Science, Technology, Energy and Mines

Hydro Power

Sources of clean, renewable energy are a key advantage to Manitoba in meeting greenhouse gas emission targets and in positioning the province as a leader in environmentally-friendly technology.

The Pembina Institute, a leading Canadian environmental think-tank, has named Manitoba Hydro the top performer among Canadian utilities in the effort against climate change.

Approximately ninety-six per cent of the province’s electricity is hydro powered. Manitoba currently produces a surplus of hydro power and exports half of its electricity, mostly to customers in the United States. These exports are helping to reduce enormous quantities of greenhouse gases – about 10 megatonnes annually.

Selkirk Conversion

In 2003, the Manitoba Hydro Selkirk Generating Station was converted from coal to natural gas. The switch reduced greenhouse gas emissions by almost 200,000 tonnes annually and made Manitoba almost coal-free.

Low-Impact Dams

Manitoba Hydro’s Wuskwatim Generating Station, which began construction in 2006, is representative of a new generation of low-impact dams. Being built in partnership with Manitoba First Nations, the plant will require less than one-half square kilometre of new land to be flooded. The multi-year construction project will create jobs and new economic development opportunities for Manitoba’s Aboriginal citizens.

Reducing Global CO₂ through Exports in addition to CO₂ Reductions from Existing Exports

The Provinces of Manitoba and Ontario are exploring the possibility of expanding transmission capacity through an east-west power grid. This effort would be an important step toward a national energy grid, contributing to Canada’s energy security while preventing millions of tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions though the replacement of Ontario’s coal-powered plants. Manitoba has the potential to bring more renewable energy online in the future to fulfill the need for clean energy nationally and internationally.

back to top