Federal measures helping build Saskatchewan’s 21st century electricity grid
Williston Basin Petroleum Conference returns to the fundamentals
SRC’s history of providing unique support for unique industry clients
Iyuhána Solar LP to build the province’s largest-ever solar facility near Estevan
6 Message from Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe
8 Powering Canada’s future: Federal measures helping build Saskatchewan’s 21st century electricity grid
14 Williston Basin Petroleum Conference 2025: Returning to the fundamentals of geology, exploration, and drilling to power Saskatchewan and beyond
18 Adding value to the process: SRC’s history of providing unique support for unique industry clients
22 PTRC’s new energy innovation hub advanced sustainable energy research
24 Saskatchewan Research Council to advance bastnaesite processing and study of critical minerals with support from the Government of Canada
26 Co-processing of renewables in hydrorprocessing units: Revamp considerations
34 Greenwood sustainable infrastructure and Ocean Man First Nation set to build SaskPower’s 100-megawatt solar facility near Estevan
38 Unlocking the Williston Basin’s success and asset intelligence
42 Weyburn: A powerhouse of energy innnovation
44 Great Plains Power Station now online
45 SaskPower establishes nuclear subsidiary called SaskNuclear
46 Index to advertisers
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On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I want to thank the thousands of energy companies, suppliers, and employees working in this vibrant and growing industry. Despite regulatory and market uncertainties at the federal and global levels, the province’s oil & gas sector continues to be a stable and reliable contributor to both the Saskatchewan and Canadian economies. For decades, Saskatchewan has benefited from the many rewards the oil & gas sector brings to the province, generating revenues that fund critical public infrastructure and services, such as new schools, highways, and healthcare facilities.
While Saskatchewan producers continue to face uncertainty created by ever-changing and multi-layered climate policies imposed by the federal government, they are still achieving strong production results. In 2023, oil companies in our province produced 454,000 barrels of oil per day, and they are expected to maintain strong production levels in 2024.
Meanwhile, the Government of Saskatchewan has and will continue to be a steadfast partner for the sector. We have worked hard to create a stable and competitive investment climate. In fact, in 2023 the Fraser Institute named Saskatchewan the most attractive jurisdiction in Canada for energy investment.
We have supported the sector in its effort to adopt new and innovative technologies and production methods. The Government of Saskatchewan has introduced leading-edge, targeted incentive programs to help companies manage the risk of innovating and adding value to their operations here.
In 2024, we introduced the Multi-Lateral Well Program, offering additional volume-based incentives for eligible multi-lateral horizontal oil wells drilled from April 2024 to March 2028. This program creates a competitive royalty system for this new type of drilling, driving investment and incremental oil production, including from previously uneconomical reserves.
We also enhanced two incentive programs to provide producers with increased support for investments into
value-added processing capacity and innovation. In 2024, our government extended the Oil and Gas Processing Investment Incentive and the Saskatchewan Petroleum Innovation Incentive until 2029. We also expanded the funding available under these programs, adding millions of dollars to each funding pool.
As Saskatchewan is a landlocked province, our government recognizes and supports the need for critical infrastructure to move our valuable commodities to market. The Oil Infrastructure Investment Program supports investment in eligible pipeline projects, ensuring oil producers can get their product to market. The program was also expanded to include carbon dioxide pipelines, which provides critical support for the industry’s ongoing decarbonization efforts.
Saskatchewan’s oil & gas sector is also helping to meet global demand for new emerging resources. Thanks to decades of knowledge and skills, the province is seeing investment and growth in helium and lithium development. The province’s helium sector continues to see significant year-over-year production growth. Lithium is emerging as a commercially viable sector, as demonstrated by a Regina-based company which is preparing to start full-scale lithium production in 2025. Companies are also beginning to assess the potential for the production of naturally occurring hydrogen in the province.
The outlook for Saskatchewan’s oil & gas sector is bright. The industry is consistently innovating to increase production while at the same time reducing emissions. It continues to make vital contributions to our strong economy, supporting more than 26,000 direct and indirect jobs, which means a bright future for families and all those who call our great province home. This important sector can expect continued support from the Government of Saskatchewan in the years ahead.
Our History – Founded in 1953, Kelly Panteluk Construction Ltd. (KPCL) is a third-generation company with a long track record of safely constructing key infrastructure projects in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta. Our permanent office and maintenance facilities are headquartered in Estevan and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – locations that enable us to better serve our prairie province markets.
At KPCL, we pride ourselves in helping you solve complex construction problems, specializing in large technical projects that involve challenging soil conditions and intricate earth structures. Our modern fleet of more than 220 pieces of heavy construction equipment and our staff of up to 300 employees during peak construction help us to move as much as eight million cubic meters of construction material every year.
In the 21st century, a reliable and affordable clean electricity grid is the backbone of a strong economy. Today, more than 80 per cent of Canada’s electricity is generated from clean sources like hydropower, wind, solar, and nuclear – and it’s a big part of the reason why companies are choosing to invest in Canadian workers and business. In Saskatchewan, companies like Jansen, which mines potash, are cleaning their operations and meeting global potash demand. By taking action to expand clean power, new economic opportunities are being unlocked while workers and families can get ahead with lower energy bills. As we build more power to meet our growing energy needs, lower power rates are front and centre.
In December, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced a suite of over $265 million job-creating investments into SaskPower and Saskatchewan clean electricity projects to address our shared priorities and build a clean future.
“Canada works best when Canadians work together,” Minister Wilkinson noted. “As someone with deep roots in Saskatchewan, I know that these investments in Saskatchewan’s electricity grid will create jobs and ensure the province remains a destination of choice for investors looking to expand their operations. From Indigenous solar projects to small modular reactor permitting and transmission upgrades the federal
government will be a partner and staunch supporter to ensure that we build up and power a strong and reliable 21st century economy, without making compromises on affordability.”
