economics of rural electrification had been a stumbling block in Saskatchewan since the first power systems were installed. With a customer density of about one farm customer per mile (1.6 kilometres), the costs associated with conventional techniques were daunting. After much research, SaskPower adopted a single-wire, ground return distribution system that enabled the corporation to cost-effectively deliver power to farmyards and communities throughout rural Saskatchewan.

set a modest goal of 1,200 rural hook-ups for 1949. As the corporation gathered experience the annual goals increased, to a target of 3,500 farms in 1951. The rural electrification program peaked in 1956 with 7,800 farms being connected to the grid. By 1966 SaskPower had provided power to a total of 66,000 Saskatchewan farms. In addition, hundreds of schools, churches and community halls received electrical service during this period.