Saskatchewan’s Crown corporations are spending millions on locally made steel, securing hundreds of jobs while working on critical infrastructure projects.
Recent purchases include thousands of pounds of steel and more than 125 kilometres of pipe from Regina-based EVRAZ Steel, part of the government’s push to prioritize purchasing Canadian materials over American because of the trade war with President Donald Trump.
Crown Investments Corporation Minister Jeremy Harrison said the strategy protects the province’s economy and workers.
“The Government of Saskatchewan will always stand up for Saskatchewan's interests, focusing on pragmatic and sensible solutions, while protecting our jobs, economy, and residents," said Harrison.
"By prioritizing the purchasing of local steel for SaskPower and SaskEnergy infrastructure projects, we are helping to keep over 400 hardworking Saskatchewan people on the job right here in Regina."
SaskPower has secured up to 10,000 tons of steel from EVRAZ, which is enough to cover three years of work, for building transmission towers and grid upgrades.
Meanwhile, SaskEnergy purchased 125 kilometres of steel pipe through Gateway Tubulars for the Aspen Power Station, a new natural gas plant near Lanigan.
Since 2019, SaskEnergy has sourced $79 million in steel directly from EVRAZ or through suppliers.
EVRAZ Canada Senior Vice-President Don Hunter called the purchases a vote of confidence.
“EVRAZ Canada has been a proud part of Saskatchewan’s economy for nearly 70 years,” said Hunter.
“The commitment we are seeing today from the provincial government is a strong signal that the Government of Saskatchewan recognizes the importance of domestic steel manufacturing—not only for EVRAZ’s workers who depend on it but for the broader economy that benefits from a strong and resilient supply chain.”
The Crowns partnerships extend beyond EVRAZ.
SaskPower is working with Saskatchewan fabricators Brandt and JNE Welding to build steel structures, creating a completely local supply chain.
United Steelworkers Local 5890 President Mike Day said the investments ease some anxieties for workers amid the trade war.
"The United Steelworkers have been at the forefront of fighting for our jobs and for our industry," said Day.
"When hearing of commitments like this from the Saskatchewan government, it eases some of the uncertainty our members have been facing.“
Broader spending data highlights the Crowns local focus.
In the first three quarters of 2024–25, the sector awarded $1.2 billion to Saskatchewan suppliers, including $92 million to indigenous-owned businesses.
Harrison added the province is working with industry groups to strengthen local companies capacity and competitiveness.
The Aspen Power Station project, a 370-megawatt facility set to open in 2027, underscores the demand for Saskatchewan steel.
