Boundary Dam Power Station (BDPS) is our largest coal generation facility. It’s located south of Estevan and opened in 1959.
BDPS originally had 6 coal-fire units. The newest and largest is Unit 6 (BD6), which can generate 284 megawatts (MW) of power. On average, 1 MW is enough power for about 1,000 Saskatchewan homes. Units BD1 and BD2 were retired from service in 2013 and 2014. That leaves the 4 remaining units, which can be operated past 2030.
Our Progress So Far
BD4
In May 2026, BD4 was successfully brought back into service after some pieces of critical equipment were refurbished. It’ll be able to run safely while we prioritize life extension of other units.
BD5
The last major overhaul of BD5 took place in 2019. At that time, only essential work was done to keep the unit running until its planned retirement in 2027. We’re currently working on engineering and procurement to support refurbishment of BD5.
BD6
BD6 was given its first life extension in 2003. Since then, it’s operated for over 167,000 hours and is due for a major overhaul of its turbine generator in 2030. We’re getting ready for this work by ordering important pieces of equipment that takes time to manufacture and deliver.
BD3
A refurbishment plan for this unit hasn’t been completed yet. Major power island systems and equipment were replaced on BD3 in 2013 and 2014 as a part of the BD3 Carbon Capture Project. Typical power plant life extensions occur after 25 years of operation. The assessment and life extension of Boundary Dam Unit 3 will be coordinated with carbon capture investment.
BD0
We also need to complete life extension work on common systems, known as BD0. These systems include the ash lagoon, coal handing equipment, and water treatment plant. They support the day-to-day operation of all units at the BDPS. Planning work is already underway to expand the ash lagoon. Other BD0 work will occur from 2027-30.
