August 17, 2022 Yukon Natural Resources Canada
Communities across the North and Arctic are prioritizing cleaner, more reliable energy sources, as they continue to feel the impacts of climate change. By investing in renewable energy initiatives that support energy independence and economic development, we can keep our air cleaner and build resilient, healthy communities for everyone to call home, all while creating good-paying, sustainable jobs and lowering harmful greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The Yukon is leading the country in its pursuit of cleaner energy and climate change initiatives. And today, as part of his visit to the Yukon, the Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, on behalf of the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources, announced an investment of nearly $15.5 million from the federal government for the Copper Niisüü Limited Partnership, the development corporation of White River First Nation, to deploy the Beaver Creek Solar Project.
This investment includes over $13.4 million from Natural Resources Canada's Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities program and $2 million from the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency's Inclusive Diversification and Economic Advancement in the North (IDEANorth) program.
The Beaver Creek Solar Project, located on the Traditional Territory of the White River First Nation, will reduce the community's reliance on diesel for electricity while creating training and skills opportunities for its residents and generating a sustainable income for Copper Niisüü Limited Partnership that can be invested in future clean energy initiatives and other community priorities.
The project, with 1.9 megawatts (MW) of solar panels and 3.5 MWh of battery energy storage, is expected to generate an average of 1,100 MWh per year, displacing approximately 55 percent of diesel consumption for electricity generation. Using life-cycle emissions of diesel fuel, the project will reduce on average 1,100 tonnes of CO2 annually and will help the community reduce their reliance on diesel and provide greater energy security.
Canada's 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy ensures Canada will remain a world leader in clean power. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting local solutions and community-driven projects that will build a clean energy future for all. Together, we are building healthier, greener and more energy-resilient communities for future generations.
