Yukon Shines Brighter: Canada Backs Major Indigenous-Led Solar Project

Canada Invests Millions in Indigenous-Led Solar Project in Yukon

The federal government is making a significant investment in a groundbreaking Indigenous-led solar project in Watson Lake, Yukon. The Sādę Solar Initiative, a 2.85 MW solar power plant combined with battery energy storage, aims to significantly reduce the community's reliance on diesel generators and foster economic growth for the Liard First Nation.

Key Takeaways

• The Sādę Solar Initiative will feature a 2.85 MW solar array and battery energy storage system.

• It will connect to Watson Lake's existing microgrid, currently powered by diesel.

• The project is expected to replace approximately one-quarter of the diesel-generated power in Watson Lake.

• The initiative is a collaboration between the Canadian federal government, the Government of Yukon, and First Kaska Utilities LP.

• It is hailed as the largest Indigenous-led solar energy project in the Canadian North.

Project Details and Impact

Groundbreaking for the Sādę Solar Initiative occurred recently in Watson Lake. This ambitious project will integrate a solar-plus-storage array into the town's current microgrid, which relies heavily on diesel generators. Once operational at full capacity, the solar plant is projected to generate more energy than the peak demand, enabling the complete shutdown of diesel generators.

Economic and Community Benefits

Located within the traditional territory of the Liard First Nation (LFN), the Sādę Solar Initiative is poised to deliver substantial economic advantages to the Indigenous community. The project will create jobs and training opportunities, and crucially, it will allow the LFN to sell surplus power to the grid operator, generating revenue and promoting energy independence.

Financial Investment and Support

The initiative is backed by a substantial investment exceeding CAD 28.6 million (approximately $20.8 million). This funding comes from a partnership involving the Canadian federal government, the Government of Yukon, and First Kaska Utilities LP, an economic development corporation of the LFN. Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament for the Yukon, emphasized the project's role in enhancing the sustainability and affordability of northern communities while ensuring reliable energy for the future. Canada's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson, highlighted the project's significance as the largest Indigenous-led solar endeavor in the Canadian North.

Sources

• Canada invests in Indigenous-led 2.85 MW solar project – pv magazine International, pv magazine International.