Boost for Critical Minerals: Canada Commits $42M to Yukon and BC
Canada commits C$60 million to mining infrastructure in Yukon and BC's Golden Triangle, unlocking critical minerals for the global energy transition.

Canada is making a significant push to strengthen its role as a global leader in the supply of critical minerals, crucial for the ongoing energy transition. In a move aimed at developing infrastructure to support mining projects, the Canadian government announced a C$60 million ($42 million USD) investment in two key regions: the Yukon Territory and British Columbia’s Golden Triangle. The funding was revealed by Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, alongside BC’s Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation Josie Osborne, and Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai.
A Breakdown of the $42 Million Investment
The C$60 million investment will be divided between two major projects:
- Galore Creek Access Road in BC: C$20 million will be used to construct a 43-km road providing access to the proposed Galore Creek copper mine in northern British Columbia.
- Yukon’s Transmission Line Project: The Yukon government will receive C$40 million to explore the development of a 765-km high-voltage transmission line, linking the Yukon grid to British Columbia's North American electrical grid.
These investments are part of Canada’s broader strategy to address infrastructure gaps in northern regions and enable the sustainable production of critical minerals.
Galore Creek: A Major Copper Resource
The Galore Creek copper mine, located in northern British Columbia's Tahltan Territory, is an essential part of Canada’s critical minerals strategy. The copper deposits at Galore Creek are estimated at over 12 billion pounds, making it one of the largest untapped copper reserves in the world. The construction of a 43-km access road will be a vital step toward developing this mine, which is being spearheaded by a joint venture between Newmont and Teck Resources.
Once operational, Galore Creek could significantly boost Canada’s copper output, positioning the country as a key player in global copper supply chains. Copper is critical for a range of industries, including renewable energy and electric vehicle (EV) production.
Yukon’s Energy Future: A 765-km Transmission Line
The Yukon government will use its C$40 million funding for pre-feasibility studies to advance the development of a high-voltage transmission line. This 765-km network would connect the Yukon grid to British Columbia, ensuring reliable energy supply for future mining operations in the region. By linking Yukon’s electrical grid to the broader North American network, the project would provide the necessary infrastructure for mining operations to flourish.
This transmission line is particularly crucial for the extraction of critical minerals such as cobalt, molybdenum, nickel, and platinum group metals, all of which are abundant in Yukon. The increased power capacity will not only benefit the mining sector but also the local communities by enhancing energy reliability.
The Role of the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF)
Both projects fall under the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF), a flagship initiative within Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy. The CMIF aims to address the infrastructure challenges that have historically hindered mineral extraction in remote areas. By funding the necessary infrastructure for mining operations, the CMIF is playing a pivotal role in Canada’s efforts to become a leading supplier of critical minerals.
Strategic Importance of the Golden Triangle
British Columbia’s Golden Triangle is one of the richest mining regions in the world, containing about 75% of Canada’s known copper reserves. The region is also rich in gold and silver, making it a hub for critical mineral extraction. The Galore Creek project, along with other mining operations in the Golden Triangle, is expected to drive significant economic growth in northern British Columbia.
Improving infrastructure in this region, such as the newly funded access road, will allow for quicker development of mines and more efficient transportation of minerals to global markets.
Impact on Local Communities
The investments in infrastructure will bring more than just economic benefits to the mining sector; they will also improve access and opportunities for local communities. For Indigenous and remote populations in northern BC and Yukon, these projects represent a chance for better connectivity, job creation, and economic inclusion. Infrastructure improvements such as roads and power lines are essential for community development and safety.
Canada’s Global Role in Critical Minerals Supply
As the world transitions to renewable energy and electric vehicles, the demand for critical minerals like copper, nickel, and cobalt is surging. These materials are vital for producing batteries, wind turbines, and solar panels. Canada’s abundant reserves of these minerals, coupled with strategic infrastructure investments, position the country to become a major player in the global supply chain for critical minerals. With initiatives like the Galore Creek project and Yukon’s transmission line, Canada is poised to meet the growing demand for these materials while ensuring that the extraction process remains sustainable and community-oriented.
Conclusion: Canada’s Path to Becoming a Critical Minerals Powerhouse
Canada’s C$60 million investment in mining infrastructure in Yukon and British Columbia is a major step toward solidifying its role in the global critical minerals market. By focusing on infrastructure development, Canada is ensuring the efficient and sustainable extraction of critical minerals, which are essential for the energy transition. This funding will not only drive economic growth in northern regions but also position Canada as a key player in the future of renewable energy and advanced technology.
