The Yukon Government has taken the first step in a comprehensive investigation of a new large-scale hydroelectric power facility for the Canadian territory with the release of its planning directive work plan.
Next Generation Hydro for Yukon, released last week by the Yukon Development Corporation (YDC), is a blueprint for identifying and investigating potential new hydroelectric power sites. The Minister responsible for YDC, Scott Kent, said the corporation was eager to get to work on the 'vital' project, which will bring long-term benefits to Yukon.
Year one of the work plan is scheduled to begin this month and conclude next May. Actions here will include: hiring a project coordinator and creating a technical advisory committee; commissioning technical work; identifying potential partnerships; and identifying options for the location and financing of a new hydroelectric power site.
"With this milestone marked, we have taken the first step in moving forward on Next Generation Hydro for Yukon," YDC Chair Joanne Fairlie said. "This is the beginning of important and groundbreaking work to come."
The plan sets up a comprehensive engagement process that includes stakeholder and community meetings, a second First Nation Energy Forum and a Next Generation Hydro and Transmission Viability Conference. It also details the financial resources needed to implement this initiative.
Under subsection 6(1) of the Yukon Development Corporation Act, YDC was directed in November 2013 to plan one or more hydroelectric projects that will meet the expected growth in demand for electric power. Construction of a new hydroelectric facility is expected to be a 10- to 15-year process.
