Manitoba launches affordable energy plan with focus on wind generation

Article content

Manitoba has unveiled its Affordable Energy Plan, aiming to create a sustainable energy future while keeping rates low, Premier Wab Kinew, Finance Minister Adrien Sala, and Environment and Climate Change Minister Tracy Schmidt announced Friday.

Article content

“We are giving you the freedom to make climate-friendly choices by making those choices more affordable,” Kinew said. “Building more energy capacity starts with a new government-to-government partnership in wind, the best source of new clean energy.”

This plan marks the first formalization of Indigenous-owned, utility-scale electricity generation in Manitoba, establishing partnerships with Indigenous nations while maintaining Manitoba Hydro as a public entity.

“Manitoba has some of the lowest energy costs in the country, thanks to decades of investment in Manitoba Hydro’s clean energy grid and skilled workforce,” Sala noted. “Now it’s time to build on our advantage to ensure we have low rates, good jobs and clean energy for years to come.”

Article content

Key components of the plan include:

– An Indigenous loan-guarantee program to support First Nations and Métis participation in wind generation
– Refurbishment of Manitoba Hydro generating stations to unlock up to 200 megawatts of power
– Improved processes for large grid connections to align with economic development goals
– Strengthened energy codes for homes to promote long-term savings
– Enhanced oversight of the oil and gas sector to ensure environmental safety
– Installation of new public electric vehicle chargers operated by Manitoba Hydro
– A focus on energy security with stronger procurement protections

“Our plan supports Manitoba’s path to net zero emissions by 2050 and will help us protect our air, land and water for future generations,” Schmidt said.

For more details, visit manitoba.ca/energyplan.

Article content