Manitoba Hydro's 10-Year Strategy to Boost Power Capacity by 1,760 MW

Post by : Mina Rahman

Manitoba Hydro is embarking on a significant journey to increase its electricity output by 1,760 megawatts over the next ten years—a substantial boost that represents over 25% of its existing capacity—by implementing new infrastructure alongside energy conservation measures.

The Crown corporation disclosed its integrated resource plan on Thursday, revealing measures designed to avert potential energy shortages that could arise as soon as winter 2029.

The initiative aims to bring on board 900 megawatts of new generation capacity by 2035, featuring key projects such as the installation of three natural gas turbines in Brandon, wind farms set up by Indigenous-led enterprises, upgrades to current hydro facilities, and a pilot project focusing on a five-megawatt battery storage system.

In addition to boosting power generation, Manitoba Hydro intends to roll out energy-saving strategies accounting for 860 megawatts, aimed at lessening peak electricity demand during significant cold or heat events. Customers may receive incentives for voluntarily decreasing their electricity usage during high-demand episodes.

Scott Powell, the communications director for Hydro, noted, “By managing peak load effectively, we can cater to more customers without excessive new capacity additions.”

NDP cabinet minister Adrien Sala emphasized that any variable-rate initiatives would be optional, specifically tailored to reduce energy costs for consumers. Such programs would require approval from the Public Utilities Board before they could be implemented.

However, some environmental advocates have voiced concerns. Laura Cameron from Manitoba’s Climate Action Team objected to the heavy reliance on natural gas turbines, asserting that Hydro should concentrate on achieving heightened energy efficiency targets and larger-scale battery storage as a complement to wind energy.

In response, Sala acknowledged that battery storage remains in its developmental stages and is currently too expensive for fast implementation, yet Manitoba Hydro plans to carefully expand its use to enhance grid dependability while keeping energy costs within reach.