Saskatchewan Renewables: Interview with Economist Brett Dolter

In this special interview episode, we sit down with economist Brett Dolter to explore the future of clean energy in Saskatchewan and beyond. From the politics of power generation to the technical challenges of renewables in extreme cold, Brett offers a candid and insightful look at what it will take to transition to a greener grid.

Brett Dolter is an Associate Professor in the Department of Economics, University of Regina where he teaches courses in climate change policy, microeconomics, cost-benefit analysis, and ecological economics. Brett's research is focused on modelling the costs and consequences of climate and energy policy. Current research projects include analyzing the distributional impacts of carbon pricing in Canada; modelling the cost of decarbonizing the Canadian electricity system; and exploring public support for competing energy futures in Regina, Saskatchewan.

• The report on SaskPower vs fed regulations Dolter published here (PDF)

We discuss why Saskatchewan, despite its world-class solar and wind resources, lags behind provinces like Alberta in renewable adoption, and how monopoly structures and regulatory frameworks have slowed progress. Brett explains how reforming electricity rate structures could accelerate electrification, make rooftop solar more attractive, and help families save money in the long run.

The conversation also covers the engineering realities of renewable energy in cold climates—from wind turbines to heat pumps—and looks at innovations from around the world, including northern China, that could be adapted for the Prairies. Finally, Brett dives into the political dimensions of the energy transition, reflecting on public opinion, partisan divides, and the path forward for renewables in Saskatchewan.

This is an eye-opening discussion about the intersection of policy, technology, and economics—and why the choices made today will shape our energy future for decades to come.

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