{
  "id": 12095956,
  "title": "Keeping the lights on",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/05/keeping-the-lights-on",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-05T07:00:09.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Winnipeg Free Press",
    "slug": "winnipeg-free-press",
    "url": "https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/analysis/2026/10/05/keeping-the-lights-on"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Manitoba Hydro faces the challenge of providing reliable electricity during harsh winter months, when energy demand peaks and daylight hours are short. The utility has developed an integrated resource plan to ensure consistent power supply, even as renewable energy sources face limitations. Wind energy will play a vital role in Manitoba's future, with a focus on purchasing energy from new majority Indigenous-owned wind projects. However, wind generation is dependent on weather conditions and may not always provide sufficient power during peak demand. Batteries offer some backup power during winter peak conditions, but their current technology typically provides only a few hours of backup power. To meet Manitoba's energy demands, Manitoba Hydro has determined that gas combustion turbines are the only available option within the required timeframe to provide reliable, on-demand capacity during periods of peak demand. These turbines will operate only when needed, supporting renewable energy by providing dependable backup power when renewable generation is unavailable or unable to meet demand. Approximately 97% of Manitoba Hydro's electricity would continue to come from renewable hydroelectric generation, and the utility remains on its path toward net-zero emissions. The integrated resource plan also includes energy-saving measures, reducing demand by more than 800 megawatts, enough capacity to serve about 230,000 homes. Manitoba Hydro customers continue to pay among the lowest electricity rates in North America. Critics have questioned Manitoba Hydro's planning, often pointing to examples from other jurisdictions. However, Manitoba's energy challenges are unique, and the solutions must be tailored to the specific climate and demands faced by the region.",
  "summary": "Manitobans are hardy. We live, work and play in one of the harshest winter climates in the world. We’re used to the cold and the dark. We’re also used to […]",
  "key_points": [
    "Manitoba Hydro faces winter electricity demand challenge",
    "Wind energy to play vital role with Indigenous-owned projects",
    "Gas turbines needed for reliable backup power during peaks"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}