Construction is underway
We will be installing the substation's transformer between November 9 and November 12, 2022. Part of this work will require us to operate machinery for a continuous, 48-hour period. During this time, the sound you will hear will be equivalent to the sound of a truck idling. If you have any concerns, please contact communications@yec.yk.ca.
As construction continues, be sure to use caution on the trails and waterways around the substation. The section of Millennium Trail between the Rotary Centennial Bridge and the Fish Ladder is closed. Fencing and signage is in place to let users know of the restricted access. Please avoid the area behind and around the substation, keep pets on a leash, and let children know to avoid the area.
Work at the substation will typically happen between the hours of 7 am and 7 pm, Monday to Saturday, excluding most statutory holidays. During these times, you can expect to hear noise typical of a construction site, but we’ll make sure our work abides by all noise bylaws.
Demand for electricity in the Yukon is expected to grow by 40% in the next 10 years.
To help meet the demand, we’re working on projects in our 10-year Renewable Electricity Plan to increase capacity on the Yukon grid, including:
But all these new sources of electricity need a way to reach you. Upgrading the Riverside substation is the link that connects the additional electricity to the Yukon grid so that Yukoners can use it.
We own two substations near the Whitehorse Rapids Generating Station specifically designed to connect electricity to the grid. One is in our parking lot and the other, the Riverside substation, on Nisutlin Drive.
The substation in our parking lot is at capacity. The Riverside substation is the only one that has the space around it to add the new equipment we need for the upgrade.
The Yukon is growing and so is the demand for electricity. The upgraded substation will make more electricity available to Yukoners during peak times of use in the winter.
Upgrading an existing substation and transmission line instead of building new ones reduces the project’s impact on the environment, wildlife and the Riverdale community. It also costs less.