There are two primary reasons SaskPower is facing a requirement for new electricity generation sources: Load growth and aging infrastructure.
Reliable, sustainable and affordable energy
SaskPower is committed to supplying uninterrupted electricity to the province of Saskatchewan, today and in the future. The future of electricity lies in renewable fuels and emissions-reduction technology. We recognize that renewable fuels need to be added to the power supply mix, and that non-renewable fuels need to have their greenhouse gas emissions reduced.
Saskatchewan is using more and more power every year
From 2000 to 2008, electrical demand increased steadily at about 1.3 per cent each year. From 2009 to 2019, electrical demand is expected to increase 2-4 per cent per year. In order to ensure reliable, sustainable and affordable energy, we must examine alternative power generation technologies and innovative conservation programs. This will allow us to keep pace with the province.
Existing power plants working at peak capacity
Many of the SaskPower power plants are beginning to show their age and have been working at peak capacity for many years. We must add energy to the power grid to ensure the needs of the province are met. We need to figure out the right mix of imported power from partners and power generated by renewable fuel sources.
SaskPower relies heavily on coal
Saskatchewan has a lot of coal, and coal is a reliable, affordable fuel. However, anticipated clean air legislation may reduce the viability of traditional coal-fired power plants. This is why SaskPower has taken a leadership position with respect to Carbon Capture technology, which would reduce the carbon emissions of coal-fired power plants considerably and put them within the limits of anticipated clean air legislation.
Learn more about current power projects.
