Canada funds first private sale solar energy project in SK
Natural Resources Canada has allocated over CAD $33 million to support the construction of a new Indigenous-owned solar power project in Saskatchewan.
The Wicehtowak Solar Project, a 32MW facility employing bi-facial solar panels, is being developed by the George Gordon First Nation, near Regina, through Wicehtowak Solar.
The solar farm will supply electricity to the provincial grid, and in what will be a first for Saskatchewan, the power generated will be sold on to an industrial client, K+S Potash Canada, indirectly via SaskPower's network under a 30-year power purchase agreement.
The agreement was made possible through Wicehtowak Solar's Exclusive Franchise Rights Waiver, executed with SaskPower in April 2023, which allows direct power sales to an identified industrial customer.
This arrangement is designed to support the long-term electricity requirements of the K+S Potash Canada mine, a significant contributor to Canada's export market and national food security. According to the Government of Canada, the pilot project is expected to act as a model for future electricity sale arrangements between private developers and industrial operations in Saskatchewan.
Funded by government support
The initiative is backed by the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs), a federal scheme aimed at advancing grid modernisation, energy storage, and low-emission energy supply across Canada.
In total, the Government of Canada has made a commitment of CAD $4.5 billion through the SREPs program to fund sustainable grid initiatives. The Wicehtowak Solar Project has also received an additional CAD $432,400 through Indigenous Services Canada's Strategic Partnerships Initiative and Community Opportunity Readiness Program.
Advocates state that the project will aid in creating employment opportunities, growing revenue streams, and boosting long-term economic prospects and capacity development for the George Gordon First Nation.
"Wicehtowak Solar represents what's possible when Indigenous leadership and industrial innovation come together. This project will not only produce clean power - it will generate opportunity and lasting value for George Gordon First Nation and beyond," said Don Ross, CEO of George Gordon Developments Ltd.
These benefits form part of a wider government drive to increase Indigenous participation and leadership in Canada's clean energy transition.
"By working hand in hand with Indigenous communities and the energy sector, we are delivering innovative projects that get more energy to market, reduce costs to Canadians and businesses and enable Indigenous-led economic opportunities that bring prosperity to our country," said Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.
Industry and employment
The Wicehtowak Solar Project's power supply deal with K+S Potash Canada is expected to enhance the sustainability of mining operations through a reliable, cleaner electricity source. Project proponents highlight the dual economic benefits for the George Gordon First Nation, including expanding opportunities within the renewable energy supply chain and facilitating greater participation in the regional job market.
