Statement from Minister Clarke and Minister Streicker on Earth Day

Minister of Environment Nils Clarke and Minister responsible for the Yukon Development Corporation and the Yukon Energy Corporation John Streicker have issued the following statement:

“April 22, 2025, marks the 55th anniversary of Earth Day. This year’s theme, Our Power, Our Planet, invites everyone around the world to unite behind renewable energy.

“The Yukon is a leader in providing renewable energy, with over 90 per cent of electricity generated from renewable resources over the last 25 years. Most of the power produced comes from our three hydroelectric dams: Whitehorse Rapids, Aishihik and Mayo Hydro Plants.

“The Yukon’s growing population and increased electrification of our economy have significantly increased electrical demand and requires new sources of reliable, affordable and renewable energy.

“Yukon First Nations governments, corporations and organizations are developing and implementing renewable energy projects in every community. These projects have been supported with funding from Canada and the Yukon. Some projects that have been advanced by Yukon First Nations that are now delivering power to Yukoners include:

• Kluane N’tsi Wind Energy Project
• Haeckel Hill Wind
• Dome Road Solar
• Sree Vyah Solar – Old Crow Solar
• Beaver Creek Solar
• Sunergy Haines Junction Solar

“Our government recognizes that clean energy solutions are not only vital to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also protecting our ecosystems, wildlife and traditional ways of life for future generations.

“Looking forward, Yukon Development Corporation – in collaboration with Yukon Energy Corporation, Energy, Mines and Resources and First Nations – is advancing long term energy planning to meet growing energy demands and further Our Clean Future’s aspirational goal of 97 per cent renewable electricity. Following best practices, this will include a Pathways Assessment, Energy Roadmap and Integrated Resource Plan to assess, plan for and deliver new reliable sources of affordable and renewable capacity.

“The Yukon-BC Grid Connect feasibility study is one of the steps we are taking right now to explore and advance promising options to meet the Yukon’s growing need for more reliable, affordable and renewable energy.

“We are also exploring other opportunities to increase power generation in the Yukon through discussions with Yukon First Nations and stakeholders, with a focus on increasing winter capacity to meet the growing demand.

“The Government of Yukon is committed to ensuring a reliable, affordable and renewable supply of energy to meet the Yukon’s current and future needs. This positions the Yukon to seize opportunities to increase prosperity and sovereignty through economic opportunities in sustainable development and renewable energy.

“Earth Day is a reminder that the health of our planet depends on collective action across all areas of environmental protection. Advancing clean, renewable energy is one of the most impactful ways we can reduce emissions and fight climate change – but it’s also important that we continue to protect our ecosystems, steward our natural resources and support climate resilience across the territory.

“Our government remains committed to a future where clean energy, conservation and sustainable land use go hand in hand to protect what makes this territory so special.”