First Nations break ground on Saskatchewan’s largest wind farm

A new, 28 wind turbine, 210-megawatt wind farm is now under construction near Assiniboia.

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) reached a financial close with Potential Renewables Inc and M-Squared Renewables on a $128 million project loan and $36.4 million Indigenous equity loan toward the Rose Valley Wind Project.

The wind farm will be 51 percent owned by M-Squared Renewables, an Indigenous development corporation owned by the nine First Nations of the Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC) and Mistawasis Nêhiyawak First Nation.

M-Squared Renewables will develop, own, and operate the wind project with Potentia Renewables Inc through a subsidiary, Rose Valley Wind LP.

“This project will provide clean, renewable power while providing long-term economic benefits for the nine First Nations of MLTC,” said MLTC Tribal Chief Jeremy Norman in a statement.

“Through partnerships, we are helping build Saskatchewan’s energy future while advancing Indigenous ownership, economic reconciliation, and self determination,” he said.

Located at the rural municipality of Excel No. 71, roughly 45 kilometres from Assiniboia and 150 kilometres south of Regina, the development will have up to a 210 megawatt power purchase agreement with SaskPower for the next 30 years, and also includes new and upgraded access roads, underground cabling, a new substation, and supporting infrastructure.

“Closing the financing of the Rose Valley Wind project is an important milestone for Potentia, and reflect the continued momentum of renewable energy development in Saskatchewan,” said Ben Greenhouse, CEO of Potentia Renewables.

“This project brings together experienced financial partners and strong collaboration to deliver reliable, low-cost power while supporting long-term economic benefits for local communities.”

The project will not only be the largest wind farm in Saskatchewan, but the first built on Hutterite colony land. The Rose Valley Wind Project is part of the 700 megawatt new renewable generation being built across Saskatchewan, officials said.

Once operational, the project is expected to reduce energy emissions by approximately 297,807 tonnes annually, contributing to Saskatchewan’s commitment to reach net-zero by 2050.

“SaskPower is using all tools at our disposal to ensure reliable and affordable power for our customers, while also supporting our growing economy and communities,” said Rupen Pandya, President and CEO of SaskPower. “Rose Valley will strengthen our diverse grid by supplying low-cost electricity for decades to come.”

Renewables now account for about one-third of SaskPower’s generating capacity, said officials.

The project is the sixth Indigenous equity loan from CIB, which has involved more than 34 projects benefiting Indigenous communities, and a total of approximately $126 million in investments from CIB.

Mistawasis Nêhiyawak First Nation Chief Daryl Watson called the collaboration between SaskPower, Potentia, and MLTC a ‘positive relationship’.

“This project demonstrates how continued teamwork can help advance truth and Reconciliation,” he said.

Construction timelines on the Rose Valley Wind Project have not been announced. It is expected to be operational by 2027.