Feds support transition from coal-generated power in Saskatchewan and Alberta

$5.8 million to support a move to a clean economy. PHOTO: Western Economic Diversification Canada

SASKATOON, SasK. — To help move to a clean economy and away from coal, the Government of Canada announced it will be investing $5.8 million in funding to support 12 economic development, training and career support initiatives in Saskatchewan and Alberta.

“Making the transition away from coal and towards cleaner energy is necessary. It is good for our health, our environment, and our economy. However, helping coal workers and coal communities must be the priority in this transition,” said Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada, in a prepared statement. “The Government of Canada will continue to support western Canadians who are affected by the phase out of coal, ensuring that they have the resources they need to build stronger, resilient communities and create new opportunities.”

The funding comes from the Canada Coal Transition Initiative (CCTI), and includes:

• Over $1 million to the City of Estevan for feasibility studies and marketing activities, including economic assessments of a carbon capture natural gas facility and short line rail;
• $960,000 to projects led by the Town of Coronach to enhance main street areas and create a marketing strategy for communities in the Deep South Regional Partnership;
• Nearly $1.5 million to the Cactus Corridor Economic Development Corporation to identify economic development opportunities and promote investment readiness in the region around Hanna and Youngstown Alberta;
• $800,000 to Southeast College to establish a heavy equipment operator training program at its Estevan campus; and
• $677,880 to the United Mineworkers of America Local 7606 to establish a transition centre for coal workers in the Estevan and Coronach region.