The Government of Canada’s Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs) is delivering over $12 million in job-creating federal investments for local and Indigenousled renewable power projects, including:
• $2 million for the 100-megawatt Prairie Coast Solar Project in Lajord
• Over $1.8 million for the one-megawatt Kiyam Solar Project near Gladmar,
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partly owned by Mistawasis Nêhiyawak First Nation
• Over $1.8 million for the one-megawatt Iskotew Solar Project near Alsask, partly owned by Mistawasis Nêhiyawak First Nation. Over $1.3 million for the 500-kilowatt (AC) La Plonge Solar Project with English River First Nation
Two projects owned in part by White Bear First Nations are also receiving
funding: more than $2.7 million for the 1.4-megawatt Cosette Solar Project in Estevan, and nearly $2.7 million for the one-megawatt NM Solar Project in Lomond No. 37.
“White Bear First Nations is excited to announce a new solar energy project that aims to harness the power of the sun,” said Chief Jonathan Pasap. “This initiative represents a step toward our commitment to sustainability and the
well-being of our people. This project reflects our values of respecting the land and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. We believe that investing in renewable energy is vital for both our community’s health and the health of our planet. The project has been made possible through a partnership with Compass Energy and funding support from government grants. We look forward to participating in developing additional solar and other renewable projects in the Nations traditional territory.”
Once fully completed, these solar projects would provide electricity equivalent to powering nearly 20,000 homes every year – more than Saskatchewan’s third-largest city, Prince Albert. To date, this federal fund has delivered over $90 million in support for job-creating clean
power projects across Saskatchewan, primarily with Indigenous partners. These projects will enable local economic growth and deliver clean, affordable energy to communities while advancing economic reconciliation, and we will continue to work with the people of Saskatchewan to ensure future power demand is met with clean, affordable, and reliable energy.
The Government of Canada’s Future Electricity Fund is transferring over $256.7 million to SaskPower for a range of job-creating, clean power projects, which will grow and modernize the provincial energy grid while getting costs down for ratepayers and driving reliability. Through the fund, Indigenous clean energy projects will receive $42 million. This includes:
• Nearly $70 million for over 6,000 km of critical rural power line reliability upgrades, including replacement of aging installations and system upgrades.
• Over $55 million for a 60 megawatt/60megawatt hours battery storage system and associated technologies to help manage peak demand and integrate renewables.
• Nearly $80 million for a new substation and two 240-kilowatt transmission lines connecting the province to the Southwest Power Pool in the United States, facilitating 500 megawatts of additional transmission service.
• Over $9 million to support consumer and household energy efficiency programs, including SaskPower’s new Energy Efficiency Discount Program that helps pay for ENERGY STAR
appliances, home insulation, and other cost-saving measures for families.
• Over $20 million to help retrofit Northern First Nations’ homes and help new buildings achieve higher cost-saving energy efficiency performance standards.
• Over $5 million to develop power generation in remote and northern communities, while replacing aging distribution infrastructure.
• Nearly $14 million to add 400 megawatts of wind power and 300 megawatts of solar generation in south-central Saskatchewan by 2027. So far, a portion of this funding has been allocated to support the implementation of a 200-megawatt wind facility project partnership between Innagreen Investments and Awasis Nehiyawewini
Energy Development Limited and a 100-megawatt solar project partnership between Iyuhána Solar LP and Ocean Man First Nation.
• And additional investments to train more Indigenous power line technicians alongside the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies.
Stettler, AB (403) 742-2212 info@flaretechinc com www.flaretechinc.com
As demand for electricity grows, the opportunity to power our communities and the world with clean, affordable, and reliable power is a win-win-win –for workers, for affordability, and for the environment. The Government of Canada’s plan is working to drive greenhouse gas pollution down while the economy grows and inflation cools. Together, with provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, municipalities, industry, and workers, the Government of Canada is seizing the opportunity ahead to build a strong economy with good-paying sustainable jobs, low energy bills, and to ensure a healthy environment for our children and grandchildren.
“We are Powering Canada Forward by unlocking opportunities in every province and territory, leveraging their unique strengths to rapidly grow and responsibly decarbonize their grids,” said the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “Thanks to this suite of historic investments, industrial pricing returns, permitting reform, demand-side measures, and other federal actions, we are already seeing great progress to support Saskatchewan’s growing demand for electricity. The Government of Canada is proud to partner with other governments, utilities, workers, and local and Indigenous communities to help unlock economic opportunities that cut power bills, create good jobs, and build a strong and sustainable economy.”
Fort Garry Fire Trucks is the largest fire apparatus manufacturer in Canada and are proud builders of fire trucks, custom-built pumpers, aerial ladders, and related fire-fighting equipment. Our customers emanate from cities, towns, and municipalities throughout Canada, the U.S., and abroad with the harshest weather, climates, and terrain.
Every aspect of design and construction is handled by Fort Garry employees, from painting to pump
assembly. As we have grown over the years, so too have our product lines. Fort Garry Fire Trucks manufactures a wide range of vehicles, including rescue trucks, pumper trucks, tankers, and even aerial ladder platforms, thanks to our exclusive partnership as the Canadian distributor for Sutphen Corporation. In fact, Fort Garry now offers 130 product lines and over 12,000 options for customers to choose from for the most extreme conditions in the world—which is why we design “One Tough Truck ”
Over the last 30 years, the WBPC has become a “who’s who” of industry experts and leadership in the Bakken and beyond, providing a platform to discuss breakthrough technologies, energy markets, potential untapped formations, the regulatory environment, and more.
An alternating event between North Dakota and Regina, the WBPC will be back in Regina from April 28th to 30th, 2025 at the Delta Hotel and Conference Centre, bringing together over 500 geologists, engineers, government leaders and supply chain experts. In collaboration with PTRC Sustainable Energy, the Saskatchewan Geological Survey and the Government of Saskatchewan, the 2025 conference will get back to basics with sessions focused on producing more oil, reducing the corresponding environmental footprint, and mitigating emissions – all at the same time.
“The event acts as an incubator and accelerator of innovation,” says Ran Narayanasamy, Chief Executive Officer and President of the PTRC. “This year, the focus will be on geological and engineering strategies aimed at increasing the production of
subsurface energy while reducing the carbon footprint.”
