WEYBURN – Enbridge’s proposed Seven Stars Energy Project passed a major hurdle after the Rural Municipality (RM) of Weyburn removed the 45-metre height restriction on wind turbines. During their regular meeting on May 7, council gave second and third reading to the bylaw amendment.
But RM of Weyburn Reeve Bud Grohn told Â鶹´«Ã½AV, “The process is not finished."
In a prepared statement on May 8, Reeve Grohn said, "I want to make it clear that I am not against projects such as Enbridge's Seven Stars Wind. Turbine Facility but as Reeve of the Weyburn RM it is my duty to ensure that due process is done. Due process holds legislators to the fact that they must not be unfair to the people. As Reeve I am required to represent the ratepayers of the RM of Weyburn, not the City of Weyburn, not the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce and not the Economic Development Board. I was elected to represent and act in the best interests of the ratepayers of the RM of Weyburn. I will do my best to ensure the proper procedure and processes are completed in this proposed project regardless of opposition. It is my duty."
Enbridge welcomed the bylaw amendment, saying it now aligns with bylaws in other Saskatchewan jurisdictions.
“Having a new bylaw in place is one step in a robust public evaluation process for the proposed Seven Stars Energy Project that includes development permit applications and provincial environmental review, both of which allow for significant public input and engagement,” said Alex McNichol, director power business development with Enbridge in an email on Wednesday.
“During our ongoing engagement with the community, there’s been growing recognition of the need for economic development and investment in the region to diversify the local economy and help create a more vibrant community,” said McNichol. “As we advance the Seven Stars Project, we will work with the RMs and City of Weyburn as well as continuing to engage in respectful dialogue with area residents with the objective of investing more than $500 million in this exciting renewable energy project.”
A local grassroots group calling itself No Weyburn Windmills voiced strong opposition to the wind turbines, citing concerns about environmental degradation, wildlife impacts, and potential health risks.
A public hearing was held on April 29 after council gave the bylaw amendments first reading on April 4.
The City of Weyburn council formally supported the $500 million Seven Stars Energy Wind Project during their regular council meeting on April 28.
The $500-million wind energy project, set to be built in the RMs of Weyburn and Griffin, is expected to bring substantial long-term economic and social benefits to the region. The 200-megawatt (MW) development will operate over a 30-year lifespan, generating millions in annual tax revenue for local municipalities.
Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and wrap up in 2027. Enbridge estimates the project will employ an average of 100 workers during that period, with a strong emphasis on local hiring. Labour spending alone is projected at $75 million.
Story updated to add additional comments from Reeve Grohn.
