Place-based Power Production Deliberations in Saskatchewan: Engaging Future Sustainability 

Abstract

This article reports research results from two day deliberative focus groups in three Saskatchewan communities addressing power production planning, in the context of climate change and sustainability. Mixed methods included pre and post-focus group surveys, coding and analysis of discussions, and the creation by each focus group of a strategy for sustainable power production in the future. Results of comparative case study analysis provide strong support for renewables and illustrate place based differences.All communities strongly supported wind, solar and hydroelectricity. Estevan, located in the south of the province in proximity to coal, oil and gas production and coal power generating plants supported coal, and coal with carbon capture and storage (CCS). Saskatoon (situate in the middle of the province) and Regina (the center of government and between the other two) stressed the importance of engaging the public in decision making, education, providing information, and the importance that all costs, risk, benefits across the entire lifespan of the power production source be considered. In contrast, Estevan was concerned about the cost implications of power production source choice across the entire socio-economic system, including the social cost of job loss on the welfare system. Public participation in decision making in Estevan was not a priority. The reflexivity of the focus groups in Estevan brought closer together divergent views and increased support for coal and coal with CCS.