NDP push SaskPower to reconsider net metering program

The Saskatchewan NDP believes SaskPower should reconsider the suspension of the net metering program.

In the program, people could receive rebates for installing solar panels and a distribution credit for selling power back to the grid.

NDP Leader Ryan Meili said with all the sunshine in Saskatchewan, eliminating the program is a shortsighted move.

“We should be leading the way on this,” he said. “This should be a major industry here.”

The Crown utility is no longer accepting applications to the program after meeting capacity ahead of schedule. It is also raising eyebrows from solar companies, which were working with customers relying on it.

Meili believes the suspension sends mixed messages.

“This government (Sask. Party) has made promises about 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030 but when you’re putting the brakes on every avenue to actually get renewable energy, the likelihood of ever reaching that goal is nil,” Meili said.

The popularity of the program shows people in Saskatchewan have an appetite for renewable energy, according to Meili, who believes there’s a need for a more robust plan.

“We need to see a much more ambitious approach to a new business model for SaskPower that really takes full advantage of all the roofs, all the wind, all the sunshine, all the federal rebates,” Meili said.

The New Democrats have their own plan called Renew Saskatchewan which includes financing options for clean energy and retrofits.

— With files from 650 CKOM’s Brent Bosker