One key initiative is the introduction in 2024 of a multi-lateral well drilling program in Saskatchewan. This innovative approach increases access to oil reservoirs with fewer surface disturbances and reduced water usage when compared to hydraulic fracturing, positioning Saskatchewan as a leader in responsible energy development. The program is expected to add up to 200 new wells annually, attracting investment, creating jobs, and supporting sustainable growth in the oil sector.
Saskatchewan is investing in crucial infrastructure and innovation projects. The Oil and Gas Processing Investment Incentive (OGPII) offers support for Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage projects, with a focus on using captured carbon dioxide in EOR. The Oil Infrastructure Investment Program (OIIP) is an initiative offering incentives to expand pipeline capacity, including oil and carbon dioxide pipelines, which supports the provincial economy and enhances energy independence, while the Saskatchewan
Petroleum Innovation Incentive (SPII) supports a broad range of innovative commercialization projects.
“Saskatchewan’s commitment to regulatory excellence ensures that oil & gas exploration and development are conducted responsibly, with an emphasis on reducing environmental impacts and increasing the efficiency of recovery,” says Ryan Morelli, Chief Geologist, Saskatchewan Geological Survey. “These efforts will also help support the province’s longterm economic and environmental sustainability goals.”
WHEN INDUSTRY NEEDS COMPRESSED AIR, THEY TRUST COMAIRCO TO MEET THEIR EXPECTATIONS.
In addition to business strategy sessions, the conference will run over 30 presentations focused on geology, as well as an expanded engineering stream. On April 28th, the renowned CORE Workshop will walk attendees through stratigraphic columns (oldest to youngest) with a focus on oilproducing horizons, especially the Mississippian.
Registration for the conference is now open. Visit www.wbpc.ca or contact sales@eventworx.ca for information on sponsorship, presenting, and exhibiting.
The Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) has a long history of supporting innovation through research and technological advancement. Since the early 1980s, SRC has offered services that improve upon processing technologies for large-scale chemical and resource applications, helping a wide range of industries develop solutions with positive economic and environmental impacts.
The team behind these services has evolved over the years, consisting of a variety of client-focused professionals, such as electrical and chemical engineers, geologists, physicists, and chemists. If you ask them what types of problems they can solve, they’ll often answer, “What do you need?” And this flexibility and breadth of expertise is what gives the team its unique edge.
Over the last 40 years, the team has grown from its hydrocarbon origins – where the focus then was on heavy oil upgrading research – to pursue many types of projects, including several biomass projects and conversion to valueadded projects.
Related work was completed in areas such as synthetic natural gas, ethanol plant efficiency, and biorefinery feasibility as SRC expanded its facilities and expertise.
In the 1980s, SRC experts focused its efforts on studying alternative fuel vehicles. Its Dual-Fuel™ vehicles were powered
by both a traditional fuel source and an alternative fuel source – such as compressed natural gas, hydrogen, or ethanol – and aimed to alleviate the demand for traditional fuel.
In the early 2000s, SRC became involved in emulsion research, focused on oil field surface facilities.
SRC’s experts tested new chemicals to help address the changes in the water-oil ratio. New and improved chemicals could be used in different parts of the reservoir, which aligned with updated production techniques.
In 2000, the team led a mineral project that focused on Saskatchewan’s kaolin clay resources.
The kaolin produced in Saskatchewan is suitable for use as a cement additive, but high-purity kaolin has other uses and is priced higher in the market. To evaluate emulsion sample aging and upgrading of the province’s kaolin resource, SRC ran a pilot plant outside of Regina.
Changes occur in emulsion samples that are collected in the field and must be transported and stored before testing. SRC developed a mobile treater lab that was designed to operate in the field. This mobile lab had the necessary equipment to conduct continuous field tests of alternative additives and conditions. This design helped SRC to alleviate the issue of sample aging, where the emulsion samples undergo changes during transport. Eventually, the mobile field concept was redesigned and updated to a mini-treater design.
In 2016, SRC launched the Centre for the Demonstration of Emissions Reductions (CeDER), a platform that provides real-world testing, demonstration and validation of emissions measurement, reduction, capture and conversion technologies.
The CeDER platform has a range of services and capabilities that build upon SRC’s decades of work in mining, energy, and the environment, such as access to instrumented mobile facilities for independent, third-party technology demonstrations, emissions testing, performance validation, and air quality monitoring. It supports the industry by helping select, test, and evaluate in the field the performance of emissions reduction and mitigation technologies.
Today, SRC primarily works on green technologies, such as fully customizable Hybrid Energy Containers and microgrids.
SRC continues to grow its suite of energy-related services
to assist clients with tackling energy transition and climate adaptation. Some solutions include smart grid design and operation, behind-the-meter renewable generation, industrial automation, and data logging and wide-area monitoring networks for climate mesonets.
SRC provides services and guidance for most aspects of the low-carbon power generation, energy transition, and climate adaptation landscapes. SRC is working on a variety of projects to catalyze the energy transition.
Currently, SRC’s team is focused on assessing carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects that look at salt cavern storage, developing a process for direct lithium extraction from brine, building a pilot plant for salt processing from design to operation, and many other groundbreaking projects.
The team is also continuing to work on oil & gas projects, most recently on oil field combustion testing – remaining connected to its oil & gas roots.
Wondering how to plan for your energy transition? The Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) offers a wide range of services and expertise to help develop and implement your roadmap.
Integrated Energy Systems
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• Hybrid Energy Storage
• Optimization and Monitoring
Oil and Gas Evolution
• Emissions Reduction
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• Biofuels and Waste to Energy
• Waste Valorization
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• Data Management Solutions
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State-of-the-art equipment and facilities
• Focused technical consultations
• Early stage research SERVICES
• Prototype development
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ANALYTICAL CAPABILITIES
• Enhanced oil recovery methods
• Fluid-fluid and rock analyses
• Routine and special core analyses
• High pressure, high temperature (HPHT) studies
• Physical modeling
• Numerical simulations
In September of 2024, PTRC Sustainable Energy received new funding from Innovation Saskatchewan totaling $1.5 million for the development of a new RD&D facility at the PTRC’s building in Regina. That new centre, called the Energy Innovation Hub (EIH), offers expertise, facilities and equipment for the development of all kinds of energy production. The EIH aims to help industry, researchers and government develop technologies that will lessen the environmental impacts of new and ongoing energy production.
