A dragline works in coal pits in front of the SaskPower Shand Power Station south of Estevan, Sask. (Troy Fleece/The Canadian Press)

By Canadian Press

Feds announce funding for coal transition in Alberta, Saskatchewan

Jun 28, 2019 | 2:00 PM

NISKU, Alta. – The federal government is announcing projects to help western workers and communities dependent on coal mining to become less reliant on the industry.

Natural Resources Minister Amarjeet Sohi says nine grants for organizations in Alberta and Saskatchewan will support skills training and diversification.

“”As we build a clean energy future, our government is committed to leaving no worker and no family behind,” said Sohi. “The projects announced today will support coal workers and their communities through skills development and economic diversification activities, creating new economic growth opportunities.”

The grants, totalling nearly $4.5 million, are part of a five-year, $35-million Coal Transition Initiative announced in the 2018 budget.

The money will fund four planning, training and research programs in Alberta and five in Saskatchewan.

very high risk as of saturday night

Special Air Quality Statement issued across Alberta as wildfire smoke from B.C. rolls in

19h ago

talks at monday's council meeting

Council to discuss next step in permanent shelter saga

May 11, 2024

doubled in federal budget 2024

Increase to volunteer fire fighter tax credit lauded by Penhold fire chief

May 11, 2024

Federal and provincial regulations will see coal-fired power generation phased out by 2030.

Coal-fired power plants are some of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases in Canada.