The right plan for reliable energy

Manitoba Hydro's long-term energy plan, currently under review by the Public Utilities Board, aims to ensure reliable electricity for the province while maintaining affordable rates. The plan proposes adding over 1,700 megawatts of new capacity to the energy system, with a focus on addressing growing electricity demand and peak period shortages.

The proposal includes three new combustion turbines at Brandon Generating Station, adding 750 megawatts of dispatchable capacity. Critics argue that this plan overlooks alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, and battery storage. However, proponents argue that these technologies do not perform the same functions as combustion turbines.

Combustion turbines are specifically designed to provide backup power during peak demand and extreme cold weather conditions when wind and solar generation are less reliable. Wind power, while important, cannot reliably meet the high demand during extreme weather events. Studies of various energy options using advanced modeling software have shown that solar and battery storage are less effective in Manitoba's harsh winter conditions.

Manitoba Hydro's Brandon combustion turbines already have a high start-up reliability of 91%, despite being over two decades old. The new turbines proposed under the plan are expected to provide even higher reliability. Critics have also raised concerns about the type of turbines being proposed, but proponents argue that lower-efficiency turbines are chosen as they only operate during peak demand periods, minimizing costs without sacrificing reliability.

Manitoba Hydro's long-term plan maintains its commitment to a clean and renewable energy system, with 97% hydroelectric power currently in the grid. The plan balances the need for clean energy with the necessity of reliable backup generation, ensuring that Manitoba's electricity rates remain among the lowest in North America while providing a dependable power supply for residents and businesses.