Several environmental organizations and concerned citizens have launched a court challenge against the Saskatchewan government to stop its plan to extend the life of the province's coal fired power plants.Citizens for Public Justice, the Saskatchewan Environmental Society, and three individuals from Saskatchewan and Manitoba filed an application for judicial review. They argue the government's decision to keep three coal plants operating until 2050 is “unlawful.” .Safeway removes Alberta flag from Medicine Hat store after complaint.The plants were previously scheduled to close by 2030."Coal is the dirtiest source of energy that we have. We argue that it has no place in any electricity grid in Canada," stated Maryo Wahba, a Climate Justice Policy Analyst at Citizens for Public Justice. She emphasized that "Phasing out coal isn't just policy, it's also a moral imperative.".The lawsuit targets a June 18 announcement by Crown Investments Corporation Minister Jeremy Harrison, who told SaskPower employees of the province's decision. This move delays the planned shutdowns meant to help meet Canada's climate goals. The federal government aims to cut Canada's greenhouse gas emissions to 40% below 2005 levels by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050..OLDCORN: Trump should slap '10% tithe’ on Canada to protect Christianity.The affected plants are the Shand and Boundary Dam stations near Estevan, and the Poplar River station outside Coronach. The groups want an interim stay placed on the extension until a full judicial review occurs.The plaintiffs claim the government made the decision without sufficient public consultation. .They say it bypassed necessary processes like an environmental assessment. "The Government has not outlined any future process to determine whether such an extension is in the public interest ... They simply made the decision. It is final, and therefore, ripe for judicial review," states their court filing.The lawsuit argues the extension violates federal clean energy regulations. .Saskatoon approves permit for US Christian artist Sean Feucht’s concert, mayor ‘deeply concerned’.It also contends the decision threatens the safety of future generations under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.Additionally, it claims the move harms Canada's reputation as a climate conscious nation.Robert Halliday, vice-president of the Saskatchewan Environmental Society, insists alternatives exist. ."There are other options for the province," said Halliday. "Thus far SaskPower has not been really on board with taking those opportunities. Renewable power is the way forward for Saskatchewan."Currently, coal provides 41% of Saskatchewan's electricity generation, according to the Canadian Energy Regulator. .Taxpayers Federation calls for cuts to Sask arts sponsorships, funds 'Baby Back B*tch' music video.Natural gas accounts for 44%, while hydro, wind, and solar combined make up 15%. The province has no operating or under construction nuclear plants..However, they are in the process of getting approval for a small modular nuclear reactor.In his June letter, Harrison said Saskatchewan remains committed to net zero energy by 2050. Harrison pointed out that coal power is needed while future nuclear plants are developed.The first hearing for the case is scheduled for August 12.
