Manitoba Hydro has revealed a new plan outlining a nine-year timeline for the full development of wind farms aimed at boosting its power generation capacity. The plan also includes the construction of gas-powered turbines in Brandon by 2030 to address concerns about meeting peak power demands during harsh winter conditions.
According to the recently published 2025 integrated resource plan, Manitoba Hydro aims to make an additional 1,760 megawatts of electricity available to consumers over the next decade through a mix of energy-saving initiatives and new infrastructure. This increase represents more than a quarter of the current generating capacity, which is around 6,400 megawatts under optimal conditions.
Scott Powell, the communications director at Manitoba Hydro, expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the planned gas turbines in Brandon to prevent power shortages during peak winter periods. Powell emphasized the corporation’s commitment to providing reliable, safe, and affordable energy supply to Manitobans.
The integrated resource plan includes strategies to enhance existing hydroelectric plants to generate an extra 25 megawatts by 2029, as well as the construction of three new natural gas turbines in Brandon capable of producing 750 megawatts by 2030. Additionally, there are plans for a five-megawatt battery storage project by 2034 and the completion of new wind farms by Indigenous-led private companies by 2035, expected to generate 600 megawatts in ideal conditions.
Moreover, the plan outlines energy-saving measures totaling 860 megawatts to reduce peak electricity demand during extreme weather conditions. A recent assessment by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation highlighted Manitoba Hydro’s capability to manage mid-winter power shortages for the next four years due to power-sharing agreements with North Dakota and Minnesota, although these contracts are set to expire in 2030.
The Public Utilities Board will review Manitoba Hydro’s integrated resource plan following concerns raised by the Consumers Coalition, which represents various groups including consumers, seniors, Indigenous individuals, and low-income residents. The coalition aims to ensure the plan considers factors such as climate change, technological advancements, and energy efficiency opportunities to meet future energy needs effectively.