A new solar project led by George Gordon Developments Ltd. (GGDL) is set to bring clean energy and economic opportunity to southern Saskatchewan. The 32-megawatt Wicehtowak Solar project, located near the K+S Potash Canada Bethune mine site northwest of Regina, officially broke ground today with a sod-turning ceremony attended by Indigenous leaders, government representatives, and industry partners.
George Gordon First Nation is located near Punnichy, 150 km southeast of Humboldt.
The facility, owned and operated by Wicehtowak Solar Ltd., will supply power directly to K+S Potash under a 30-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The agreement was enabled by SaskPower’s Renewable Access Service (RAS), a new initiative that allows large industrial customers to purchase renewable power directly from independent producers, while still utilizing SaskPower’s transmission infrastructure.
What sets this project apart is its 100% Indigenous ownership — a requirement for participation under the RAS program. The initiative aligns with the provincial government’s goals of economic reconciliation and increasing Indigenous participation in the energy sector.
“Today’s announcement is an example of our government’s commitment to building and supporting mutually beneficial partnerships that will keep our province strong and growing,” said Jeremy Harrison, Minister Responsible for SaskPower. “This project is a step forward in energy development, economic reconciliation, and Indigenous leadership.”
GGDL CEO Don Ross highlighted the broader impact of the development.
“Wicehtowak Solar represents what’s possible when Indigenous leadership and industrial innovation come together,” he said. “This project will not only produce emissions-free power — it will generate opportunity and lasting value for George Gordon First Nation and beyond.”
K+S Potash Canada President Sam Farris echoed those sentiments.
“This initiative demonstrates how Indigenous-led renewable projects and strong partnerships can help industries such as ours decarbonize, while also providing economic benefits for future generations,” he said.
SaskPower President and CEO Rupen Pandya emphasized the utility’s commitment to evolving alongside its customers. “We recognize that the needs and priorities of our customers are changing. The RAS shows that SaskPower is adapting to support those needs, while advancing renewable power and reconciliation goals.”
Construction on the Wicehtowak Solar project is scheduled to begin later this summer, with completion and commissioning expected by late 2026. The project is supported by funding and collaboration from the Canada Infrastructure Bank, Natural Resources Canada, and Indigenous Services Canada.