The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) is investing a total of $425,000 in the Yukon Energy Corporation to undertake two projects which will examine options for long-term, clean energy solutions for the Yukon.
Waste to Energy Project
CanNor Funding: $225,000
Yukon Energy Corporation: $225,000
Funding will be used to carry out a feasibility study and develop a business plan related to waste recovery technology that would convert municipal garbage into electrical energy. If the feasibility study demonstrates that there is potential to recover waste at the facility, the project could have many positive economic and environmental benefits for Yukon. Outcomes could include the development of a wood pellet industry, a new market for waste wood, and using trees affected by spruce beetle. This project also has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decrease the waste at Yukon landfills.
Energy Charrette and Research Project
CanNor funding: $200,000
Yukon Energy Corporation: $170,000
CanNor funding will be used for research and public engagement activities to examine various energy options for Yukon. YEC will be hosting community meetings in Mayo, Dawson City and Haines Junction to discuss alternative energy options and issues. As well, research will be conducted into new hydro, thermal, wind, geothermal, solar, natural gas, and other alternative forms of energy.
CanNor's investment also supported an energy charrette hosted by YEC in Whitehorse in March 2011. The charrette brought nationally recognized energy experts from across Canada to present information to Yukoners on energy resource options and energy conservation programs. Over 75 Yukon stakeholders participated in the charrette representing federal, territorial, First Nation and municipal governments as well as industry, business, and members of the community. The charrette was an opportunity for Yukoners and YEC to participate in focused discussions on Yukon's energy future.
CEstablished in 1987, the Yukon Energy Corporation is a publicly owned electrical utility that operates at arms length from the Yukon government. YEC is the main generator and transmitter of electrical energy in Yukon and works with its parent company, Yukon Development Corporation to provide Yukoners with energy services.
This investment is made possible through CanNor's Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED) initiative, which focuses on long-term economic growth, economic diversification and capacity building in all three territories.
SINED is one of several economic development initiatives within CanNor. CanNor is responsible for coordinating and delivering Canada's economic development across the North, and for related policy development, research and advocacy.
