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Powering Saskatchewan’s sustainable future with the Bekevar Wind project
by RES | May 13, 2025 | Reading time: < 1 min
Saskatchewan has long relied on coal-fired power generation, contributing to carbon emissions and climate concerns. With federal mandates to phase out conventional coal by 2030, the province needed a sustainable energy alternative. At the same time, Indigenous communities soughtmeaningful participation in the clean energy economy, ensuring long-term benefits for their people. The challenge was to develop a large-scale renewable energy project that met environmental goals and empowered local communities economically.
Watch the video below to learn more about the Bekevar Wind Project, developed in partnership with Cowessess First Nation, showcasing how commercial energy companies and Indigenous communities can collaborate on decarbonisation and economic development.
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A collaborative model for clean energy and indigenous partnership
Bekevar Wind Farm, a 200MW project located in the rural municipalities of Hazlewood, Kingsley, and Cowessess First Nation reserve land, was developed, constructed and operated by RES in partnership with Cowessess First Nation.
Financing was secured through an innovative package, including a $173 million loan from the Canada Infrastructure Bank, $50 million from Natural Resources Canada, and $98 million from NORD/LB. These investments ensured the project could proceed despite supply chain and financial market challenges.
SaskPower will purchase the energy through a 25-year power purchase agreement, ensuring long-term sustainability. Construction began in May 2023, with operations commencing by the end of 2024.
Indigenous participation was central to the project. Cowessess First Nation, owning 17% of Bekevar, secured employment and training opportunities for community members while reinvesting project revenues into essential programs.
A green hub for growth
Bekevar Wind Farm is a landmark achievement in Saskatchewan’s clean energy transition. Beyond environmental benefits, the project fosters economic growth - creating jobs during construction and operations, providing land lease revenues to local landowners, and ensuring Cowessess First Nation receives a significant annual return. For Cowessess First Nation, this project represents more than just economic gain - it is a testament to Indigenous leadership in the renewable energy sector. With past experience in solar and wind projects, Cowessess First Nation is setting a precedent for Indigenous ownership and participation in Canada’s clean energy future.
200 MW
Zero-emission power supplied to Saskatchewan’s grid
100,000
The farm features 36 Nordex N155/5.X turbines, producing enough electricity to power the equivalent of 100,000 homes annually.
130,000 tonnes
130,000 tons of CO2 reduction annually, helping Saskatchewan meet federal emission reduction targets
2024
Construction began in May 2023, with operations commencing by the end of 2024.
As Indigenous people, we feel it is our duty to not only invest in clean energy but to place ourselves front and centre as leaders in this transition. Yotin (‘wind’ in Cree) plays an important role in our cultural ways of being, and we firmly believe this mighty spirit has many more teachings and blessings to bestow upon us all
Chief Erica Beaudin
Cowessess First Nation
Related resources
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