“The EIH has state-of-the-industry equipment and testing facilities,” notes Matt Nasehi, Director of the Energy Innovation Hub. “But the new facility is unique in that PTRC has extensive expertise in areas like carbon capture and storage (CCS), heavy oil and enhanced oil recovery, and geothermal energy. The fact we can now twin that expertise with our own lab and testing capabilities is a game changer.”
The PTRC has had a long history of directing and funding RD&D projects
that have improved efficiency and reduced the environmental impacts of oil production. PTRC’s work diversified into CO2 enhanced oil recovery (through the Weyburn-Midale CO2 Monitoring and Storage project from 2000 to 2012) and permanent CO2 storage with the Aquistore CO2 Deep Saline Storage Project (affiliated with SaskPower’s Boundary Dam Carbon Capture Facility near Estevan). Most recently, the company also completed a feasibility study for the City of Regina that led to the incorporation of geothermal heat for its new downtown aquatic centre.
“The next logical step for PTRC was the establishment of the EIH,” says PTRC’s CEO Ranjith Narayanasamy.
“The facility is an acknowledgement of the importance of our work in helping Saskatchewan and Canada develop
The EIH offers key research support, including for early stage projects and technologies, prototype development, commercialization, and field deployment/piloting.
a sustainable energy mix that both reduces emissions and environmental impacts but also advances different energy options.”
The EIH offers key research support, including for early stage projects and technologies, prototype development, commercialization, and field deployment/piloting. The EIH offers focused technical consultation, jointindustry projects, and proof-of-concept tests tailored to new technologies from
small and medium enterprises.
“The EIH has a comprehensive suite of analytical capabilities including rock analyses, routing and special core analyses, high pressure and high temperature phase behaviour studies, physical modeling and numerical/ computer simulations,” Chief Scientist and Engineer Peng Luo says.
Those capabilities are tied to the EIH’s laboratory equipment, including
an industrial scale CT-scanner, core holders and larger physical models, a hydraulic fracture tester, PVT chambers, GC- and LC-analyzers, ultra-highspeed centrifuges, and more.
“We’re excited by the opportunities this new hub offers both researchers and industry partners to collaborate with us and develop impactful solutions,” notes Nasehi. More information on the EIH can be found at the PTRC’s website https:// ptrc/ca/EIH.
Courtesy of Prairies Economic Development Canada
Saskatchewan is internationally known for mining and exploration, and more recently getting recognition for critical minerals, including rare earth elements, which are used in electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines, everyday electronics, and industrial uses. As the demand for critical minerals to power the clean economy is expected to double by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency, there is an enormous economic opportunity for Saskatchewan and for Canada to seize. Since 2020, the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) has taken the lead in processing and commercializing value-added products using rare earth elements throughout the development of its Rare Earth Processing Facility in Saskatoon, the first of its kind in Canada.
In August, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and
Natural Resources, on behalf of the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of PrairiesCan, announced new funding of over $16 million to support SRC in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. This funding builds on earlier support of nearly $13.5 million from PrairiesCan and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) for SRC to establish its Rare Earth Processing Facility and develop new rare earth mineral processing technologies.
“Our government is investing in the economic opportunities presented by our critical minerals wealth, ensuring that Canadians will benefit from the mining, processing and sale of rare earth elements and other critical minerals through the creation of good jobs, expansion of the mining sector, and prospects for future innovations and reduced emissions,” Wilkinson said.
“Investing in regional strengths like mining, exploration, and mineral processing helps us build a solid path to a strong sustainable future for all Canadians,” Vandal added. “SRC’s Rare Earth Processing Facility plays an important role in our government’s plan to establish a domestic rare earth supply chain that grows our economy and creates good jobs for Canadians.”
The announcement includes $15.96 million through PrairiesCan to enable SRC to acquire bastnaesite (a type of ore containing rare earth elements) from Canadian sources and create new domestic capacity for bastnaesite processing, which will be integrated into SRC’s Rare Earth Processing Facility. SRC will process bastnaesite ore acquired from Vital Metals Ltd.’s Canadian operations to produce a mixed rare earth product, which will be further processed using SRC’s solvent extraction and metal smelting technology to produce rare earth metals. SRC will also collaborate with a local educational institution to develop and deliver a training program for Indigenous students to operate bastnaesite processing equipment.
“The funding announced by PrairiesCan means SRC will be able to expand its current Rare Earth Processing Facility to process a wider range of rare earth minerals – developing additional capacity and knowledge within Canada
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• The rare earth metals produced from SRC’s recent purchase of bastnaesite alone could be used to power 62,500 electric vehicles.
• The Government of Canada has identified 34 critical minerals, and 27 of those can be found in Saskatchewan.
• Canada has some of the largest known reserves and resources of rare earths, estimated at over 14 million tonnes in 2021.
for this burgeoning industry,” noted Mike Crabtree, President and CEO, Saskatchewan Research Council. “SRC’s Rare Earth Processing Facility will soon be operational, making the province a domestic rare earth technology hub and an essential part of Canada’s critical minerals supply chain.”
The investment of $209,330 from NRCan, under the Critical Minerals
help SRC create a publicly available database of mineral characteristics, which will expand the understanding of critical mineral deposits in Canada and reduce mining waste. The new data will help make better predictions about the types of deposits that can be identified by sensor-based sorting, reducing the costs of developing critical mineral deposits into mines and the energy consumption and waste associated with
• Mineral exploration expenditures in Saskatchewan hit a 10year high in 2023, with uranium exploration leading the way, demonstrating the region’s high global attractiveness for investment (Saskatchewan Ministry of Energy and Resources Exploration and Development Highlights Report, 2023). S U N C R E S T C O L L E G E . C A
The Government of Canada, through the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy, is making crucial investments in critical minerals, and seizing the economic opportunity the clean economy presents for Saskatchewan and for Canada – in line with our goal to become a critical minerals supplier of choice for the democratic world and create good jobs and economic opportunities for
The Government of Saskatchewan's Growth Plan aims to increase oil production by 25 per cent to 600,000 barrels per day by 2030. To get there, we offer incentive programs designed to attract investment, encourage innovation and drive sustainable growth in Saskatchewan’s oil, gas, helium and lithium industries.
