U3101 - Generation and transmission of electric systems

Operational Details
Power, production, systems operations, decision support, transmission and distribution are key roles in the operation of Saskatchewan’s generating stations. By working together, these business units are responsible for safe, sufficient, and reliable production and transmission of electricity to the province. SaskPower operates 14 generating stations and services 420,000 customers over 526,000 square kilometres of diverse terrain. Hydroelectric power, when the river flows are average, contributes approximately 30% of the electricity produced by SaskPower. The other 70% is produced primarily through thermal (coal fired) generation.

Rural electrification began as an issue in 1929 at which time the Saskatchewan Power Commission was formed through a Legislative Act. At that time there were only ten farms that had electricity, and customer rates varied greatly from community to community. By 1948 over 1,500 farm customers were being served. 1961 saw the completion of rural electrification with over 58,000 farms using 90,000 kilometres of single wire line. In 1988 the 355 kilometre Athabasca transmission line was completed. Three small hydro plants, known as the Athabasca Hydro system provided the source for operating the transmission line.

The operation of generating plants and transmission lines requires in-house maintenance on an ongoing basis. SaskPower and the Government of Saskatchewan operate a fully integrated power company and also develops and constructs its own plants and transmission lines. During the capital construction phase, in-house construction workers and equipment are involved. A large number of subcontractors are also engaged to assist in project work.

SIC Codes
000000869 - Electric system generation, transmi