Saskatchewan’s opposition politicians are taking aim at SaskPower’s decision to spend over $100,000 on internet services from Starlink. The expense was revealed in the province’s 2024–25 Crown corporation payee disclosure report released this week, which showed SaskPower paid $114,428 to Starlink Internet during the fiscal year.
The revelation has drawn criticism from New Democratic Party (NDP) MLA Erika Ritchie, who questioned why a provincial Crown corporation would rely on an American company rather than supporting local providers.
“We know that we have a world-class Crown corporation, SaskTel, that offers connectivity services. We’re wondering why this Crown has elected to go to a foreign company to receive services,” Ritchie said, also taking issue with Musk’s political ties in the United States.
SaskPower’s parent agency, the Crown Investments Corporation (CIC), defended the use of Starlink as a necessary measure to ensure safety and communication in remote parts of the province, pointing out that SaskTel’s network cannot reach these areas. In a written statement, the CIC noted that Starlink’s satellite service plays an essential role in maintaining connectivity for workers in isolated areas, especially for emergencies such as medical situations.
“Even with significant investments in broadband and 5G expansion, there are areas in Saskatchewan where SaskTel cannot provide cellular or internet service,” the statement read. “In these instances, including where life and safety could be at risk, arrangements are made to ensure employees have access to satellite services provided by Starlink.” (via CTV News)
Saskatchewan is not the first province to rely on Starlink for essential operations. Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, for instance, paid roughly $200,000 for Starlink service in 2024 as part of its communications program for remote sites. British Columbia is also a Starlink customer, as well as Quebec and Alberta.
While critics argue that relying on a U.S. billionaire’s company undermines Canadian technological sovereignty, supporters point out that no domestic provider can currently match Starlink’s reach and reliability in hard-to-access areas.