The Government of Saskatchewan's Growth Plan aims to increase oil production by 25 per cent to 600,000 barrels per day by 2030. To get there, we offer incentive programs designed to attract investment, encourage innovation and drive sustainable growth in Saskatchewan’s oil, gas, helium and lithium industries.
The Oil Infrastructure Investment Program offers transferable crown royalty and freehold production tax credits for qualified projects at a rate of 20 per cent of eligible project costs. The program is open to applications until March 31, 2025, and includes new or expanded oil or carbon dioxide pipelines which directly increase pipeline capacity in Saskatchewan.
The Oil Infrastructure Investment Program offers transferable crown royalty and freehold production tax credits for qualified projects at a rate of 20 per cent of eligible project costs. The program is open to applications until March 31, 2025, and includes new or expanded oil or carbon dioxide pipelines which directly increase pipeline capacity in Saskatchewan.
The Oil and Gas Processing Investment Incentive offers transferable crown royalty and freehold production tax credits for qualified greenfield or brownfield value-added projects at a rate of 15 per cent of eligible program costs. The program is open to applications until March 31, 2024, and includes value-added projects across all segments of Saskatchewan’s oil, gas, helium and lithium sectors as well as chemical fertilizer facilities.
The Oil and Gas Processing Investment Incentive offers transferable crown royalty and freehold production tax credits for qualified greenfield or brownfield value-added projects at a rate of 15 per cent of eligible program costs. The program is open to applications until March 31, 2024, and includes value-added projects across all segments of Saskatchewan’s oil, gas, helium and lithium sectors as well as chemical fertilizer facilities.
The Saskatchewan Petroleum Innovation Incentive offers transferable crown royalty and freehold production tax credits for qualified innovation commercialization projects at a rate of 25 per cent of eligible project costs. The program targets innovations across Saskatchewan’s oil, gas, helium or lithium industry. The program is open to applications until March 31, 2024, and includes both pilot projects and commercial scaling projects giving applicants the ability to test their innovations in a pilot setting then deploy them at larger commercial scales.
The Saskatchewan Petroleum Innovation Incentive offers transferable crown royalty and freehold production tax credits for qualified innovation commercialization projects at a rate of 25 per cent of eligible project costs. The program targets innovations across Saskatchewan’s oil, gas, helium or lithium industry. The program is open to applications until March 31, 2024, and includes both pilot projects and commercial scaling projects giving applicants the ability to test their innovations in a pilot setting then deploy them at larger commercial scales.
Co-processing renewables is an attractive and cost-effective way of reducing the carbon intensity of liquid products from refineries. Coprocessing, along with carbon-capture in supporting refinery units like hydrogen generation, helps refineries take steps toward the goal of carbonneutrality. Hydroprocessing units can be converted to co-process plantbased oils and animal fats with minimal changes to processing scheme.
The plant and animal fats consist of triglycerides, which are C17-C20 chains of paraffins attached to a glycerol backbone. The paraffin molecules fall in the diesel boiling range, and the catalyst
can be tailored to ensure the final product meets the requirement for the intended grade of diesel1.
Due to hydro-deoxygenation and decarboxylation reactions, coprocessing of bio feedstocks is inherently more exothermic than fossil feed hydroprocessing. Hence, careful consideration must be given to the design of catalyst and quench requirements.
Generally, diesel and distillate hydrotreater reactor effluents are dry and there is minimal water with the feed and recycle gas. However, due to the generation of water and carbon dioxide while co-processing, there are
additional corrosion concerns that are not present for traditional fossil feed hydrotreating. The water injection for most hydroprocessing units is upstream of the reactor effluent air cooler. This is due to the relatively dry nature of the product from the reactors. With co-processing, the water injection may need to be shifted upstream to the reactor effluent exchanger circuit. This has knock-on effects on the heat integration due to the decrease in temperature that occurs with water injection.
Carbon dioxide in the product combines with water to form carbonic acid, increasing the possibility of carbonic
Asbestos exposure is the number one cause of work-related deaths in Saskatchewan.
Asbestos was commonly used in homes built before 1990. More than 3,000 building materials and other products contain asbestos, such as vinyl floor tiles, window putty and duct coverings. When tiny asbestos fibres are airborne, they can get into the lungs and cause severe damage over many years.
If you think there is a risk of asbestos, test for it to protect yourself and your co-workers.
At higher co-processing rates, bio feedstock needs to be injected directly upstream of the reactor to mitigate fouling. Depending on the type of renewable feedstock, there’s a threshold temperature beyond which fouling in the heat exchanger circuit becomes a real concern.
acid corrosion in the water phase along with the ammonium chloride and bisulphide salts. A proper assessment of metallurgy is required for the reactor effluent circuit at lower temperatures.
In addition to corrosion concerns, potential fouling in the feed circuit
needs to be addressed when considering co-processing. Bio feedstocks lend themselves to degradation at temperature in the reactor effluent circuit due to the presence of small quantities of phospholipids, which tend to polymerize at higher temperatures2. At higher co-processing rates, bio
feedstock needs to be injected directly upstream of the reactor to mitigate fouling. Depending on the type of renewable feedstock, there’s a threshold temperature beyond which fouling in the heat exchanger circuit becomes a real concern.
The other process considerations include increased purge requirement and increased gas production. The increase in gas purge will require rebalancing the fuel gas system. This may require revamping of downstream units to ensure the existing processing facilities are adequate to handle the changing fuel gas composition.
If a primary amine is used for the scrubbing of purge gas, carbon dioxide will be carried over to amine regeneration, sour water stripper, and sulphur plant, which requires careful evaluation of those facilities3, 4.
