A new report from the Yukon Development Corporation outlines the massive potential of a proposed high-voltage transmission line connecting the Yukon to British Columbia’s power grid.
The Shared Grid / Shared Benefits report estimates the project could generate up to $7.6 billion annually in economic activity, create 36,000 long-term Canadian jobs, and shift several northern communities and mining operations off diesel and onto renewable power.
The plan would connect Yukon’s standalone grid — built in the 1950s — to BC’s system, enabling a two-way flow of clean electricity. That would help meet Yukon’s growing peak winter demand, reduce reliance on diesel generators, and open the door for 2,000 megawatts of new renewable energy in the region.
Six remote communities are slated for electrification, including Watson Lake and Upper Liard in the Yukon, and Dease Lake, Good Hope Lake, Lower Post, and potentially Telegraph Creek in BC.
The federal government has already invested $40 million toward the project through the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund. The transmission line also supports Canada’s strategy to secure and develop critical minerals, essential for clean technologies.
An estimated 45% of the project’s clean growth would benefit Yukon directly, and First Nations are being engaged as key partners to lead new renewable energy initiatives in their territories.
The project marks a major step toward clean energy independence and economic development in the North.
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