SaskPower is putting a major hydro project in the north on hold, citing a downturn in the region’s economy.
The Tazi Twé hydroelectric project near Black Lake is being deferred.
The utility’s 2017-18 annual report says SaskPower was projecting a growth of four to five per cent until last year, but a recent forecast predicts a one to two per cent growth. Current infrastructure can meet that demand.
With that project now on hold, SaskPower wrote down $30 million in planning and engineering work, but maintains that work could still be used if the project is again put in motion, should a more optimistic growth forecast materialize.
A $45 million concrete rehabilitation project is currently underway at the Island Falls Hydroelectric Station. That project involves the main dam, powerhouse and “A” dam, with completion expected by 2021.
SaskPower says it is still committed to implementing solar and flare gas power generation, recently signing an agreement with First Nations Power Authority and the Flying Dust First Nation.
(PHOTO: SaskPower CEO Mike Marsh, Environment Minister Dustin Duncan and the CFO of SaskPower Troy King address reporters on SaskPower’s annual report. Photo by Dan Jones.)