The competitive process for the next 200 megawatts (MW) of utility-scale wind capacity is moving forward, with the Request for Proposal (RFP) phase of the competition. Eight of the 23 independent power producers who entered the Request for Qualification (RFQ) phase have qualified to move on to the RFP phase and have been invited to submit proposals for the competition.

"Wind power will play a key role in Saskatchewan's electricity future," said Guy Bruce, SaskPower Vice-President of Special Projects. "As of today, wind makes up a total of five per cent of our available generating capacity. We plan to increase this to 30 per cent by 2030 and this project is one way we will reach our goal."

SaskPower plans to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 40 per cent (from 2005 levels) by 2030. It will significantly increase the amount of renewable electricity in Saskatchewan's generation mix from 25 per cent today to as much as 50 per cent by 2030.

The competition is being conducted through a two-stage process. In February 2017, SaskPower issued an RFQ to identify independent power producers. Qualified proponents will have until May 25, 2018 to submit their proposals, including choosing their own sites to put forward in the competition. All proposals will be evaluated equally through an open, fair and transparent process. The successful proponent will be announced in fall 2018, with the project expected to be in-service in early 2021.

Wind is an intermittent generation source that requires a back-up generation source, like natural gas, when the wind isn't blowing. This project will generate enough electricity to power approximately 80,000 homes.

SaskPower is facing some unprecedented challenges as we plan for the future, including: a growing demand for power, the transition to cleaner generation options, and the need to upgrade and modernize our aging power grid. We must consider all available options in order to have the right mix to ensure reliable, cost-effective and sustainable power.

For more information on SaskPower's plan for renewables, see our Renewables Roadmap. #PowerToGrow

At a glance...

• Competitive process for 200 MW wind project now in the RFP stage.
• This project will contribute to SaskPower's long-term plan to double the percentage of renewable generating capacity in Saskatchewan.
• 200 MW of wind is enough to power approximately 80,000 homes.