Whitehorse Diesel-LNG Conversion

Exterior photo of completed structureAerial view of station mid-constructionFuel storageExterior station infrastructureConstruction of foundationExterior infrastructureIndividual working outside at the generating stationInterior of stationExterior photo of completed structureExterior photo of completed structure

While the Yukon draws the bulk of its energy from renewable hydroelectric and wind power, the territory’s electrical grid required a backup source of power to meet consumer needs. Yukon Energy retained KGS to modernize the existing diesel system to meet peak demand and maintain territory-wide service for residents.

A new liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled backup power generating station and associated infrastructure was constructed adjacent to Yukon Energy’s existing primary power generating station in Whitehorse, Yukon. Commissioned in 2015, the project site includes two modular LNG fueled reciprocating generators intended to replace Yukon Energy’s aging diesel generating equipment and to provide flexible and reliable backup power to supplement Yukon’s other power sources.

Expertise

Industrial

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Project Highlights

  • An LNG backup station was built with two modular reciprocating generators
  • First use of LNG in Yukon
  • Lower greenhouse gas emissions than the previous diesel system, long‑term ratepayer savings and improved reliability and peak support

Caribou Falls Block Dam 2 Reconstruction

Aerial view of fill placement workView of site after slumpSub grade aerial viewFill placement work being done at nightThe site's east abutment aerial viewDam site wallAerial view of the clay capView of the finished dam

Block Dam 2 is one of four embankment dams that contain the Caribou Falls Generating Station reservoir in northwestern Ontario. After 60 years of operation, the dam sustained unexpected slope movements. With KGS Group retained to carryout detailed design and construction supervision, Ontario Power Generation awarded the construction contract to Peter Kiewit Sons Ltd. Together, OPG, KGS and Kiewit reconstructed the dam through most of 2019 and finalized the work in late 2020.

The team applied advanced investigation and laboratory testing techniques, innovative materials, sound engineering judgement and progressive construction methodologies to design and build a new zoned rockfill dam with a cement-bentonite wall (CB wall) core. The design integrated constructability, risk mitigation and schedule saving strategies at the planning level.

Despite unforeseen challenges, all parties persevered using a “One Team” approach. As a result, the project was successfully completed, restoring the dam to modern standards and the station’s generating capacity while preserving the natural surroundings in this wild and beautiful project setting.

Expertise

Hydropower and Dams

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Project Highlights

  • Detailed design, materials and lab testing, constructability planning, risk management assessments and construction supervision
  • Full reconstruction of a 60-year-old structure
  • New rockfill dam with cement‑bentonite cutoff wall core
  • Progressive construction methodologies and schedule‑saving strategies embedded at planning
  • Restored generating capacity and dam service, compliance with modern standards and improved stability and performance