Saskatchewan stands at a pivotal moment in its energy future. As we head to the polls and the province invests in new energy infrastructure, our choices today will shape our economy, our environment, and the quality of life for generations to come. When you select your candidate, let’s not forget that renewable energy offers a more affordable, sustainable, and equitable solution, particularly for middle- and lower-income households.
- Lower Long-Term Costs for Everyone
One of the most compelling reasons to invest in renewable energy is its affordability in the long run. Unlike coal and gas, which rely on fuel markets, wind and solar power generate electricity without expensive and fluctuating fuel inputs. The 2023-24 fiscal year saw a reduction in fuel costs primarily due to decreased natural gas prices, but SaskPower still spent $366 million on natural gas and $296 million on coal. These costs directly contribute to electricity prices. Renewables provide price stability that protects consumers from sudden spikes in utility bills. Research has shown that although renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar farms or wind turbines, has higher upfront costs, its long-term operational costs are significantly lower. With zero fuel expenses and minimal maintenance costs, renewables can lead to lower energy prices overall.
In the context of Saskatchewan, where energy costs are a concern for many households, particularly those in the middle- and lower-income brackets, this price stability would be a game-changer. Lower and more predictable electricity bills mean that families can better manage their finances without worrying about rising energy costs caused by fuel prices.
- Job Creation and Economic Opportunities
The renewable energy sector has proven to be a robust job creator. Investing in renewable infrastructure such as wind and solar farms generates employment not only during the construction phase but also through ongoing maintenance and operation. A shift toward renewables in Saskatchewan would lead to the creation of local jobs, particularly in rural areas where renewable projects are often based.
For middle- and lower-income families, these jobs offer new opportunities for employment in a growing industry. Additionally, renewable energy jobs tend to be more labor-intensive than fossil fuel plants, offering accessible employment across a variety of skill levels. Job creation in renewables is crucial for economic diversification, helping to reduce income inequality and lift many families out of economic hardship.
- Reduced Environmental and Health Costs
The environmental benefits of renewable energy are clear—wind, solar, and other renewable sources produce little to no emissions. This translates into cleaner air and water, which is particularly important for the health and well-being of Saskatchewan’s communities. Coal and gas plants release pollutants that contribute to respiratory diseases and other health problems.
Switching to renewables can improve public health by reducing the rates of pollution-related illnesses. This reduces healthcare costs for individuals and the government, creating a healthier population and lowering the economic burden on lower-income households. For instance, studies have shown that pollution from fossil fuels leads to significant healthcare costs, which are indirectly passed on to all citizens in the form of taxes or increased insurance premiums.
- Energy Security and Independence
Building renewable energy infrastructure locally reduces Saskatchewan’s reliance on imported fuels like natural gas and coal, both of which are subject to global market fluctuations. This energy independence provides greater security for all citizens.
For lower-income households, which are often the most vulnerable to economic downturns, this stability can provide a much-needed safety net. Renewable energy offers a local, stable source of power that isn’t subject to the uncertainties of the energy market. This means that families can count on affordable and reliable energy, no matter what happens elsewhere in the world.
- Equitable Distribution of Benefits
Renewable energy projects, such as community-owned solar installations or small-scale wind farms, offer the potential for direct economic benefits to communities. In some cases, residents can invest in local renewable projects, receiving dividends or reductions in their energy bills as a result. This kind of community investment is a powerful way to ensure that the financial benefits of renewable energy are shared among all citizens, rather than concentrated in the hands of a few large corporations.
Moreover, renewables can be deployed in rural or under-served areas that might not have had access to reliable energy infrastructure in the past. This can reduce the energy burden on these communities and provide cleaner, more affordable energy options to populations that traditionally spend a higher percentage of their income on electricity.
Your Vote For A Better Future for Saskatchewan
By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, Saskatchewan can create a more affordable, sustainable, and equitable future for all its citizens. Lower energy costs, new job opportunities, improved public health, and energy security are just a few of the many benefits that renewables can offer, particularly to middle- and lower-income households. In a time when climate change and economic inequality are pressing concerns, renewable energy is the key to building a brighter, fairer future for Saskatchewan. Remember this as you head to the polls!
For related information:
- Ian Partridge, Cost comparisons for wind and thermal power generation, Energy Policy, Volume 112, 2018, Pages 272-279 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2017.10.006.
- Rabl, A. (2001). The importance of external costs for the competitiveness of renewable energies. International Journal of Global Energy Issues, 15, 49-58. https://doi.org/10.1504/IJGEI.2001.000887.
- For SaskPower’s Annual report see https://www.saskpower.com/about-us/our-company/current-reports