By Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SaskToday.ca
SaskPower is investing approximately $270 million to strengthen its Northern Transmission System, a move aimed at supporting mining development and improving power reliability across northern Saskatchewan.
The project aligns with the province’s long-term energy and economic priorities, including the Saskatchewan First Energy Security Strategy and its transmission-focused addendum, “Supply Plan and Strengthening Saskatchewan’s Grid: Transmission to Power Communities and Growth.”
“Transmission is the backbone of Saskatchewan’s power system and an important part of the provincial energy security strategy,” said Joel Cherry, SaskPower media relations told SaskToday.
Cherry said the upgrades are designed to support new and expanded mining operations in Saskatchewan’s far north, particularly in regions stretching from Creighton to the Athabasca Basin, an area rich in uranium and rare-earth mineral deposits.
The investment will reinforce the northern electrical grid, ensuring it can meet the demands of future industrial development while maintaining reliable service for existing customers.
A key component of the project includes adding a 138-kilovolt subphase switch and sectionalization equipment — infrastructure that allows operators to isolate sections of the grid during maintenance or outages SaskPower said.
Cherry said in practical terms, this means fewer widespread outages and improved reliability, as disruptions can be contained without affecting the entire system.
“These reinforcements will increase electrical supply and operational flexibility,” Cherry said.
While specific job numbers are not yet available, SaskPower says workforce needs will vary throughout the project depending on contractors and construction phases.
The Crown corporation also emphasized its commitment to including Indigenous businesses in procurement and creating opportunities for local and northern communities to participate in the project.
Cherry said beyond immediate employment, the upgrades are expected to help unlock long-term economic growth, enabling development of mining projects that could generate jobs and investment across the region.
Construction is already underway in some areas, with other components still in the planning stage. The project is expected to be completed by 2029.
SaskPower is also exploring additional transmission projects to further support the province’s energy strategy, including:
Pelican Narrows to McIlvenna Bay transmission line
North-South transmission systems interconnection
Northwest transmission system expansion