SaskPower is planning to double renewable electricity generation capacity in Saskatchewan by 2030 in a bid to reduce carbon emissions.

The Canadian utility is planning to generate at least 60MW of solar power and 100MW of wind power by next year.

Besides solar and wind projects, the company also plans to invest in other renewables, such as biomass, geothermal and hydro.

The company has already carried out a geothermal technology pre-feasibility study to assess the potential of geothermal power generation in Saskatchewan area.

SaskPower intends to add another 1,600MW of wind power between 2019 and 2030.

Through its Net Metering programme, the corporation provides credits to customers who limit their usage of electricity and supports generating up to 100KW of renewable energy.

The company is currently evaluating its Net Metering programme in order to increase the number of customers who intend to produce solar power.

Minister responsible for SaskPower Bill Boyd said: "An objective of 50% renewable power by 2030 is ambitious, but I’m confident SaskPower can meet the target by taking an ‘all of the above’ approach to planning.

"That means a major expansion of wind power augmented by other renewables, such as solar, biomass, geothermal and hydro, to go along with the world leading Boundary Dam 3 carbon capture project and more natural gas generation.

"This is the framework for a responsible clean energy plan that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring Saskatchewan has a reliable, affordable supply of electricity for years to come."

Canadian Wind Energy Association president Robert Hornung said: "SaskPower’s new wind energy targets represent an important step forward for wind energy in Saskatchewan and will enable the province to capture more of its plentiful and cost-effective wind energy resources.

"An initial procurement of 100 MW of new wind energy in 2016, followed by a series of planned future procurements for additional wind energy, will attract significant interest and ensure a highly competitive process that will produce low cost clean electricity generation for Saskatchewan ratepayers."