The Yukon is becoming a focal point in Canada’s push to develop critical minerals, with new investments and exploration programs aimed at supporting the clean energy transition.
Critical Minerals in the Yukon
The Yukon Geological Survey has identified significant potential for minerals such as cobalt, lithium, rare earth elements, copper, and nickel, all of which are vital for renewable energy technologies and advanced manufacturing.
These resources are essential for electric vehicle batteries, wind turbines, solar panels, and semiconductors, making them central to Canada’s net-zero ambitions.
Government and Industry Support
In September 2024, the federal government announced major funding to unlock more critical mineral development in the Yukon, emphasizing infrastructure and exploration to strengthen Canada’s role in global supply chains.
The Government of Yukon also supports early-stage exploration through its Mineral Exploration Program, which provided $1.4 million in 2024–25 to 42 projects across the territory.
The 2025 federal budget introduced a $2-billion critical mineral sovereign fund, welcomed by the Yukon Chamber of Mines as a serious investment in the sector.
Economic and Strategic Importance
Critical minerals are seen as a “generational opportunity” for Canada, with the Yukon positioned to benefit from both domestic and international demand.
Development of these resources is expected to create jobs, attract investment, and diversify the northern economy, while also contributing to Canada’s clean energy transition.
The Yukon’s geographic location offers access to global markets, making it a strategic hub for future mineral supply chains.
Outlook
The Yukon’s critical mineral sector is still developing, but with strong federal and territorial support, it is poised to grow rapidly. As demand for clean energy technologies accelerates worldwide, the territory could play a pivotal role in securing Canada’s position as a reliable supplier of the minerals that power the future.
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