Features Geothermal
Federal government invests in Yukon geothermal energy

March 10, 2015, Whitehorse, Yukon – The Yukon government will work with the Yukon Geological Survey and the Canadian Geothermal
Energy Association to develop maps and reports that will identify
sources of renewable energy.

March 10, 2015, Whitehorse, Yukon – The Yukon government will work with the Yukon Geological Survey and the Canadian Geothermal
Energy Association to develop maps and reports that will identify
sources of renewable energy.

Yukon MP Ryan Leef,
on behalf of environment minister Leona Aglukkaq, last week announced
funding for research and
development into potential renewable sources of natural geothermal
energy in Yukon. This project was undertaken to contribute to economic
development and energy security in the territory, said the Canadian
Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) in a news release.

In addition to CanNor's funding of $126,000 over two years, Yukon is investing up to $18,000, and the Canadian Geothermal Energy Association is investing $13,150. With contributions from other funders, a total of $168,000 is being invested in this project.Newly developed maps will provide geological, geophysical, and
environmental information to identify and evaluate geothermal energy
potential in Yukon. Takhini Hot Springs is an example of a project in Yukon
that successfully uses geothermal energy for heat and power and will be
able to provide its existing data to help with the creation of this
project.

"This project will build the knowledge base required for companies who
have an interest in geothermal energy production. The initial mapping
will significantly decrease the costs associated with geothermal
exploration and help promote development of this renewable resource,"
said Scott Kent, Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources, Government of Yukon.

"This is a landmark opportunity for all that live and work in the
Yukon. The Territory is now one step closer to realizing the potential
that geothermal heat and power has for the economy, the environment,
First Peoples, taxpayers and businesses," said Alison Thompson of the Canadian Geothermal Energy Association.