Whitehorse, Yukon, is not facing an immediate threat of blackouts, according to ATCO Electric Yukon, despite the extreme cold weather. However, residents are still urged to conserve energy during the holiday season. With temperatures dropping below -40°C in most Yukon communities, including Whitehorse, and reaching -50°C in Ross River and Faro, the energy grid is under significant strain. The energy minister warned of potential rolling blackouts as a last resort if demand exceeds supply. ATCO Electric's vice-president, Jay Massie, assures that Whitehorse has a 'good buffer' before reaching that point. Yukon Energy's Stephanie Cunha confirms that industrial customers and mine remediation sites have already been asked to switch to diesel generators, and communities have been moved to diesel power. Despite the situation, Massie emphasizes the importance of public awareness about rolling blackouts and encourages residents to take energy-saving measures, such as using appliances outside peak hours and turning off unused lights and electronics. The Yukon Energy website outlines a multi-step emergency plan to manage peak demand, including the possibility of sending an emergency alert to residents to stop non-essential electricity use.
