Saskatchewan will keep all coal plants running beyond 2030, opposing federal clean energy rules and risking legal conflict with Ottawa.
Sask. Extends Coal Plant Lifespans Without Public Notice
Regina, Saskatchewan – June 19, 2025 — The Saskatchewan government has quietly decided to extend the life of all its coal-fired power plants, directly opposing federal clean electricity regulations set to phase out coal power across Canada by 2030.
Decision Shared Internally, Not Publicly
The move was disclosed not through a public statement but in a letter from Crown Investments Corporation Minister Jeremy Harrison sent to SaskPower employees on Wednesday. In it, Harrison confirmed the province will keep operating coal plants as it prepares to adopt nuclear power for future energy needs.
Clean Grid Goal Remains — But Timeline Shifts
Harrison emphasized that Saskatchewan still supports a net-zero power grid by 2050. However, he asserted that coal will remain essential in the interim, arguing the province must “chart its own path” while developing long-term nuclear infrastructure to meet base-load demands.
Federal Rules Rejected in Letter
The letter takes direct aim at Ottawa’s environmental authority. Harrison wrote, “We have been clear that we do not recognize the legitimacy of the federal Clean Electricity Regulations.” These rules require all coal-fired power stations to close by their 50th year or by 2030 — whichever comes first — to reduce carbon emissions under Canada’s climate commitments.
Expert Criticizes the Policy Shift
Dr. Brett Dolter, an economist at the University of Regina who studies energy policy, described the decision as “incredibly disappointing.” He said it undermines more than a decade of planning and compliance and opens the door to lengthy legal battles between Saskatchewan and the federal government.
“This is like Blockbuster investing in VHS stores while everyone else is streaming,” Dolter noted, calling it a costly setback to innovation in clean energy.
Coal Infrastructure Upgrades Already Planned
Harrison confirmed that work will begin this year to restore Boundary Dam Unit 4. He also committed to extending operations at Poplar River, Shand, and other units in Estevan and Coronach in the years ahead. However, no budget details were shared. The province said it is not releasing cost estimates at this time.
Past Transition Funds Now in Question
Previously, Saskatchewan had aligned with federal goals. Since 2016, the federal government mandated coal phase-outs, and Saskatchewan even allocated millions in transition funding: $8 million for Estevan, $2 million for Coronach in 2020, and another $550,000 in 2023. The current decision effectively reverses that course.
Ottawa’s Response Pending
As of Thursday morning, Environment and Climate Change Canada has not commented on the announcement. However, a legal challenge or constitutional dispute is likely, as Ottawa may invoke federal jurisdiction over environmental policy.
Tensions Mount Over Provincial Energy Autonomy
The move underscores growing friction between provinces and the federal government on climate regulations. While Saskatchewan insists it is acting in the province’s long-term interest, critics say the plan delays necessary clean energy investments and introduces risk at a crucial time for Canada’s energy future.
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