Electric Vehicles in Yukon: Obstacles Hinder Provision of Infrastructure and Use

As part of an update its 20-Year resource plan, Yukon Energy commissioned a study looking at how many electric vehicles (EVs) may be expected in Yukon over the next two decades. Yukon Energy stands to play a significant role in the transition towards higher rates of plug-in electric vehicle adoption and the deployment of charging infrastructure.

The purpose of the study was to determine the

• extent to which actively engaging in PEV and charging station deployment would be a wise investment in the Yukon

• potential long-term associated impacts or opportunities for electrical sales and peak and base loads

Key findings are that

• plug-in electric vehicles have potential to dramatically reduce petroleum consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and increase energy independence through the use of locally produced energy. However a few challenges at the moment make it difficult for Yukon to widely adopt EV technology

• manufacturers are focussing on electric cars and not on electric trucks. In Yukon, 62% of the vehicles are trucks, and only 30% are cars

• battery technology has limitations in terms of performing well in cold climates. Batteries typically perform less than half as well as those used in temperate climates

• Yukoners tend to drive long distances, and again, there are currently technological limitations in this regard. However, electric vehicles — particularly plug-in hybrid electric vehicles — are still a viable transportation option for the average Yukon commute to and from work

Taking all these things into account, it does not appear at this time that there will be a high percentage of Yukoners purchasing EVs over the next 20 years, the report says.

Nevertheless, says the report, Yukon Energy has an opportunity to establish a leadership position in the market with only minor investment. More specifically, targeted outreach and education to consumers in the near term will be critical as interest for electric vehicles increases over the next several years. Furthermore, strategic partnerships and engagement with other stakeholders, including ATCO, automobile manufacturers, and local automobile dealerships, can help establish a leadership position in the market. Low-investment engagement such as keeping updated on market developments and consumer interest over the next several years could have significant implications in the mid- to long-term future for resource planning.

Given that technology can change rapidly, says Yukon Energy, they will be closely watching the EV market for new developments. 

Read the report: http://yukonenergy.ca/media/site_documents/Yukon_EV_Investigation_Report.pdf.