ESTEVAN – Representatives from Greenwood Sustainable Infrastructure (GSI) provided an update to Estevan city council on March 10 regarding the progress of the Iyuhána Solar Project, a large-scale renewable energy initiative to be built in the RM of Estevan.
Lana Taher, GSI’s project development lead, and Kyra Windrim, the company’s solar project co-ordinator, who works and resides in Estevan, outlined key milestones, permitting efforts and anticipated construction timelines for the 100-megawatt project, which is being developed in partnership with Ocean Man First Nation.
Project overview and timeline
Taher explained that the Iyuhána Solar Project, located approximately eight kilometres southwest of Estevan, will span about 550 acres and feature around 200,000 bifacial solar panels on a tracking system. The project’s permitting phase has been in development for 12-18 months, with permitting efforts now in the mid-to-late stages. GSI expects to secure full regulatory approvals by the end of the second quarter of 2025, with construction targeted to begin in early Q3.
The build-out is projected to take 12-18 months, requiring approximately 150 workers during construction. Once operational, the solar facility will generate power under a 25-year agreement with SaskPower, providing ongoing employment for two to five permanent operations and maintenance staff.
Taher highlighted Ocean Man First Nation’s involvement, noting their 10 per cent equity stake and history of supporting renewable energy projects. She emphasized the community’s role as advocates for sustainability and acknowledged their experience in operating solar facilities.
Community engagement and workforce development
Taher spoke about GSI’s engagement efforts, which have included an open house in September 2024 and an upcoming community information session scheduled for April 9 at Â鶹ÊÓƵeast College. These events provide opportunities for residents to learn more about the project, review environmental studies and discuss employment opportunities.
GSI has also partnered with Â鶹ÊÓƵeast College and the University of Regina to support workforce development through scholarships and research initiatives. The company plans to host job fairs in the second and third quarters of 2025 in Estevan and beyond to connect potential workers with construction and operations roles.
The project is expected to contribute to the local economy not only through direct job creation but also by attracting business to Estevan during the construction period.
Council questions and comments
Council members expressed enthusiasm for the project, describing it as an important development for the city and a positive step toward diversifying Estevan’s energy sector.
Coun. Shelly Veroba, who had attended the first open house, commended GSI for providing extensive information and making employment opportunities accessible to the community. She encouraged fellow councillors and residents to attend the upcoming session in April.
Coun. Brian Johnson remarked that the initiative was long overdue and welcomed SaskPower’s involvement as a key stakeholder. He noted the potential economic benefits for Estevan, particularly as an influx of workers and renewable energy investment could bring new opportunities for local businesses.
Council concluded the discussion by thanking Taher and Windrim for their presentation and acknowledging the busy period ahead for GSI as the project moves toward the construction phase.
For more on Iyuhána Solar Energy Facility, check its pages on the and .
