how difficult it can be to manage unexpected expenses. That’s why we are taking the following steps:  Regular meter reading: We’ve hired a new field service representative to help ensure meters are read more regularly in Dawson City and Mayo. They will also be reading meters in Faro moving forward.  Flexible payment options: If your bill is higher than expected and you're finding it difficult to pay them, we offer payment plan options to help you spread out the cost over several months. Just reach out to our customer service team — we're here to work with you.  Community visits: We'll be visiting Dawson, Mayo and Faro on a rotational basis to ensure more customers have access to in-person support. This is one of the reasons why our Dawson City office is open to walk-in traffic for only one week every month or two.   Resolving your concerns: Our small team is working diligently to address outstanding customer concerns in the order they are received, and at the same time proactively reviewing accounts as meters are read going forward.  We understand that no one likes high bills — especially in uncertain times. Please know that your concerns are valid, and we're working hard behind the scenes to improve service and billing accuracy for everyone.   If you have questions about your bill, or want to discuss setting up a payment plan, please contact us at (867) 993-5565 or billing@yec.yk.ca. Our customer service representatives are available between 9 am and 4 pm, Monday to Friday, unless there’s a holiday. If you reach our voicemail, please leave a message with your name and contact information so that we can get back to you as soon as possible. Our in-house customer service team is ready to help.   We appreciate your understanding as we work through this process. We’re especially grateful to those who’ve reached out with patience and kindness — it means a lot to our team. Thank you for being a Yukon Energy customer. 

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