In addition to the hydroprocessing unit, there are ripple effects to various parts of the refinery. Hence, the
options for processing bio feedstocks in a hydrotreater should be carefully considered and designed. Fluor has worked closely with owners and licensors to provide technical expertise in implementing a fit-for-purpose design that meets the requirements of a project. Fluor’s engineering knowledge and experience with revamps, along with project management skills, can be leveraged to tackle the unique challenges that are part of modifying an existing unit into a co-processing operation.
1. Peter Andreas Nymann and Pronit Lahiri, Topsoe. Co-processing renewables in a hydrocracker. Petroleum Technology Quarterly, March 2023.
2. Dr. Sara Green, Ph.D., Customer Solutions Advisor, Catalysts & Licensing, ExxonMobil Chemical Company Key considerations for design and operation of a renewable diesel unit. Internet Publication
3. Le Grange, P, Tekebayev, K., Goettler, L., Kiebert, J. Sulphur Experts, Sheilan, M. Amine Experts. Impact of biofeed retrofits, coprocessing on refinery amine units, SWSs and SRUs – Part 1. Hydrocarbon Processing, January 2022.
4. Le Grange, P, Tekebayev, K., Goettler, L., Kiebert, J. Sulphur Experts, Sheilan, M. Amine Experts. Impact of biofeed retrofits, coprocessing on refinery amine units, SWSs and SRUs – Part 2. Hydrocarbon Processing, February 2022.
Iyuhána Solar partnership with GSI, Saturn Power, and Canadian Indigenous peoples
Ocean Man First Nation awarded one of the Canada’s largest solar projects
Greenwood Sustainable Infrastructure LLC (GSI), one of the renewable energy subsidiaries of Libra Group, announced that Iyuhána Solar (Iyuhána), a GSI-led partnership with Saturn Power Inc. and Ocean Man First Nation, has been awarded a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to construct and operate a 100-megawatt (MWac) utility-scale solar facility in Saskatchewan, Canada. Developed in partnership with Ocean Man First Nation, the project will be one of Canada’s top 10 solar facilities by size.
Under an exclusive PPA, the largest with a utility in Canada since 2015, Iyuhána plans to invest approximately $200 million (CDN) to construct the solar facility, which it will operate, supplying generated power to the principal municipal utility company, SaskPower, for 25 years. Located in the Rural Municipality of Estevan in southeast
Saskatchewan, this emissions-free solar facility will produce enough power for the equivalent of approximately 25,000 homes.
“We are proud to bring the transformative power of solar energy to Saskatchewan by working with partners such as Ocean Man First Nation,” said Mazen Turk, CEO of GSI. “This unique collaboration shows the power of renewable energy to harness resources and empower communities responsibly. This work is core to our ethos as a Libra company, and we look forward to continuing to help support a clean energy future across Canada and beyond.”
As a founding partner, Ocean Man First Nation will have an ownership stake in Iyuhána Solar. Band members will also receive specialized training to maintain
Our Energy Systems Engineering (ERSE) program offers you a one-of-a-kind opportunity to study a comprehensive energy-related curriculum that is the first of its kind. Other programs under the title “Energy” mainly focus on sustainable energy engineering with limited additions of energy storage courses – the ERSE program offers the Petroleum Engineering, Sustainable Energy Engineering, and Energy Transportation and Storage options simultaneously. The multidisciplinary curricula will allow you the flexibility of switching among the three options or graduate with the skills in more than one discipline required in the energy industry.
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Energy Systems Engineering
• Bachelor of Applied Science (Co-op) in Energy Systems Engineering
• Bachelor of Applied Science (Internship) in Energy Systems Engineering
Petroleum Engineering:
Well Logging Engineer
Petrophysicist
Production Engineer
Sustainable Energy Engineering: Energy Engineer
Field Service Engineer
Renewable Energy Project Engineer
Energy Transport and Storage:
Pipeline Engineer
Refining Engineer
Process Engineer
Our Systems Engineering approach combines classes in areas such as business, economic, social, environmental, and professional awareness and focuses on the range of skills you need to be a professional engineer in the modern world. Combining the human elements of engineering with the technical side prepares you to work in the broader context of multi-disciplinary, team design approach.
The ERSE program offers hands-on learning with real-world experience. Plus, you’ll have access to hands-on laboratories and the opportunity to make close connections with dedicated instructors.
CO-OPERATIVE EDUCATION AND INTERNSHIPS
Earn while you learn! As an ERSE student, Co-op work placements allow you to earn between $8,000 and $13,000 per semester while gaining valuable real-world experience. Plus, after completing the required number of work terms, your degree will have a co-op designation.
HANDS-ON LABS
• Crescent Point Petroleum Lab
• Future Sustainable Energy Lab
RESEARCH AREAS
During your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in cutting- edge research.
The Petroleum Engineering option focuses on exploiting oil and gas resources.
The Sustainable Energy Engineering option focuses on developing and enhancing the required clean energy technology.
The Energy Transportation and Storage option focuses on knowledge and skills of safe, clean, and energy- efficient transportation and storage.
the solar facilities and employment opportunities with the project. Additionally, partnering with two of Saskatchewan’s leading post-secondary academic institutions, Iyuhána will provide scholarships, internships, and direct research projects in clean energy to benefit the community.
“Our partnership with GSI and SaskPower will bring great opportunities for Ocean Man First Nation, including employment and revenue that will provide stability and sustainability for our Band,” said Chief Connie Big Eagle, Ocean Man First Nation. “We are proud that this project, which can generate clean power, will be known as Iyuhána Solar, which, in Nakotah translates to ‘everyone’ or ‘all of us.’ This is derived from our Nakotah belief that everyone and everything is related and therefore we must care for each other.”
While investment in renewable energy grows across Canada, Saskatchewan’s clean power supply mix has predominantly consisted of hydro and wind. This is the first of many planned solar projects in the province; by 2035, SaskPower plans to support approximately 3,000 MW of new renewable energy capacity in the region.
