Yukon pools ready to plug in to solar power

A new solar heating system for the community pool inBeaver Creek, Yukon,is expected to dramatically cut operating costs by saving moneycurrently spent on heatingfuel.

"With saving fuel we save a lot of money and it's just better for the environment,"saidlifeguard DanaKlassen.

Klassensaid the pool is usuallykept at a temperature between20 and30 C.

Carcross,Carmacks,PellyCrossing, 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 Yukongovernment says the cost of the project for the five pools is $350,000, and the money is comingfromFederal Gas Tax funds.

Government spokesperson DianaDryburghsays the panels will produce up to 70 per cent of heating requirements for the pools and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.