Even with the projected phase-out of coal-fire electricity generation, the Province’s electricity generation emissions factor will still be over 6 times higher than Ontario’s current factor, 22 times higher than BC’s current factor, and over 200 times higher than Quebec’s current factor by 2050. This eventual, slight decarbonisation of the electrical grid cannot be relied on for reaching Saskatoon’s energy use and emissions reduction targets.
As one of the sunniest cities in the country, Saskatoon is a prime candidate for solar energy production. Solar photovoltaic systems are easily installed on existing rooftops of residential and ICI buildings, as canopy structures over parking lots, or as ground-mounted units. A 1kW solar system in Saskatoon produces about 1,350 kWh annually.
Thermal and electrical energy production that currently relies on natural gas can be shifted to Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) sources. RNG is produced from decomposing organic materials like food, agricultural waste, wastewater, and manure. Methane capture from landfills can be upgraded to RNG, and organic materials can be processed in anaerobic digestion facilities to provide gas to upgrade to RNG. Once upgraded, RNG can be used exactly like natural gas.