“This new solar facility will play an important role in our path to net-zero by 2050 or sooner,” said Rupen Pandya, SaskPower President and CEO. “We are proud of our ongoing collaboration with Indigenous peoples and the critical role they are playing in the successful expansion of renewable energy in our province.”
Greenwood Sustainable Infrastructure (GSI) is one of the clean energy
789
subsidiaries of Libra Group. GSI is a renewable energy company focused on the development, construction, and operation of distributed generation and utility-scale solar energy and battery storage projects in North America. As of January 2024, the company developed approximately 388 MW DC across 71 renewable energy projects, many of which are still owned or operated by GSI and have an additional project pipeline of 1.6 GW. GSI’s seasoned team has a proven track record of investing in power assets and partnering with multiple top-tiered investors. For more information on Greenwood Sustainable Infrastructure (GSI), visit: http://www. greenwoodinfra.com/
The Ocean Man First Nation is a Nakota, Cree, and Saulteaux Band Government in southeast Saskatchewan. OMFN is led by Chief Connie Big Eagle & Council and
Iyuhána Solar has entered into a partnership with the University of Regina (URegina). With an ongoing shared dedication to sustainability, URegina will conduct a five-year pre-construction and post-construction wildlife and vegetation impact study (the Research Project). The Research Project will aim to assess short-term and long-term impacts and benefits of new solar construction on wildlife and vegetation compared to similar unimpacted areas. The Research Project will further assess how a variety of prairieland species respond to construction and operation of the Project with a special focus on:
• Changes to structure and composition of the vegetation community
• Changes to use of the site by breeding and migratory birds
• Changes to use of the site by bats
URegina is Saskatchewan’s leading experience-based learning university hosting over 16,000 students, 3,000 faculty/staff, 200 academic programs across ten faculties and three federated colleges. Through the Iyuhána Solar Project, young academic professionals will be provided access to real world experience, consultation & mentorship which will play an impactful role in future successes of young students and aspiring industry professionals.
features a population of 565 members. Ocean Man First Nation created a renewable energy company in 2019 called Second Wind Power. The name Second Wind Power reflects Ocean Man First Nation’s history of relocating, reestablishing and starting over as a new community since 1989.
As well, Iyuhána Solar has allocated $40,000 in funding to support the Southeast College Centre of Sustainable Innovation, to be located a short 20 kilometers from the Project site. The Centre will work to advance the development and diversification of Saskatchewan’s Southeast region’s economy and create the skilled workforce needed to support the renewables industry in Saskatchewan.
Additionally, Iyuhána Solar has established a $10,000 scholarship for students at Southeast College which will be awarded annually, beginning June 2024, and continuing over the operating lifetime of the Project.
GSI, through Iyuhána Solar, is proud to work closely and support these important endeavours at Southeast College and the Centre for Sustainable Innovation. This groundbreaking project combined with community-minded efforts such as those directed towards Southeast College, are at the core of GSI’s ethos and aligned with our vision to create a sustainable environment for future generations.
Libra Group is a privately owned, global business group encompassing 20 businesses predominately focused on aerospace, renewable energy, maritime, real estate, hospitality, and diversified investments. With assets and
operations in nearly 60 countries, the Group applies the strength of its global network and capabilities to deliver cross-sector insights and growth at scale. For more information, visit www.libra.com.
The Williston Basin exploded onto the scene early in the 1950s with big operators like Amerada Hess and Shell in the region. Since then, production ebbed, but high-quality data, technology advances, and new unconventional techniques helped hurdle challenges and bring success to the region.
One key problem is understanding who is operating/has assets active in the basin to further business development. For example, are there assets to divest or acquire, or companies requiring field support to execute on integrity management plans.
Another problem is satisfying regulatory requirements and preparing documentation when asked to provide details on how companies operate. A recent example includes the
Saskatchewan regulator’s retroactive licensing program, which GDM Inc. believe is the beginning of programs that will impact the industry going forward.
These problems exist industry-wide and affect companies that need a solution to support asset integrity programs, whether internally or with third parties that create and/or execute on those plans.
GDM provides solutions for the companies working in the Williston Basin by providing access to asset intelligence, including data gathered from multiple sources and enhanced to build knowledge. We also have an application for an easy way to collect, manage, and store data, creating asset intelligence. This intelligence is easy
to access to empower asset integrity and provide consistency across all companies working in the Williston Basin.
GDM’s curated database provides advanced intelligence available nowhere else. Our comprehensive data crosses both borders, and our data can show:
• There are 70,000 pipelines in the basin with 96 per cent in Canada (67,319) and four per cent in the US (2,570).
• 77 per cent of Canadian pipelines are in Saskatchewan (53,710).
• 43,572 pipelines are retroactively licensed Saskatchewan lines with half operating.
• 6,600 of these pipelines are considered high/severe risk.
• There are 125,576 wells in the basin with 64 per cent in Canada (80,760) and 36 per cent in the US (44,500).
• 54 per cent of the Canadian wells are in Saskatchewan (67,600).
• There are 16,073 facilities in the basin with 99 per cent in Canada (15,965) and one per cent in the US (108).
• 96 per cent of the Canadian facilities are in Saskatchewan (15,449). Most of these facilities are batteries or satellites.
Over the years, many companies have come in and out of the basin through mergers and acquisitions. Our data captures the changes of who these companies are (inclusive of structured/ unstructured data, historical data, water crossings, etc.) band helps those
companies transition asset records seamlessly. While ownership changes, the data remains constant and available to both companies in the transition.
When the Saskatchewan government implemented a retroactive flowline licensing program, it was clear companies needed current data and a complete picture of how assets changed hands.
GDM is the only provider of information for Saskatchewan unlicensed lines. We worked with operators and surveyors to include all available information in our data. With the advent of the retroactive licensing initiative, we combined our historical data with regulatory data to provide the most complete picture of Saskatchewan assets.
Our established relationships with
operators allows them to manage their data within our database (e.g., crossings and risk which may not be a part of the licensed information). This means GDM can provide and/or calculate on current assets, guaranteeing the data we provide gives clients the competitive advantage.
