Manitoba Hydro’s strategy: Deny, deny, deny

Manitoba Hydro is employing a strategy of denial and dismissal when it comes to alternative energy sources. In an attempt to secure a $3 billion deal for gas turbines, Hydro assures the public that they will only be used infrequently. However, they simultaneously warn of an energy supply crisis by 2030. The company claims past peak events were handled without issue, importing power from the U.S. when needed. Yet, older turbines in Brandon have failed recently, suggesting poor maintenance.

Hydro has opted to purchase excess wind power from the U.S. Instead of developing privately-funded wind farms that would provide cheaper energy, they are importing wind power. They are also denying the benefits of decentralized renewable energy systems, such as wind and solar, for the southern grid. Hydro has not given rural municipalities the tax revenue or land rent from wind farms, nor have they acknowledged the job opportunities that would arise from a thriving wind industry.

The rural municipalities near the St. Leon Wind Farm have received over $16 million in income from the wind farm and about the same in landowner compensation. This significant financial benefit has been denied by Hydro, which instead promotes the use of gas turbines. The Public Utilities Board hearings have heard numerous submissions questioning the rush to gas turbines, with an independent technical analysis suggesting that Hydro’s plan is biased and not technically viable. Despite this, Hydro continues to deny the value of wind energy and explore alternative solutions.