On Thursday, the governments of Canada and Yukon announced joint funding for the construction of a solar power project in Dawson City. In fact, this initiative aims to help Canadians better address the impacts of COVID-19. Similarly, the administrations are looking to ensure community infrastructure is safe and reliable for families.
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About the energy efficiency initiative
Accordingly, the officials in charge of making the announcement were the Honourable Larry Bagnell, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages; also and Member of Parliament for the Yukon.
Similarly, the Honourable Daniel Vandal, Federal Minister of Northern Affairs; the Honourable Richard Mostyn, Yukon Minister for Community Services; Jackie Olson, President of the Klondike Development Organization (KDO); and His Worship Wayne Potoroka, Mayor of Dawson City.
Therefore, the Government of Canada is investing $486,000 in this project through the Arctic Energy Fund. Besides, it will provide $105,000 through the Northern REACHE Program. On the other hand, the Government of Yukon is investing $71,500. Lastly, the Klondike Development Organization is contributing $101,949 to this project and the City of Dawson $11,500.
Particularly, through this project, the Klondike Development Organization will construct a solar power project on the City’s former landfill. Thus, the project aims to offset the community’s carbon footprint; specifically through renewable energy production.
Once the project is ready, the governments of Canada and Yukon expect to generate 280MWh of energy each year in Dawson City. Also, about 91.6 tonnes of annual greenhouse gas emissions offsets; thereby reducing dependency on Dawson City’s backup diesel generation plant.
Reception in Canada and Yukon
Per the announcement, The Honourable Larry Bagnell commented in a media release; “Indeed, access to reliable sources of energy is essential for northern communities to thrive. Therefore, this new solar power project will provide a reliable and efficient source of energy for Dawson City. Besides, it will help tackle climate change. Moreover, Canada’s Infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates good jobs across Canada. And lastly, it builds cleaner, more inclusive communities.”
Similarly, The Honourable Daniel Vandal, P.C., M.P., Federal Minister of Northern Affairs said; “The Government of Canada is proud to have supported the Klondike Development Organization; particularly, in the planning phase of the Dome Road Solar Plant. Thus, the project will bring environmental, social and economic benefits to the people of Dawson City.”
Finally, The Honourable John Streicker, Yukon Minister responsible for the Yukon Development Corporation said; “In fact, it’s great to see renewable energy projects in all of our communities. Therefore, these projects help the Yukon meet the goals set out in Our Clean Future; particularly, while reducing the local reliance on fossil fuels, in turn making Dawson City more self-sufficient.”