The Williston Basin is a testament to the resilience and innovation of the energy industry, with Saskatchewan playing a pivotal role. As the landscape continues to evolve, challenges will persist, but technology advancements and data management will prove instrumental in toppling them.
Contact us for information on how GDM supports Saskatchewan growth plans in the national and global energy industry or visit www.gdm-inc.com.
Nestled in the heart of Saskatchewan, Weyburn is a shining example of how small communities can lead the way in global energy innovation. Weyburn has established itself as a significant player in the energy sector, blending traditional oil & gas production with cutting-edge sustainability practices.
At the forefront of Weyburn’s energy industry is Whitecap Resource Weyburn Unit, home to one of the world’s largest and most advanced Carbon Capture and Utilization Storage (CCUS) projects. Since 2000, this project has safely stored 41 million tonnes of purchased third-party CO2, setting a global benchmark for environmental stewardship and innovation in energy production. The CCUS initiative utilizes CO2 captured from industrial sources and injects it into the Weyburn oilfield, not only reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also enhancing oil recovery through Enhanced Oil Recovery
(EOR). This dual-purpose approach positions Weyburn as a model of sustainable resource management.
Weyburn’s energy industry is supported by a robust network of service companies that play a critical role in its success. These businesses provide essential services, including drilling rigs, service rigs, and construction, ensuring the seamless operation of energy projects in the region. The expertise and dedication of these local companies have cemented Weyburn’s reputation as a reliable and innovative hub for energy production.
Weyburn is not only a leader in oil & gas but is also paving the way for renewable energy initiatives. Recently, a wind turbine facility was announced for the area that will contribute 200 MW of power to the grid system. While the Seven Stars Energy Project is still under review, its proposed location southeast
of Weyburn, including the RM of Griffin, promises to have a significant economic impact on the community.
In addition to wind energy, Weyburn is also home to solar power initiatives. Located southwest of the city in the RM of Weyburn, the solar energy project is another testament to the community’s commitment to diversifying its energy portfolio and embracing sustainable practices.
As a community that values growth and innovation, Weyburn is open for future investment. Its strategic location, skilled workforce, and welcoming business environment make it an attractive destination for energy companies looking to expand their operations. With a proven track record in traditional and renewable energy projects, Weyburn offers unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and success.
Weyburn’s energy sector is more than just a source of economic strength; it’s a beacon of what’s possible in the transition toward cleaner energy systems. The success of the Weyburn Unit’s CCUS project, combined with the potential of wind and solar energy initiatives, highlights the city’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
As the world seeks sustainable energy solutions, Weyburn stands as a model of innovation and resilience. Whether through its groundbreaking CCUS project, its expanding renewable energy sector, or its thriving network of service companies, Weyburn is proving that small communities can drive big changes in the global energy landscape.
SaskPower’s new 370-megawatt Great Plains Power Station is now officially online near Moose Jaw.
As a combined-cycle natural gas-fired station, Great Plains will efficiently generate reliable baseload power.
“Great Plains Power Station will provide the reliable and affordable power that Saskatchewan needs to keep growing,”
Minister Responsible for SaskPower Jeremy Harrison said.
“Construction of the plant has already made significant contributions to the local and provincial economy, with more than 300 Saskatchewan companies contributing to this project for a total of $266.7 million in local participation and $48.9 million in Indigenous participation.”
Construction of Great Plains began in March of 2021. At the peak of construction in July 2023, there were more than 600 workers on site each day. Overall, 70 per cent of workers on the project were from Saskatchewan, including 13 per cent from Moose Jaw. Now up and running, the plant is operated by 25 full-time employees on site.
“The demand for power will continue to rise as electrification increases and the economy grows,” said Rupen Pandya, SaskPower President and CEO. “Natural gas generation provides a reliable 24/7 power supply that will enable us to meet this challenge.”
Burns & McDonnell were selected as SaskPower’s engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partner for the Great Plains project through a competitive procurement process.
“We are proud to partner with SaskPower and advance a sustainable energy future,” said Leslie M. Duke, chair and CEO of Burns & McDonnell. “The Great Plains Power Station is designed to optimize power output, enhance energy efficiency and significantly reduce emissions, contributing to a cleaner and more reliable energy system.”
For more information about the project please visit saskpower. com/greatplains.
Asbestos exposure is the number one cause of work-related deaths in Saskatchewan.
Asbestos was commonly used in homes built before 1990. More than 3,000 building materials and other products contain asbestos, such as vinyl floor tiles, window putty and duct coverings. When tiny asbestos fibres are airborne, they can get into the lungs and cause severe damage over many years.
If you think there is a risk of asbestos, test for it to protect yourself and your co-workers.
In September, SaskPower announced the creation of a nuclear subsidiary called SaskNuclear to advance the province’s Small Modular Reactor project through the regulatory and licensing process as the utility works towards reaching net-zero by 2050 or sooner.
SaskNuclear will allow SaskPower to advance its small modular reactor (SMR) development project from a business and regulatory standpoint.
“Canada’s nuclear industry is held to a very high standard, and establishing a subsidiary dedicated to nuclear power will help SaskPower meet Canada’s
strict regulatory requirements,” said Dustin Duncan, Minister Responsible for SaskPower. “The work done at SaskNuclear in the coming years will help support a final investment decision on whether to proceed with SMRs in 2029.”
The subsidiary will be wholly owned by SaskPower and will share a President, CEO, and Board of Directors.
“A key part of our planning and development work is to evaluate various business models that would advance our project as effectively as possible,” said Rupen Pandya, SaskPower and SaskNuclear President and CEO.
“Establishing a nuclear subsidiary is the best option for a greenfield jurisdiction, like Saskatchewan.”
Nuclear power is federally regulated by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission and has standards and regulations that are unique to the nuclear industry that differ from SaskPower’s other generation sources. SaskPower will need to build a nuclear information management system and establish a strong nuclear safety culture to become a licensed nuclear operator.
Learn more about SaskPower’s SMR development work at saskpower.com/ nuclear.
