Manitoba Hydro to Add 1,760 MW via Gas, Wind, and Energy Savings

Manitoba Hydro is set to increase electricity supply by 1,760 megawatts over the next decade — more than a quarter of its current capacity — through a mix of new infrastructure and energy-saving initiatives.

The Crown corporation revealed details of its integrated resource plan on Thursday, highlighting strategies to prevent a potential energy shortage in winter as early as 2029.

The plan aims to add 900 megawatts of new generation capacity by 2035. Key projects include three natural gas turbines in Brandon, wind farms developed by Indigenous-led companies, upgrades to existing hydroelectric plants, and a five-megawatt battery storage pilot project.

Alongside new power generation, Manitoba Hydro plans to implement 860 megawatts of energy-saving measures to reduce peak electricity demand during extreme cold or heat. Incentives may be offered to customers who voluntarily reduce electricity usage during high-demand periods.

Scott Powell, Hydro’s communications director, explained, “Shaving the peak load allows us to serve more customers without adding excessive new capacity.”

NDP cabinet minister Adrien Sala emphasized that any variable-rate programs would be optional and designed to lower energy costs for consumers. Regulatory approval from the Public Utilities Board would be required before such programs could begin.

However, environmental groups have raised concerns. Laura Cameron from Manitoba’s Climate Action Team criticized the reliance on natural gas turbines, arguing that Hydro should pursue stronger energy efficiency targets and larger-scale battery storage to complement wind power.

Sala responded that battery storage is still in early development and currently too costly to scale quickly, but Manitoba Hydro plans to cautiously expand its use to improve grid reliability while keeping energy affordable.