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Saskatchewan’s Q1 Update Turns Budgeted Surplus Into $349 Million Deficit

The outlook reflects weaker SaskPower earnings after the province removed the federal carbon levy from electricity bills.

Saskatchewan Minister of Finance Jim Reiter, pictured, will speak on the government of Saskatchewan's 2025-26 first quarter report today.

Overview

  • The province now forecasts 2025–26 revenue of $20.9 billion against expenses of $21.2 billion.
  • Revenue is $172 million below budget, including a $163 million decline in SaskPower net income linked to the levy change.
  • Expenses are $189 million higher than planned, with an $80 million increase for wildfire response and $115 million more for pensions.
  • Non-renewable resource revenue is projected to fall by about $30 million due to lower oil prices and a stronger Canadian dollar.
  • Officials say finances remain stable, project a 14.5% net debt-to-GDP ratio, continue talks with Ottawa on industrial carbon pricing, and plan to formalize wildfire funding by special warrant on Aug. 25.