Manitoba-Ontario hydropower plan moves closer

Ontario and Manitoba are proceeding with a detailed technical study of plans for Manitoba to export power to its eastern neighbour.
Named the Clean Energy Transfer Initiative, the project would see Manitoba build a hydroelectric station in Northern Manitoba. A transmission line would also have to be built to carry the energy into Ontario.
The technical study is to include detailed engineering and cost analyses. First Nations also have to be consulted, and there needs to be a more detailed analysis of the project’s overall economics.
The initiative is seen as one way that Ontario could meet its chronic electricity shortage. According to a Manitoba government press release, the province has the potential to generate 5,000 MW in new hydro sites that could be developed economically, “and with minimal environmental impact.”
The proposed energy transfer is also being seen as the first step in developing a national east-west electricity grid, which would provide greater national energy security.
Manitoba Hydro, which is spearheading the project, have begun studies for the economics, and have begun organizing the fieldwork for environmental and technical studies. A spokesperson said they will be most likely be issuing a request for proposals to do the studies, but no dates for doing so have been set yet.
For the Clean Energy Transfer Initiative study group’s full report see www.energy.gov.on.ca