October 4, 2023 – Saskatchewan Polytechnic is proud to announce the opening of a state-of-the-art
energy and resources lab at the Moose Jaw campus, thanks to a $1.35 million investment
from PrairiesCan and SaskPower. The net zero 1,000 square foot lab is a hub for energy-related
applied research and training programs, with a focus on sustainable energy technologies,
smart grids and energy-efficient home construction.
The investment from PrairiesCan and SaskPower is a significant step forward for Sask
Polytech and the energy sector in Saskatchewan. PrairiesCan’s investment of $1 million
through the Regional Innovation Ecosystems program was used to purchase equipment
to train the next generation of energy professionals. SaskPower’s contribution of
$350,000 was used to build the net zero lab at Moose Jaw campus and highlights the
importance of the energy sector in Saskatchewan and the need for sustainable energy
solutions.
“We are thrilled to receive this investment from PrairiesCan and SaskPower to open
our new energy and resources lab,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Saskatchewan
Polytechnic. “This new lab and equipment will allow us to expand our research and
training capabilities in the energy sector and to develop innovative solutions for
a sustainable future. The energy and resources lab allows for practical and applied
learning opportunities for students in the School of Mining, Energy and Engineering
Technologies and in the School of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Sustainability.”
“Harnessing Canada’s renewable energy potential is critical in meeting our future
power needs and taking steps that help us meet net-zero emissions, said the Honourable
Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan. “There are opportunities for business growth
and innovation across the Prairies in this sector and our Government is committed
to investing in the training, research and development needed to support students
and industry in advancing renewable energy innovations for years to come.”
“The electricity industry is in a period of immense transformation, one that requires
training and innovation,” says Tim Eckel, SaskPower vice-president of Energy Transition
and Asset Management. “The learnings that will come out of this new energy and resources
lab will help move this innovation forward, and SaskPower is excited to play a role
in fostering discovery and research in our province.”
Through this new lab, Sask Polytech is working on developing curriculum and training
for alternative energies such as solar, geothermal, wind, biomass and biofuels. The
lab includes alternative energy learning systems and equipment that will increase
Sask Polytech’s research capacity in the energy sector and assist our instructors
in training a skilled workforce that will meet evolving industry requirements.
“The investment from PrairiesCan and SaskPower highlights the importance of sustainable
energy solutions and the role that Sask Polytech plays in developing the next generation
of energy professionals,” says Dr. Rosia. “We are excited to work with our partners
to drive innovation and economic growth in Saskatchewan.”
Sask Polytech is grateful for the support of PrairiesCan and SaskPower in the development
of this cutting-edge energy and resources lab. This investment will help to ensure
that Saskatchewan remains at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions and that
our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the
energy sector.
Being a member of an international network of post-secondary institutions, Sask Polytech
is a signatory to the SDG Accord, a global initiative to further the United Nation (UN)’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This new lab and equipment contributes to the realization of SDG goals 4, 9, 7 11
and 13. Goal seven is to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern
energy for all. Continuing our commitment to the SDGs will ensure that all learners
have the opportunity to succeed and develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values
that will allow them to contribute to a society that is at the heart of the global
agenda.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic is signatory to the SDG Accord. Sustainable Development Goal alignment is one of the ways Sask Polytech is leading the rise of polytechnic education.
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