Yukon Energy is constantly looking ahead to the future. We know that by 2011, we will likely need a fair bit more renewable energy than we have now (even if no new mines come on stream). If we don't have that extra green power, we'll have to use more diesel to generate electricity. That's something we simply don't want to do.
In looking for more renewable energy, our first priority is to get the most we possibly can out of our existing hydro facilities, before we build new ones. As such, we are looking at expanding the existing Mayo hydro plant, a potential project we call Mayo B.
No decision has been made at this time to move forward with this proposed project. In February of this year we filed an application to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board (YESAB). However this filing is just one step in the process.
For the last several months we have been consulting with local governments, stakeholders and the public. These consultations will continue. Public involvement is important to help Yukon Energy plan and shape this project and to help YESAB carry out its assessment of potential project effects.
We are also working closely with the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun to reach an Memorandium of Understanding and a Project Agreement. Various permits and government approvals are required and the project needs a new or revised water licence from the Yukon Water Board. Yukon Energy has also committed to taking all projects worth more than $3 million to our regulator, the Yukon Utilities Board, for review.
The proposed Mayo B project involves building a new powerhouse about three kilometres downstream from the existing powerhouse. This would double the amount of energy that can be generated from the Mayo River. No changes would be required at Wareham Lake or to the Wareham dam. The current plan is to maintain the existing powerhouse for use as required in the future.
A major part of the Mayo B project would be the construction of a mechanism to divert water from the existing intake to a new powerhouse. Possible options include building a canal or an underground tunnel to carry water to the new building.
You can find more details about this project here and here, or you are welcome to contact us for further information.
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