Yukon Energy has historically met over 90% of Yukon's electricity needs each year with clean, renewable power because of our large supply of hydroelectricity. In 2017, only 3% of Yukon's greenhouse gas emissions were caused by electricity generation.
In July 2019, we released our 5-year strategic plan with a bold 10-year vision to be a Canadian leader in sustainable energy by 2030. Later that year, based on the input of Yukoners, we also decided not to move forward with the development of a new 20-megawatt thermal generation facility to supply electricity during emergency conditions.
In November 2019, Yukon government released a draft of its Our Clean Future strategy, with a vision for addressing climate change by building thriving, resilient communities powered by clean energy and supported by a sustainable green economy. In it, the government proposes an average of 93% of electricity generated on the grid be produced from renewable sources, and includes specific actions to electrify the territory’s transportation and heating sectors.
Our 10-year renewable electricity plan shows how, together, the visions of the Yukon government, Yukon Energy and Yukoners themselves can be interlocked in a way that will bring about the Yukon we all envision.
It’s a big plan that features opportunities for individuals, communities and First Nations. It’s a plan that features innovation and challenges. It’s a plan that depends on all of us for ultimate success.
The Yukon of the future – one where renewable electricity continues to fuel our lives, work and economy – is within our reach. But we must act now and we must act together.