Innovation, Science and Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne on Monday announced a $100-million investment through the Strategic Innovation Fund to support BHP’s $7.5-billion potash project.
The mine, located in Jansen, Saskatchewan, is expected to generate the lowest direct emissions of any potash mine in the world. Through this project, BHP would significantly minimise the carbon footprint of the mine, improve worker safety and implement technology to further reduce emissions from mine operations.
"Potash is a critical and strategic resource in the global agricultural industry, and we are pleased to partner with BHP on this project to bring strong economic benefits to Saskatchewan. This project will lead to the creation of hundreds of well-paying jobs for Canadians while also encouraging green initiatives in the mining industry,” said Champagne.
BHP anticipates the mine to be operational by 2026, with an initial production capacity of 4.3-million to 4.5 million tonnes a year of potash, increasing Canada's production of this critical mineral by nearly 22% and making it one of the top producers in the world.
Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson added that the Jansen mine was the first major potash mine in more than 50 years.
"Critical minerals are the building blocks of the low-carbon economy, and as the world moves toward net zero by 2050, demand for materials like potash will only increase. Through a historic investment in this project . . . we are supporting economic growth, enhanced sustainability and the creation of jobs. That's good news for our environment and good news for Saskatchewanians."