A recent leak from SaskPower has unveiled significant concerns regarding the provincial government’s commitment to coal. The document reveals that doubling down on coal presents an “extreme” risk to Saskatchewan’s long-term energy plan. This plan, valued at $26 billion, aims to extend the life and refurbish coal-fired power plants, raising alarms among opposition parties.
Key Findings from the Leaked Document
The controversial report was presented to SaskPower’s audit and finance committee on November 5, 2025, and later to its board on November 20. It outlines how the government-directed plan would extend coal-fired generation for up to 25 years.
Projected Rate Increases
According to the document, the finance department projected that electrical costs could rise significantly:
- 20% higher by 2030
- 95% higher by 2040
These figures are based on assumptions that the federal industrial carbon tax would not apply. However, the high-emitting coal units will still carry substantial carbon tax obligations, amplifying financial concerns.
Regulatory Risks
Critics have raised alarms regarding potential violations of the federal Clean Electricity Regulations. The expiry of an equivalency agreement in 2026 could lead to immediate operational restrictions for certain facilities. This raises questions about the sustainability of the current energy strategy.
Political Response
The NDP Opposition, represented by Aleana Young, has amplified calls for transparency and accountability. Young described the situation as fraught with risk, indicating no low-risk option exists among the outlined concerns, including reliability and financial implications. She stated, “This is going to have massive impacts in every single corner of the province.”
Reputation and Financial Stability at Stake
The leaked document showcases the “residual risk profile” as extreme, emphasizing concerns over reliability due to previous underinvestment in coal facilities. Furthermore, it points to the potential cancellation of renewable projects due to the government’s direction towards coal, which could diminish Saskatchewan’s ability to meet future energy needs sustainably.
Conclusion
The leaked documents suggest that the $26 billion coal plan could have far-reaching consequences for Saskatchewan’s energy landscape, both financially and environmentally. Opposition leaders are pressing for immediate scrutiny and reevaluation of this approach, urging the government to prioritize sustainable energy solutions.
