Elijah Smith Elementary School has been equipped with a new biomass heating system.

It builds on the Yukon government’s commitment to support a strong and sustainable future for generations to come, the government said Wednesday.

Biomass is a clean, renewable energy source that reduces fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. Heat is created by burning organic matter like wood.

The system is forecast to reduce the school’s reliance on propane and lower its greenhouse emissions by approximately 180 tonnes annually.

The venture contributes to action H17 and meeting goal area 2 of Our Clean Future, the government’s strategy for addressing climate change, building a green economy, and ensuring Yukoners can access reliable, affordable, and renewable energy.

Action H17 directs the Department of Highways and Public Works to “install renewable heat sources such as biomass energy in Government of Yukon buildings.”

Goal area 2 involves “undertaking energy efficiency retrofits and installing renewable heating systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Government of Yukon buildings.”

The system’s construction contractor has taken on the additional responsibility of operating and maintaining the system, through a “build-maintain-operate” model.

This approach was developed through consultation with local industry. It’s planned to create economic benefits by providing local operators with additional opportunities to support and service public infrastructure.

Using systems like biomass reduces the need for non-renewable heating fuels, further contributing to a clean, green and sustainable future for the territory.

“Our government is committed to reducing our carbon footprint,” said Highways and Public Works Minister Nils Clarke, who took part in a media tour of the system on Wednesday afternoon.

“Through projects like the Elijah Smith Elementary School biomass system, we are taking concrete action to achieve our emissions-reduction goals and supporting a strong, sustainable environment for future generations.”

His department engaged with biomass contractors in July 2021 to discuss plans for the Elijah Smith School biomass project and to listen to their suggestions and feedback.

The contract was awarded to Budget Plumbing and Heating in the fall of 2021. The total value of the construction work is $2.3 million.

“It is inspiring to see the integration of clean energy systems into our public buildings,” said Energy, Mines and Resources Minister John Streicker.

“The presence of a biomass heating system at the Elijah Smith Elementary School in Whitehorse is a testament to the exciting progress we are making towards a sustainable future.

“Biomass offers a strong solution, harnessing local renewable resources to provide heat while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”