New power plants and silencers are being considered as potential solutions to address the complaints about diesel generator noise in a Whitehorse neighborhood, as reported by the Yukon Energy Corporation. A petition, supported by nearly 200 Riverdale residents, was recently presented in the legislature by the NDP, highlighting concerns about the noise emitted by diesel generators used for electricity generation in Whitehorse, Faro, Mayo, and Dawson City without established noise standards.
The petition calls for the Yukon Legislative Assembly to implement regulations on noise emissions, including setting limits on frequency and volume levels, and urges the Yukon Energy Corporation to take steps to reduce noise from both existing and new generators. The petition emphasizes that diesel generators, crucial during the coldest and darkest winter months in the territory, operate continuously, affecting the residents’ right to peaceful living spaces.
In response to the petition, Environment Minister Wade Istchenko assured the legislature that Yukon Energy is actively addressing the issue by conducting a design study on noise mitigation strategies, engaging in procurement processes, and installing necessary equipment. Istchenko also mentioned plans to implement measures to reduce nighttime noise levels and establish a complaint management system for the affected community.
Yukon Energy’s Vice-president of planning, health, and safety, Michael Muller, acknowledged the longstanding concerns and stated that engineering firms have been engaged to identify the sources of noise and develop solutions to minimize it. Muller refuted claims made in the petition regarding the persistence of noise from diesel generators at the Whitehorse rapids, emphasizing that efforts were made to reduce the use of older generators during extreme cold periods last winter.
As part of ongoing initiatives, a request for proposals has been issued for customized replacement silencers or mufflers for the older generators at the rapids. The upcoming Whitehorse power centers project aims to relocate newer diesel generators away from residential areas, equipped with sound mitigation measures, to decrease reliance on the older units at the rapids.
Looking ahead, Yukon Energy is committed to meeting noise mitigation requirements by 2026 as stipulated in its air emission permit, with the expectation that these efforts will result in noticeable improvements for residents affected by the diesel generator noise.
Riverdale South MLA Justin Ziegler highlighted noise pollution as a significant concern raised by constituents during the election campaign, expressing worries about the potential mental health impacts on residents in Riverdale and other affected areas. Ziegler stressed the importance of ensuring that future electricity production meets acceptable noise standards to safeguard the well-being of the community. He expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the power plant project in addressing the noise issue.