Saskatchewan Rejects Federal Clean Electricity Rules

The Saskatchewan government has announced it will not comply with upcoming federal clean electricity regulations, citing an Economic Impact Assessment Tribunal’s findings that the regulations would hinder job growth and cost billions. The regulations aim to transition to a net-zero electricity grid while maintaining affordability and reliability. However, the tribunal’s report suggests the regulations would negatively impact Saskatchewan’s economic growth, costing $7.1 billion in GDP and 4,200 jobs by 2035 due to increased electricity costs.
Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault’s office disputed these conclusions, accusing the provincial tribunal of having an ideological agenda. The federal government argues that transitioning to a cleaner grid will create jobs and lower long-term electricity costs, pointing to third-party studies and a $40 billion commitment to support clean electricity. The tribunal’s report is based on an outdated draft of the regulations, failing to consider recent changes and existing federal investments in Saskatchewan’s energy infrastructure. The provincial government’s stance sets the stage for potential legal and political conflicts over environmental policy.