When Is Electric Heat OK?

Today's question: What is Yukon Energy's perspective on using electric power for residential heating (in Whitehorse)? For example our oil-fired boiler is 50 years old and will need to be replaced soon. We've heard that an electric boiler would be more environmentally friendly since most of the Yukon's power comes from hydro. Yet I see from the daily energy consumption graph today that even when the nighttime temperature is only in the -5C to -10C range Yukon Energy is still needing to use diesel to meet demand.

So if we convert to an electric boiler, and so do X number of other households following the same line of reasoning, one can reasonably expect that Yukon Energy's diesel use will also increase. In effect all we'll have done is shift residential diesel use to Yukon Energy, placing a larger burden on an aging infrastructure. Yes more energy sources are going to come online in the next few years, but at what point will hydro power for heat *actually* shift the balance to be a real environmental choice (if ever)?

Thanks. Your question is a good one and you have identified the crux of the issue. It is not Yukon Energy's place to dictate how people should heat their homes. That is obviously an individual choice. However it is important that Yukoners understand that heating with electricity may result in Yukon Energy having to burn more diesel. This may ultimately drive up the cost of electricity for all Yukoners, no matter what they use to heat their homes.

At this point I cannot predict if or when the "shift" that you speak of will take place. That, in part, will depend on the type and amount of renewable energy Yukon Energy is able to develop. Please know that the Corporation is working as hard as possible to find new sources of power that are not just environmentally responsible but also affordable, reliable, and flexible.

I'm afraid I haven't given you a very satisfactory answer in terms of your own particular situation. All I can suggest is that you weigh the pros and cons and choose what works best for your family.