Saskatchewan’s deficit may surge past $1.4B as SaskPower seeks support

Saskatchewan’s government is preparing to spend over $1 billion more than budgeted, a move that could dramatically deepen the province’s deficit.

During a late committee session, officials revealed that SaskPower needs an additional $813 million to cover mounting expenses, along with $194 million to pay carbon price fuel charges that were not collected.

Opposition members strongly criticized Premier Scott Moe’s government for refusing to take questions, noting that Crown Investments Minister Jeremy Harrison did not attend the meeting.

NDP critic Aleana Young said SaskPower is experiencing historic financial losses and warned that households could face higher power bills. Finance critic Trent Wotherspoon called the move “reckless” and accused the government of avoiding accountability.

Earlier in the year, the province expected a $12-million surplus, but the mid-year outlook projected a $427-million deficit. If these new expenses pass, Young estimates the deficit could balloon to at least $1.4 billion.

Government officials stated that ministers are not required to attend committee meetings, though the Opposition noted that no billion-dollar request was made during the comparable 2022 meeting.

SaskPower has not yet provided public comment on potential impacts, including possible rate increases.