We’re upgrading power poles in a number of communities across Saskatchewan in support of SaskTel’s Rural Fibre Initiative. This will help bring SaskTel’s infiNETTM fibre optic internet service to more rural residents and businesses.
Why We’re Doing It
In areas with existing overhead power lines, sharing our power poles is the most efficient and cost-effective way to increase access to fibre optic internet services in these communities. This eliminates the need for SaskTel to install and maintain their own poles.
We’re upgrading power poles so they can structurally support the new fibre cable SaskTel will add, while continuing to provide reliable power.
Our Progress So Far
In 2023-24, we’re planning to upgrade about 1,200 poles in more than 50 communities across the province.
Minimizing the Impact to You
We’ll stay within the right-of-way as much as we can. But sometimes our crews may need access to your property to perform the work. If this happens, we’ll make sure we’re respectful of our surroundings.
You may also notice disruptions like:
- construction noise
- potential road restrictions
- planned power outages
Disruptions will be kept to a minimum and communicated in advance.
Respecting the Local Environment
We recognize that what we do today impacts our future. For every power project we do, we follow best-practice standards. This helps us protect the environment no matter which stage the project is in. And as with any project, we work hard to reduce our impact and protect the environment.
Benefits to Local Communities
The Rural Fibre Initative will bring SaskTel’s infiNETTM fibre optic internet service to more than 110,000 residents and businesses in over 130 rural communities by the end of March 2025. The plan is for all of these communities to be fibre-ready by the end of March 2025.
