Manitoba Hydro’s proposal to expand its gas-powered generating station in Brandon faced criticism last week after the company disclosed power output reductions during extremely cold periods. The $3 billion project aims to install three new natural gas turbines alongside the existing pair, boosting the province’s electricity capacity by 750 megawatts by 2030 to prevent winter power shortages.
As part of its broader plan to make 1,760 megawatts of electricity available in the next decade, Manitoba Hydro is under scrutiny by the Public Utilities Board through a series of public hearings. During a recent hearing, the utility admitted to lowering the maximum power output at the Brandon plant during three of the last 10 winter peak usage periods.
In response to inquiries from environmental advocates, including the Manitoba Climate Action Team, Hydro acknowledged the reduced reliability of natural gas turbines during severe cold spells, contrary to its previous claims. Critics argue for greater investment in renewable energy sources like wind farms and solar power, questioning the reliance on fossil fuels.
Hydro’s 10-year strategy outlines plans for new gas turbines, 5 megawatts of battery storage by 2034, 600 megawatts of wind energy by 2035, and energy efficiency measures totaling 860 megawatts. Despite concerns raised, Hydro defended the performance of the aging Brandon gas turbines, emphasizing operational challenges and the need for maintenance and upgrades.
The ongoing Public Utilities Board hearings on Hydro’s energy plan are scheduled to continue until early September, addressing the company’s proposed developments and the concerns raised by various stakeholders.