SaskPower has announced a significant investment to upgrade power infrastructure in the Lanigan and Melfort regions, with the aim of increasing reliability and preparing for future energy demands. The $134 million initiative includes the construction of a new switching station near Lanigan and a new 230-kilovolt (kV) double-circuit power line stretching more than 100 kilometres.
The new transmission line will connect the planned Lanigan station to the existing Beatty Switching Station near Melfort, with a tap into SaskPower’s substation in Humboldt. This infrastructure is expected to be completed and in service by spring 2028.
“The existing infrastructure in this area was built in the 1950s,” said Joel Cherry, SaskPower spokesperson. “It’s nearing the end of its useful life, and with the amount of power moving through this region, especially from our Nipawin and E.B. Campbell hydro plants and from Manitoba Hydro, it’s critical that we upgrade to ensure continued reliability.”
The project is partially funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Green Stream, a joint initiative of the federal and provincial governments aimed at supporting sustainable infrastructure projects.
According to Cherry, the project is part of SaskPower’s broader efforts to modernize and expand the provincial power grid.
“We’re planning to build the line from the Beatty Switching Station, which is near Melfort, to an existing power line near the village of Jansen,” Cherry explained. “This is about reinforcing the system so we can ensure reliable service for customers throughout much of East Central Saskatchewan.”
A key focus of the project is early and ongoing engagement with rightsholders, landowners, communities, and other stakeholders. SaskPower is currently assessing potential routes for the new line and is actively seeking feedback on local priorities, environmental concerns, and land use.
“We’re in the early stages right now, looking to find a route for the line,” said Cherry. “We’re engaging with stakeholders, meeting with people in the area, and asking for their input. It’s a vital part of the process. We want to understand what’s important to them, what concerns they have, and how we can minimize potential impacts.”
The new infrastructure will require SaskPower to secure land for the switching station and easements for a new 40-metre-wide right-of-way along the transmission route. Cherry emphasized that local feedback will play a crucial role in shaping decisions before final routes are selected.
“There’s a number of ways for people to engage with us and ask questions,” he said. “Getting involved early means their thoughts can be considered before decisions are made. The further along we get, the less flexibility we have to accommodate new feedback.”
In the months ahead, SaskPower will continue its engagement efforts by hosting information sessions and working closely with communities in the project study area. Feedback gathered will help inform the development of route options, which will be shared in future consultation phases.
“We want to work together with Rightsholders and stakeholders to find the best overall route for the new power line and a suitable site for the switching station,” said Cherry. “This project is not just about building new infrastructure—it’s about building it the right way, with community input guiding us at every step.”
For more information or to participate in the engagement process, residents are encouraged to visit SaskPower’s website or contact their community relations team directly.