In a strategic move to enhance Canada’s position in the global clean energy market, the federal government has announced up to $60 million in funding for two critical mineral infrastructure projects in British Columbia and the Yukon. These investments aim to advance the country’s mineral production capabilities, which are essential for the transition to a low-carbon economy.
The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, alongside B.C.’s Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation Josie Osborne, and Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai, revealed the funding under the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF). These projects focus on expanding access to rich mineral resources in the regions and linking them to broader markets through key infrastructure developments.
The first project, led by Galore Creek Mining Corporation, will receive up to $20 million to construct a 43-kilometre access road to its copper mine in Tahltan Territory, B.C. This mine holds over 12 billion pounds of copper, a critical material for clean energy technologies like solar panels and electric vehicles.
The second initiative involves a $40 million investment for a 765-kilometre transmission line connecting the Yukon’s electrical grid to British Columbia. This will support critical mineral mining in the Cassiar and Tanana regions, including cobalt, nickel, and tungsten, essential for renewable energy production.
These investments are pivotal in establishing Canada as a leader in critical mineral production, ensuring sustainable growth and new economic opportunities across the country.