Yukon pools ready to plug in to solar power
Solar panels being installed in 5 community pools this summer to reduce heating costs
A new solar heating system for the community pool in Beaver Creek, Yukon, is expected to dramatically cut operating costs by saving money currently spent on heating fuel.
"With saving fuel we save a lot of money and it's just better for the environment," said lifeguard Dana Klassen.
Klassen said the pool is usually kept at a temperature between 20 and 30 C.
Carcross, Carmacks, Pelly Crossing, and Ross River are all getting new solar panels for their pools this summer. Similar ones have been installed in Dawson City and Mayo for some time.
The Yukon government says the cost of the project for the five pools is $350,000, and the money is coming from Federal Gas Tax funds.
Government spokesperson Diana Dryburgh says the panels will produce up to 70 per cent of heating requirements for the pools and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
