FOR RELEASE     #08-242
October 6, 2008

Whitehorse - The Yukon government will lower its carbon footprint by increasing its capacity for hydroelectric power generation, Premier Dennis Fentie said.

"We are proposing a partnership with the federal government, First Nations and the private sector to complete Phase 2 of the Carmacks-Stewart transmission line to connect with the Mayo-Dawson transmission line," Fentie said. "We also propose a project to upgrade the Mayo Dam, a project referred to as Mayo B, which will lower our dependence on diesel fuel."

The Mayo B project will allow Yukoners to reduce their carbon footprint by getting off diesel power generation resulting in CO² reductions of up to 28,000 tonnes a year.

"This would increase our hydroelectric capacity by an additional 40GWH/year and give Yukoners greater access to inexpensive green energy and help to lower their power bills," Fentie added.

Today, the Yukon Energy Corporation announced it is applying to the Yukon Utility Board to reduce the first block energy charges, up to 1,000 kilowatt hours, by 17.8 per cent. This would result in a decrease of $22.26 per month for residential non-government customers who are able to keep their power consumption below 1,000 kilowatt hours per month. Business customers within block one, up to 2,000 kilowatt hours per month, will receive a reduction of 13.5 per cent.

Yukon Energy is also seeking approval on rate increases for power used in the second block.

"We promised Yukoners that we would be applying for a rate reduction once the Minto Mine comes on stream and we are meeting that commitment. At the same time by increasing the rate on block two power over 1000 kilowatt hours and 2,000 kilowatt hours respectively, we are encouraging energy conservation," Fentie said.

"Yukoners are encouraged to participate in the wide range of programs and services offered by the Energy Solutions Centre and the Yukon Housing Corporation to help reduce their energy consumption," Fentie added.

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