Joseph Bradley

Yukon-B.C. Grid Connect

The Yukon’s electricity grid is nearing capacity – especially on the coldest days of winter. The Government of Yukon is taking immediate actions to meet peak energy needs, while also advancing a Yukon-B.C. transmission line as a promising long-term option. This potential transmission line does not replace the need for significant new electricity generation in the territory to meet growing demand.

Proposed routes

The project is assessing the feasibility of 2 potential transmission line routes connecting the Yukon and B.C. power grids. Both prospective routes follow Highway 37 in northwest B.C. from Bob Quinn lake to the Yukon border. From the Yukon border, we're assessing the Alaska Highway and the Robert Campbell Highway as options.

Proposed routes for the Yukon-B.C. transmission line.  Route option A runs from Bob Quinn Lake B.C. to just outside Faro, Yukon.  Route option B runs from Bob Quinn Lake B.C. to Whitehorse.

Project timelines

The Government of Yukon is advancing the project through the feasibility phase with $40 million in funding from Canada's Critical Mineral Infrastructure Fund and $13 million from the YDC Fund. 

A timeline of the the Yukon-B.C. Grid Connect project showing activities from 2025 until 2037 and beyond.

Energy planning

According to Natural Resources Canada, the foundation of connecting 2 electrical grids is solid energy system planning. This allows jurisdictions to truly understand their electricity supply and demand projections, new generation and transmission opportunities, and the feasibility of connecting 2 grid networks. This important planning will take place in collaboration with electrical utilities and Yukon First Nations.

Shared Grid/ Shared Benefits

The Yukon Development Corporation (YDC) engaged leading engineering, economics and policy experts to assess the potential economic, environmental and social benefits of a Yukon-B.C. transmission line.

Contact

If you have questions, email [email protected]