Yukon Energy Corporation is pushing forward with its plans to replace two aging diesel generators with a $40-million liquefied natural gas facility. The LNG proposal is now in front of the regulatory Yukon Utilities Board.
The utilities board wants to hear the public’s views on this project. The Yukon Conservation Society encourages people to attend and participate in this public meeting or submit written comments to tell the utilities board that our public utility should invest in more renewable energy, not more fossil fuels.
The utility board’s public session on Yukon Energy’s LNG project proposal is Monday, March 31, at 7 p.m. at the Westmark Whitehorse. If you plan to speak at this meeting, you must register in advance with the utilities board by this Friday, March 28. To register, email yub@utilitiesboard.yk.ca or call 667-7500.
The utilities board is looking at Yukon Energy’s LNG project proposal, specifically whether it is prudent, whether there is a need for the project, the associated risks, and project alternatives.
In addition to these areas, the utilities board wants to hear peoples’ views on whether the LNG facility is in the public interest, how it may impact or benefit the public, suggestions on what recommendations the utilities board should make to government about the project, and any other information that supports your position.
For people who do not want to speak at the meeting, but wish to share their views with the utilities board, it will accept written comments until Monday, March 31. You must include your name with your comments.
YCS believes that this project should not proceed because it will expand and entrench the Yukon’s dependence on fossil fuels. LNG worsens climate change, undermines renewable energy, requires fracking, and will expose ratepayers to rising costs of finite resources. Efficiency, conservation and the development of renewable energy sources are better alternatives to Yukon Energy’s LNG proposal.
If you have questions, would like assistance in registering for the public session or help preparing a written or oral statement, please contact Anne Middler at YCS at 668-5678. More information on YCS’s position on LNG can be found at www.yukonconservation.org/energy_climate_change.htm
More information about the LNG project and the YUB process can be found at yukonutilitiesboard.yk.ca/proceedings/yec-lng-project-proceeding/
Anne Middler
Energy Coordinator,
Yukon Conservation Society