The government of the Canadian province of Manitoba has directed Manitoba Hydro to redirect 500MW of expiring electricity export contracts to support infrastructure projects within Canada.
Premier Wab Kinew announced the initiative to bolster nation-building efforts, with a focus on projects such as the Kivalliq hydro-fibre link, which will receive 50MW of the redirected power.
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The Kivalliq hydro-fibre link infrastructure project intends to provide power and telecommunications to northern communities.
The development aims to reduce reliance on diesel fuel and create economic opportunities by powering local mines.
Kinew stated: “Manitoba is a province of builders, and we are stepping up to help build our nation as we weather the economic uncertainty we are all facing right now.
“There is no better time to be partnering with other Canadian provinces and territories to build the infrastructure we need for a strong domestic economy.”
Premier Kinew emphasised the importance of collaboration with the northern territory of Nunavut, the Inuit-owned Nukik corporation and other partners to advance the project and stimulate economic and cultural growth.
Nukik CEO Anne-Raphaëlle Audouin stated: “This commitment by the province of Manitoba is true nation-building that makes Canada stronger.
“Working together, we can unlock sustainable economic development opportunities, build stronger communities and support Arctic sovereignty and security. We look forward to working in partnership to build a more connected Canada.”
In a related development, Canada has extended its target for achieving a net-zero electricity grid from 2035 to 2050.
This decision follows the release of its finalised Clean Electricity Regulations (CER) and was influenced by feedback from provinces and energy industry stakeholders.
