What About the Wind Turbines?

Today's question: What's happening with the wind turbines on Haeckel Hill? I see that one is working, but the smaller one hasn't worked for awhile.

Thanks for the question. You are correct that the largest of the two turbines is working. As I write this, the Vestas turbine is generating 380 kilowatts of power (enough to provide electricity to about 50 homes). That power is being fed into our grid and is being used just as our hydro is. Although it doesn't generate a huge amount, this wind turbine is a valuable part of our generation assets.

The smaller turbine, now more than 20 years old (it was erected in 1993) has some mechanical problems. As the unit ages (20 years is pretty much the lifespan of these turbines), it is becoming more and more difficult to find parts. In fact the company that produced this turbine doesn't even exist any more. We are in the process of doing an assessment to see if it makes more sense to keep repairing it, or if it should be retired and replaced (similar to the debate people have with themselves when their vehicles get old and require more frequent and costly repairs). Once our analysis is complete and we have made a decision we will let Yukoners know.